How long does it take to recover from vocal nodules surgery?

You may eat and drink normally after the operation. The operation itself will probably be done as a day case, so you should be able to go home on the same day. The vocal cords may take 6-8 weeks to fully heal after microlaryngoscopy, so over this time, you should treat your voice with care.

How are nodules removed from vocal cords?

Microsurgery. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove noncancerous vocal cord nodules, cysts, or polyps. While you are under general anesthesia, tiny surgical instruments are inserted through your mouth into your throat.

Do vocal nodules require surgery?

Treatments for Vocal Fold Nodules and Polyps You can have surgery to remove the nodules or polyps. This is usually done only when they are large or have been there for a long time. Children do not usually have surgery. You need to treat any medical causes of your voice problem.

Can vocal nodules be surgically removed?

Vocal cord nodules can be surgically removed but may also be treated with non‐surgical voice therapy interventions (e.g. voice re‐training, rest or hygiene advice) or medical/pharmacological treatment of underlying infections, allergy or gastroesophageal reflux.

Is vocal cord nodule surgery safe?

For the majority of people who need to have a benign vocal cord lesion removed, laser surgery is a convenient, safe, and effective treatment option. A voice specialist can evaluate whether you are a candidate for this procedure based on your medical history and the results of a physical exam and voice evaluation.

Can vocal cord surgery change your voice?

Your voice can be altered surgically so that it no longer makes low pitched sounds. This is called voice feminization surgery or feminization laryngoplasty. During voice feminization surgery, the voice box is made smaller and the vocal cords are shortened. Trans women sometimes undergo this procedure.

What kind of doctor does vocal cord surgery?

More commonly known as ear, nose and throat physicians (ENTs), Northwestern Medicine otolaryngologists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of diseases and disorders of the head and neck, including vocal cord polyps and nodules.

What happens if you talk after vocal cord surgery?

Typically, your physician will prescribe three to seven days of voice rest after surgery. This means absolutely no talking, throat clearing, whispering, or coughing (if you can avoid it). Any noise that you make can be damaging and may make it difficult for the vocal cords to heal properly.

How painful is vocal cord surgery?

Most people who have microlaryngoscopy return home on the day of surgery. You may experience minor discomfort in your throat or soreness in your jaw, but pain is rarely severe. Your doctor may recommend a dose of over-the-counter pain relief medication, if necessary.

Is vocal cord surgery painful?

Are you sedated for a laryngoscopy?

Direct laryngoscopy can take up to 45 minutes. You’ll be given what’s called general anesthesia, so that you will not be awake during the procedure. Your doctor can take out any growths in your throat or take a sample of something that might need to be checked more closely.