What is Vocal Cord Polyp Surgery?
Vocal cord polyps are soft masses that are usually benign but can seriously affect voice quality. These growths, which occur during speaking, singing, or professional vocal use, impair the clarity and power of the voice. They can be reduced in size with medical treatment and voice therapy in the early stages; however, if the polyp is large, has been present for a long time, or causes significant vocal cord vibration disturbances, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the polyp is removed using microsurgical techniques under microscope guidance. This method allows for intervention without damaging the vocal cord structure. After the surgery, a period of silence and rehabilitation is required for the voice to fully return to its former health.
Why Does a Vocal Cord Polyp Form?
Prolonged, loud speaking or shouting causes repetitive trauma to the vocal cords, which eventually leads to tissue swelling. This swelling can progress and develop into a polyp. Teachers, call center workers, theater actors, and singers are particularly at risk. Smoking, polluted air, alcohol consumption, reflux disease (reflux disease), where stomach acid flows back into the throat, and allergic reactions are also among the factors that trigger polyp formation. To maintain vocal cord health, it is crucial to correct unhealthy vocal habits early and avoid harmful environmental factors.
What are the symptoms of vocal cord polyps?
The most obvious symptom of a polyp is the loss of the voice’s original timbre. Hoarseness, muffled voice, cracking, or double-tongued voices are common symptoms. Inability to produce high-pitched sounds, easy fatigue when speaking, a constant feeling of fullness in the throat, and the need to clear the throat frequently may also occur. Some patients notice the change in their voice suddenly, while others experience symptoms gradually. If hoarseness persists for more than two weeks, medical attention is strongly recommended.
What is the difference between a polyp and a nodule?
While both conditions cause masses to form on the vocal cords, their structures and formation processes differ. Nodules usually appear symmetrically on both vocal cords and are hard-textured. They are more likely to develop as a result of prolonged vocal strain. Polyps, on the other hand, are usually located on a single vocal cord and are soft or edematous. Nodules are chronic, while polyps can sometimes develop even after short-term, intense vocal use. Furthermore, polyps generally cause more pronounced vocal changes.
How is a Vocal Cord Polyp Diagnosed?
The diagnostic process begins with a detailed examination by an otolaryngologist. The vocal cords are visualized using endoscopic methods. A fiberoptic endoscope or rigid endoscope allows for a precise determination of the polyp’s size, shape, and location. If necessary, a stroboscopy is used to examine the vocal cords’ vibrations. Voice analysis tests may also be performed to assess the functional status of the voice. Early diagnosis shortens treatment time and prevents permanent voice damage.
In Which Situations Is Surgery Required?
Initially, voice therapy and medical treatment are aimed at shrinking the polyp. However, if these methods fail to provide relief or if the polyp grows rapidly, surgical intervention is preferred. For professional voice users, surgery is also recommended if performance is severely compromised. Polyps that make daily speech difficult, create a breathy, weak voice, or cause vocal cord vibration problems are removed using microsurgical techniques. Contact us for a quote, and we will develop the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
How is Vocal Cord Polyp Surgery Performed?
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and under microscope guidance. The vocal cords are accessed through the mouth, without any incisions in the throat. Using microsurgical instruments, the polyp is carefully removed without damaging the vocal cords. This method both shortens recovery time and preserves the natural timbre of the voice. The surgery takes approximately 20–40 minutes. The patient can be discharged the same day, but a period of silence is required to maintain the voice’s sound.
Post-Operative Recovery Process
Absolute vocal rest is recommended for the first few days. It’s important to avoid using your voice, including whispering, during this period. Then, gradually resume speaking as directed by your doctor. Throughout the recovery process, habits that can irritate the vocal cords, such as smoking and alcohol, should be avoided. Voice therapy and specialized exercises are often added to the treatment to help your voice return to its original form. A full recovery can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks.
Is Vocal Cord Polyp Surgery Permanent?
Surgery completely removes the existing polyp, but there’s a risk of recurrence in the same area or on other vocal cords. Therefore, proper voice use, vocal hygiene, and avoidance of risk factors are crucial after surgery. The risk of recurrence increases with continued incorrect techniques, especially among those who use their voice professionally. Regular checkups and voice therapy minimize this risk.
How to Preserve Voice After Surgery?
During the recovery period, it’s important to drink plenty of water, avoid foods and drinks that irritate the throat, and avoid speaking loudly for extended periods. Whenever you experience vocal strain, take a break immediately and avoid habits that damage the vocal cords, such as shouting and whispering. Avoiding dusty and smoggy environments, treating any reflux problems, and regular vocal exercises are all effective in maintaining your voice.
Vocal Cord Polyp Surgery Prices 2025
Fees in 2025 will vary depending on the city, hospital or clinic where the surgery is performed, the surgeon’s experience, and the scope of the procedure. In some cases, voice therapy and follow-up sessions may also be included in the price. Contact us for a quote, and we will provide you with the most appropriate treatment and recovery plan.
Does vocal cord polyp cause voice loss?
A polyp forming on the vocal cords can cause significant changes in voice quality because it disrupts the vibration mechanism. Initially, this may manifest as a slight hoarseness or muffled appearance. However, as the polyp grows, the timbre of the voice changes, loss of power occurs, and some frequencies become inaudible. Especially in professional voice users, even a small polyp can significantly impact performance. Voice loss doesn’t always mean a complete loss of voice; sometimes, simply not being as clear, powerful, or flexible as before is considered a loss. If a polyp remains untreated for an extended period, permanent tissue changes can develop in the vocal cords, leading to voice loss that is difficult to reverse.
Is polyp surgery performed under general anesthesia?
These types of surgeries are usually performed under general anesthesia. Complete anesthesia allows the surgeon to access the vocal cords with a microscope and operate with the utmost precision. General anesthesia both increases patient comfort and enhances the surgeon’s range of motion during the procedure. Because the procedure is performed through the mouth, there is no incision in the throat. Local anesthesia may be preferred for very small polyps or in special circumstances, but this is reserved for very limited cases. The choice of general anesthesia is a key factor in increasing the safety and success rate of the surgery.
Does vocal cord polyp go away on its own?
Polyps are benign growths that develop on the vocal cords and generally do not disappear on their own. Early vocal rest, avoiding harmful habits, and practicing proper vocal techniques can help shrink the polyp. However, complete disappearance is rare. For small polyps, voice therapy can reduce the need for surgical intervention. However, if the polyp is large, obstructs the vocal cords from vibrating, or has been present for a long time, surgery is often unavoidable. Early diagnosis both shortens treatment time and prevents permanent damage to the voice.
When does the voice return to normal after surgery?
The time it takes for the voice to return to its former state depends on the size of the polyp, the extent of the surgery, and the individual’s attention to the healing process. Absolute voice rest is implemented in the initial days, usually lasting 3 to 7 days. Then, speaking is gradually resumed. On average, the voice largely returns to normal within 3–6 weeks, but it can sometimes take several months to reach full performance. During this period, voice therapy, exercises, and doctor’s follow-up appointments accelerate recovery. Without regular care, the recovery period may be prolonged, or the voice may not reach the desired level.
Is vocal cord polyp surgery risky?
This procedure, performed using microsurgical techniques, is quite safe in experienced hands. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks. While rare, anesthesia-related complications, bleeding, infection, or undesirable tissue changes in the vocal cords can occur. The biggest concern is damaging the delicate structure of the vocal cords. Therefore, it is important that the procedure be performed by a specialist experienced in voice surgery. To minimize risks, it is essential to fully follow the doctor’s instructions both before and after the procedure.
Can polyps reoccur?
Although surgery completely removes existing polyps, there is a risk of recurrence. The most significant factors contributing to this risk include incorrect voice use, prolonged loud speaking or shouting, smoking, reflux disease, and allergies. Professional voice users, in particular, should pay close attention to vocal hygiene after surgery and receive regular voice therapy. To minimize the risk of recurrence, it’s important to avoid overexertion, avoid throat irritants, and have regular follow-up appointments.