When the vocal folds become atrophied, or thinned out, it may be recommended that you undergo a vocal fold augmentation procedure. This can be accomplished by placing permanent implants into the vocal folds to move them closer together.

In addition, fat augmentation may be recommended for many patients. In this procedure a small amount of fat is taken from the belly area, prepared in the operating room, and then injected into specific areas of the vocal cords.

This results in plumping of the vocal folds, as well as moving them a bit closer together so that they can vibrate more vigorously and improve the voice.

Post-operative Instructions

If you have fat injected into your vocal cords, you will note that there is a small drain in the incision where the fat was harvested.

This drain is not sutured in, and can be easily removed by pulling on one end of it. It can be removed without discomfort, and should be removed on the morning after your surgery.

Once the drain is removed, we recommend that you place a bandage over the area, and dress the wound with some antibiotic ointment that can be obtained over the counter.

Generally there will be some bruising in this area that will resolve over the course of several weeks.

We recommend that you use a confidential voice, which is the volume and quality of voice that you would use in talking to a close friend in a crowded area about a personal topic, during the first week after the surgery.

When you return, you will begin to work with the speech pathologist, who will coach you on the proper use of your new vocal folds.

We generally see excellent improvement in vocal function within two weeks after the surgery is performed. Some patients may need to undergo the procedure once again in six months to make the changes permanent. Whether you will need a repeat procedure will be determined by your doctor and speech pathologist.