Vocal Cord Injections
What is it?
This is a treatment to inject the vocal cord using fat aspirate from your abdominal wall. There are other substances that can be injected too. These are similar to the cosmetic substances injected in the face to treat wrinkles and to bulk the lips. Examples of such substances are hyaluronic acid, radiesse (calcium gel) and collagen.
Indications?
This is indicated in patients who have loss their voice due to vocal cord paralysis. Other indications are weak and thin voice from ageing (a condition called presbyphonia).
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Technique?
This procedure may be done either under a local anaesthesia or a general anaesthesia. The choice depends on which material will be injected. Fat injection usually requires a general anaesthesia. Radiesse, hyaluronic and collagen can be injected either under a local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia. You will be expected to go home on the same day after the injection. The injection can be administered through the skin of your neck or through the mouth with the aid of a fibreoptic video camera. This is something Mr Karagama will discuss with you at your consultation.
The technique involves injecting a very small amount (1ml) of the material into the vocal cord to increase its thickness. This helps the two vocal cords to make good contact for voice production. The procedure is usually completed in less than 30 minutes.
You will be advice to rest your voice for 3 days after the injection to minimize bruising on the vocal cord. You should be able to use your voice fully by the seventh day after the operation.
The technique involves injecting a very small amount (1ml) of the material into the vocal cord to increase its thickness. This helps the two vocal cords to make good contact for voice production. The procedure is usually completed in less than 30 minutes.
You will be advice to rest your voice for 3 days after the injection to minimize bruising on the vocal cord. You should be able to use your voice fully by the seventh day after the operation.
Complications?
Like any surgical procedures, complications can occur. However, serious complications are rare from this procedure. You may experience a sorethroat over a day or two. This should easily respond to a simple analgesia like paracetamol or ibuprofen. There is no guarantee that your will be 100% satisfied with the outcome of the procedure. Also it is important to know that this injection may only last for 6-12 months but it can be repeated again if necessary.