Voice Surgery: Services and Recovery Time at Taipei City Hospital

Vocal cord surgery

My voice is very low and rough.
I hope to undergo surgery.
Does Taipei City Hospital provide vocal cord surgery services? If I have the surgery, how long will I need to rest afterward?

gladis, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/26

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology

Whether or not vocal cord surgery is needed depends on the size of the vocal cord polyp.
After the surgery, voice rest is required for 1 to 2 weeks.
To maintain vocal cord health, it is important to avoid irritating foods, stay well-hydrated, speak softly, and refrain from straining the voice.

Reply Date: 2005/10/26

More Info

Voice surgery, particularly for issues related to the vocal cords, is a specialized procedure that can address various conditions such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, or other abnormalities that may affect the quality of voice. In Taipei City, several hospitals offer these services, including Taipei City Hospital, which is known for its comprehensive ear, nose, and throat (ENT) department.

Regarding your specific inquiry about Taipei City Hospital, they do provide voice surgery services. However, the decision to undergo surgery is contingent upon a thorough evaluation by an ENT specialist. This evaluation typically includes a laryngoscopy, where the doctor examines your vocal cords using a small camera, and possibly other diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your voice issues.

If surgery is deemed necessary, the recovery process is crucial for optimal healing and voice restoration. Generally, after vocal cord surgery, patients are advised to follow a period of voice rest. This means refraining from speaking, whispering, or any vocal strain for about 1 to 2 weeks post-surgery. This rest period is vital as it allows the surgical site to heal properly and minimizes the risk of complications, such as scarring or further damage to the vocal cords.

In addition to voice rest, there are several post-operative care recommendations that can aid in recovery:
1. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential. Drinking plenty of water helps keep the vocal cords moist and promotes healing.

2. Avoid Irritants: It is advisable to avoid smoking, alcohol, and spicy foods, as these can irritate the throat and vocal cords.

3. Voice Therapy: After the initial recovery period, many patients benefit from voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist. This therapy can help in retraining the voice and ensuring proper vocal techniques are used to prevent future issues.

4. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with your ENT specialist are important to monitor your recovery and assess the healing of your vocal cords.

5. Gradual Return to Speaking: Once cleared by your doctor, gradually reintroducing speaking can help in adjusting back to normal vocal use without straining the vocal cords.

In summary, Taipei City Hospital does offer voice surgery services, and the recovery period typically involves 1 to 2 weeks of voice rest, along with other supportive measures to ensure a successful healing process. If you are considering this surgery, it is essential to consult with an ENT specialist who can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and needs.

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