How long after vocal polyp surgery can one speak normally?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
It takes about one month to recover speech after vocal cord polyp surgery, but when speaking, the voice should not be too high or overused. Vocal cord polyp surgery requires general anesthesia and is performed under a microscope. The entire procedure takes approximately 40 minutes. Speaking is not allowed for the first two weeks after surgery, as vocal cord vibration during speech can worsen swelling of the vocal cords.
Vocal polyps are a relatively common condition in otolaryngology. How long after vocal polyp surgery can one resume normal speaking?
How long after vocal polyp surgery can one speak normally?
It generally takes about one month to recover the ability to speak after vocal polyp surgery, but when speaking, avoid using a high-pitched voice or overusing the voice. Vocal polyp surgery requires general anesthesia and is performed under a microscope, with the entire procedure lasting approximately 40 minutes. Speaking should be avoided for the first two weeks after surgery because vocal cord vibration during speech can worsen swelling and impair postoperative recovery. After two weeks, limited talking is allowed—start with minimal or soft speaking. Normal speaking may gradually resume several months after surgery, but loud or excessive voice use should still be avoided.
Additionally, although recovery time after surgery is relatively short, patients are advised to allow for a reasonable period of vocal rest. Even when permitted to speak, it's best not to speak continuously for more than ten minutes at a time. At this stage, vocal cord vibrations can create friction on the surgical wound, increasing the risk of wound dehiscence, irritating the healing tissue, delaying recovery, or even causing recurrence of vocal polyps. This issue must be carefully observed throughout the recovery process.
During the final stages of recovery, since phonation is also part of the healing process, patients may take deep breaths before speaking, which can help protect the throat. However, patients should remember that the underlying cause of vocal polyps is typically vocal overuse. We hope this information has been helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
