Voice Preservation & Restoration After Thyroid Cancer Treatment
Thyroid cancer and its treatments, which may include surgery or radioactive iodine therapy, can irritate or damage the nerves that control the vocal cords and lead to voice changes. These changes vary in severity and may include hoarseness, breathiness and difficulty projecting your voice. Voice changes are typically temporary, but in rare cases they can be permanent. Early interventions can support healing and preserve or restore voice quality.
The laryngology specialists at University Hospitals provide the most advanced therapies available for vocal care after thyroid cancer treatment.
Make an Appointment
Our multidisciplinary team, which includes ENT physicians, speech pathologists and nurses who specialize in voice disorders, will strive to understand your unique needs and create a plan just for you. Call 216-541-1856 today to schedule an evaluation.
Find a DoctorPersonalized Treatment Plans
Voice changes after thyroid cancer treatment vary greatly depending on the extent of the cancer and the treatments used. Some people may experience minor and temporary vocal disturbances, while others have significant complications that require surgical intervention.
The voice specialists at the UH Center for Voice, Airway and Swallowing Disorders carefully evaluate each patient and develop personalized treatment plans based on their symptoms and goals. Treatment may include one or more of the following nonsurgical therapies or in-office procedures:
- Customized speech therapy to help strengthen the vocal cords and improve breath control.
- Injectable materials to reposition and add bulk to the vocal cords, facilitating better closure and improving voice quality.
- Steroid injections to manage inflammation of the neck muscles and reduce scar tissue.
- Medications (neuromodulators) to temporarily block nerve signals and relieve neck muscle spasms.
Every patient’s recovery is unique, but with the right support and modern therapies, most people regain their voice and confidence. The UH team works closely with patients to ensure the best possible outcome.
Advanced Surgical Interventions
Nonsurgical approaches are often enough to improve voice quality if the nerve is injured but still intact. However, in cases of serious nerve damage and permanent vocal cord paralysis, surgery may be recommended.
Common surgical procedures may include:
- Medialization thyroplasty. A small silicone implant is placed between the cartilage surrounding the voice box and the paralyzed or weakened vocal cord to help support vocal quality.
- Reinnervation techniques. Procedures to reroute and reconnect the nerves that control the vocal cords can significantly improve voice quality.
After surgery, speech therapists work closely with each patient to teach vocal exercises, breathing techniques, safe swallowing practices and other strategies to prevent voice strain. Consistent, targeted speech therapy after surgery is essential to achieve optimal voice recovery.
Protect Your Voice After Treatment
Once treatment is complete, it’s important to follow simple lifestyle recommendations to promote healing. These include:
- Rest your voice. Avoid shouting, whispering and long conversations, especially in the early weeks after surgery.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water (6-8 glasses daily) to keep your vocal cords moist and flexible. Use a humidifier at home, especially in dry climates or during winter months.
- Avoid irritants. Stay away from smoking, secondhand smoke, excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dry out your throat. Limit throat-clearing as it can stress your vocal cords.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will it take for my voice to return to normal?
-
Most voice changes after thyroid cancer surgery are temporary and improve within the first 6 weeks to 6 months following treatment. However, some patients may notice differences in their voice quality for up to a year after surgery. In most cases, vocal function returns to normal or near normal over time, especially with early intervention and therapy.
- What should I do if my voice does not improve?
-
If you notice that your voice is not improving or continues to affect your daily life several weeks after surgery, it’s important to contact your care team. Persistent voice changes can sometimes be addressed with specialized therapies or, in rare cases, surgical intervention. Early evaluations by an ENT voice specialist or a speech-language pathologist can help identify the cause and guide you toward the best treatment options.
- Can voice changes be permanent?
-
Permanent voice changes are uncommon but can occur, especially if there is a significant nerve injury from the cancer or as a side effect of surgery. Most patients experience only temporary changes, but up to 25 percent may still notice some degree of voice difference beyond 6 months. Your surgical team will take measures to minimize these risks and discuss them with you before your procedure.
- What is the likelihood of full voice recovery?
-
The majority of patients regain their normal voice or experience only mild, manageable changes after thyroid cancer treatment. Early rehabilitation and personalized care plans significantly improve the chances of a full recovery.
Make an Appointment
Your health is important. Get expert care.
Offering in-person and virtual visits. Call 216-541-1856 or schedule online today.
One of the Best for ENT Care
UH Cleveland Medical Center was ranked by U.S. News as one of the 50 Best Hospitals in the Nation for ENT Care.