What is Vocal Cord Paralysis?
Vocal cord paralysis is the condition in which one or both vocal cords lose their ability to move due to damage to their nerve connections. This can directly affect vital functions such as speaking, breathing and swallowing. The most common symptoms are hoarseness, a tired tone of voice and getting tired easily while speaking. In advanced cases, shortness of breath and a feeling of tightness in the throat may also be experienced.
If there is a sudden change in your voice, prolonged hoarseness or difficulty, an evaluation is definitely necessary. Our expert team performs voice analysis and if paralysis is diagnosed, we offer you a special solution plan. We provide professional service in this field.
What is Vocal Cord Paralysis Surgery?
Vocal cord paralysis surgery is a surgical procedure that aims to restore the voice to its function by bringing the paralyzed vocal cord closer to the midline. This operation aims to restore the voice of people who have difficulty speaking due to paralysis. The goal is to create a clearer, fuller and stronger voice tone; and also to eliminate the difficulty experienced during speech.
Since each individual’s voice structure is different, procedures are planned specifically for each individual. We successfully apply surgical techniques such as medialization thyroplasty and arytenoid adduction. We provide comprehensive services in this field, including preoperative evaluation, procedure process and follow-up.
Who Needs This Surgery?
Vocal cord paralysis surgery is usually needed by individuals who have unilateral vocal cord paralysis and have difficulty speaking. Individuals who become tired, have difficulty breathing, or whose voice is unintelligible or muffled while speaking can regain their voice with this procedure. Similarly, if shortness of breath becomes severe in bilateral paralysis, surgical intervention may become necessary.
The surgery not only improves the quality of the voice, but also increases the person’s self-confidence in their social and professional life. This intervention directly affects the quality of life, especially for individuals who use their voice professionally, such as teachers, artists, and presenters. If you are experiencing similar complaints, we plan your process together with a detailed examination.
Unilateral and Bilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis Surgeries
In cases of unilateral vocal cord paralysis, since the paralyzed vocal cord loses its function, complete closure cannot be achieved with the opposite vocal cord. In this case, the vocal cord is brought closer to the midline with techniques such as medialization thyroplasty or arytenoid adduction. In this way, the voice is clearer and stronger.
Bilateral vocal cord paralysis is a more serious condition because both vocal cords cannot move and air passage is severely restricted. In this case, respiratory-focused interventions are performed to open the airway. If necessary, surgical adjustments are made to preserve voice quality.
We determine which surgery is appropriate after analyzing your voice. We evaluate each case individually and apply the most appropriate surgical method for you. We provide safe and effective solutions in this field by using all the necessary techniques.
How is Vocal Cord Paralysis Surgery Performed?
The surgical procedure is planned according to the person’s vocal cord structure, the severity of the paralysis, and the needs. It is often performed under local anesthesia, so the patient can speak during the procedure and the voice quality can be checked instantly. In procedures such as medialization thyroplasty, silicone or special materials are placed on the vocal cord through a small incision on the side of the neck.
In some cases, this procedure is combined with arytenoid adduction. The surgery takes an average of 1 hour and you can be discharged the same day. We offer a comfortable operation process. We carry out the process completely under control with preoperative preparation, postoperative care and therapy support. We offer you special voice improvement solutions and help you regain your natural voice.
What Causes Vocal Cord Paralysis?
Vocal cord paralysis can have many causes. The most common causes are:
Nerve damage after thyroid surgery
Neck traumas or tumors
Viral infections affecting the nerves
Neurological diseases
Masses in the lungs or chest cavity
Sometimes, cases with unknown cause (idiopathic) can also be seen. Whatever the cause of paralysis, the important thing is to diagnose correctly and intervene on time. We provide expert evaluation in this field and create the most appropriate treatment plan for you with detailed voice analysis. We customize the process for you with surgery or alternative treatment options.
What are the symptoms of vocal cord paralysis?
Vocal cord paralysis usually first manifests itself with a significant change in voice quality. The most common symptoms include hoarseness, muffled voice, getting tired easily while talking, feeling short of breath, and difficulty swallowing. Especially in unilateral paralysis, the person feels that their voice sounds airy and inadequate when speaking.
In cases of bilateral paralysis, in addition to these symptoms, shortness of breath, a feeling of suffocation and occasionally respiratory distress may be experienced. Psychological effects such as a decrease in the quality of daily speech and withdrawal from social communication may also accompany this picture.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, do not delay the process. We clarify the situation with a specialist examination and offer personalized solutions to restore your voice to its former health. After the evaluation, we determine the most appropriate treatment method and provide service.
Difference Between Unilateral and Bilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis
Unilateral vocal cord paralysis is the immobilization of only one vocal cord. In this case, the vocal cord cannot reach the midline and complete closure cannot be achieved with the opposite vocal cord. As a result, hoarseness, difficulty speaking and shortness of breath occur. It is usually less risky and speech functions can be restored.
Bilateral vocal cord paralysis is the condition in which both vocal cords do not work. This is a serious condition that affects not only the voice but also breathing. It can cause vital problems such as a feeling of constriction in the throat and pauses in breathing during sleep.
We perform detailed voice analysis to understand which type of paralysis you have. We plan the process with surgical or alternative treatment options according to your needs. We provide you with special support with our expert staff.
How Is Vocal Cord Paralysis Diagnosed?
Vocal cord paralysis is diagnosed by an endoscopic examination performed by an otolaryngologist. During this procedure, the vocal cords are directly visualized and their movements are evaluated. If necessary, advanced examinations such as videostroboscopy, voice analysis, imaging methods (MRI, CT) and EMG (electromyography) may also be used.
In addition, the patient’s voice recording is listened to and the difficulties experienced during speech are observed. During this process, we make a definitive diagnosis with detailed examination and analysis. After diagnosis, we plan all treatment options specifically for the patient and offer safe and effective solutions.
What are the Treatment Methods for Vocal Cord Paralysis?
In the treatment of vocal cord paralysis, different methods are applied depending on the cause of the paralysis, its duration and the patient’s voice expectations. The main treatment methods are:
Voice therapy: It is applied to strengthen the vocal muscles, especially in newly developed and mild cases.
Injection treatment: Temporary filling material is applied to the paralyzed vocal cord and the vocal cord is brought closer to the midline.
Medialization thyroplasty: It is a surgical method that offers a permanent solution, the paralyzed vocal cord is supported.
Arytenoid adduction: The vocal cord is angularly repositioned.
Tracheotomy (in bilateral paralysis): It is a temporary or permanent intervention to open the airway.
The suitability of each method is determined according to the patient’s condition. We make the necessary assessment and plan the most appropriate treatment method together. We provide services in both surgical and therapeutic processes.
What is Vocal Cord Paralysis Surgery?
Vocal cord paralysis surgery is a surgical procedure that allows the vocal cord, which cannot move due to paralysis, to be brought closer to the midline to regain speech function. One of the most commonly used techniques is medialization thyroplasty. With this procedure, special material is placed under the vocal cord to make the voice stronger and clearer.
In some cases, arytenoid adduction is added to correct the angle of the vocal cord. The surgery is usually performed with local anesthesia and the patient speaks during the procedure to test the quality of the voice. The patient can be discharged the same day after the procedure, and the recovery process is fast and comfortable.
We provide services with advanced techniques in this field. We make special voice planning for you and provide permanent solutions with both surgical and voice therapy support. You can contact us immediately to get detailed information and get a quote from us.
Does Voice Therapy Work in Vocal Cord Paralysis?
In cases of vocal cord paralysis, voice therapy is a very effective method, especially for individuals who have one-sided paralysis. In order for the paralyzed vocal cord to take over the function of the other vocal cord and for breathing and voice production to become harmonious, support with therapy is essential. With exercises applied by therapists, the throat muscles are retrained and the person learns to use their voice more efficiently.
Surgery may not be necessary in every case. In mild cases or in the early stages after a stroke, voice therapy can help restore the voice. We plan this process with detailed analyses; if a non-surgical solution is possible, we prioritize it. We provide services with our expert voice therapists and accompany you in the process of returning to your natural voice.
How Long Does The Treatment Process Last?
The duration of treatment varies depending on the type and duration of vocal cord paralysis and the treatment method chosen. If voice therapy is preferred, the process is usually planned for 6 to 12 weeks. Voice quality improves step by step in this journey that begins with 1-2 sessions per week.
If surgical treatment is required, the first effects after the operation begin to be seen within a few days. The voice is expected to become more settled, stronger and more balanced within approximately 3–6 weeks. If necessary, post-surgical therapy support is also added.
Each individual’s voice structure is different. Therefore, instead of giving a fixed treatment period, we prepare the most suitable plan for you. We carry out the whole process with you step by step to restore your natural voice and offer result-oriented solutions.
Vocal Cord Paralysis Surgery in Turkey Cost 2025
As of 2025, vocal cord paralysis surgery prices are determined by many variables such as the technique to be applied, the material used, the patient’s voice structure and the center in which the procedure is performed. For example, if only medialization thyroplasty is to be performed, the price may be different, and if additional arytenoid adduction is to be performed, the price may be different.
In addition, post-operative voice therapy support, control processes and personal voice evaluation tests also affect the price. Therefore, it is best to provide pricing specific to each individual.
After a special evaluation, we offer you a clear price information. Get a price from us; let’s plan your process with a transparent, accessible and quality service guarantee. We carry out every stage required for a healthy voice with you.
Does Vocal Cord Paralysis Go Away on Its Own?
Some cases of unilateral vocal cord paralysis, especially if caused by nerve damage, may heal on their own within 3 to 6 months. However, if the nerve has been completely cut or irreversibly damaged, the likelihood of spontaneous recovery is low. Support with voice therapy throughout the process can speed up the natural recovery.
In cases that do not go away, surgical intervention may be necessary. Correct timing is very important at this point. Evaluation without delay directly affects the success of the treatment process. We provide expert evaluation on this subject and clarify for you what should be done in which case.
Does Voice Come Back After a Stroke?
Yes, the voice can be restored after a stroke in most cases. With the right intervention, timely treatment and personalized planning, the voice largely regains its former quality. It is often seen that the voice becomes fuller, clearer and more understandable thanks to surgeries and therapies performed especially in unilateral paralysis.
Although the full recovery process varies from person to person, in many patients, both voice and speech performance reach normal levels. We plan this process in the most accurate way with solutions specific to you and proceed with safe steps. We provide professional services to improve your speech quality and regain your communication power.