Procedure Type
SurgicalProcedure Duration
1 - 2 HoursHospital Stay (Days)
1 - 2 daysThyroplasty surgery, also known as medialization laryngoplasty, is a voice restoration procedure primarily performed to improve voice quality in individuals with vocal cord paralysis or weakness. When one of the vocal cords does not move properly—often due to nerve injury, trauma, or neurological disease—it can lead to a breathy, weak, or hoarse voice, and even swallowing difficulties. Thyroplasty aims to reposition the affected vocal cord closer to the middle of the voice box (larynx), enabling better vibration with the functioning vocal cord, which results in a stronger and more natural-sounding voice.
Thyroplasty is recommended for individuals who experience persistent hoarseness or vocal fatigue due to unilateral vocal cord paralysis that has not improved with voice therapy or has lasted for more than six months. This condition can arise following thyroid or neck surgery, viral infections, trauma, or tumors affecting the recurrent laryngeal nerve. The procedure is particularly beneficial for people whose voice issues interfere with communication, work, or quality of life.
Thyroplasty is usually done under local anesthesia with mild sedation, allowing the surgeon to adjust the position of the vocal cord while the patient is awake and speaking. This real-time feedback ensures optimal voice results. During the surgery, a small incision is made in the neck to access the thyroid cartilage. The surgeon creates a small window in the cartilage and inserts an implant—typically made of silicone or Gore-Tex—that pushes the paralyzed vocal cord toward the midline. Once the implant is positioned to produce the best vocal outcome, the incision is closed.
The primary benefit of thyroplasty is the restoration of vocal strength and clarity. Patients often experience immediate improvement in voice projection, reduced breathiness, and better control over their pitch and volume. Additionally, it can alleviate symptoms like choking or coughing while swallowing. Since the procedure is minimally invasive and preserves the natural vocal anatomy, it offers a long-term solution with fewer complications compared to other interventions.
Recovery from thyroplasty is typically smooth, with most patients going home the same day or after a brief hospital stay. Mild swelling, soreness, or bruising at the incision site may occur but usually subsides within a few days. Voice rest is generally advised for the first few days, followed by gradual return to speaking. Voice therapy may be recommended to help maximize vocal function after surgery. Most individuals notice significant improvements in voice quality within the first week.
PRINCIPAL DIRECTOR ENT
MBBS, MS - ENT, DNB - Otorhinolaryngology ENT/ Otorhinolaryngologist
While thyroplasty is considered safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. These may include bleeding, infection, implant displacement, or changes in voice pitch or tone. In rare cases, the desired voice improvement may not be achieved, requiring revision surgery or alternative treatments. However, with a skilled surgeon and proper follow-up, the chances of complications are low and outcomes are usually favorable.
Thyroplasty is designed to be a permanent solution for vocal cord paralysis. The implants used are durable and typically do not need to be removed or replaced. Unlike temporary procedures such as vocal cord injections, which may wear off over time, thyroplasty offers lasting improvement in vocal quality. Nevertheless, some patients may require additional voice therapy or follow-up adjustments for optimal results.
Yes, thyroplasty can be combined with other treatments if needed. For instance, some patients may benefit from simultaneous arytenoid adduction (a procedure to further improve vocal cord closure) or voice therapy before and after surgery. In certain cases, temporary vocal cord injections may be used prior to surgery to evaluate how much voice improvement is possible, helping to determine if thyroplasty is the right option.
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