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What Are Voice & Swallowing Disorders?

Voice and swallowing problems arise when there is a disruption in the complex systems involving the throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), or esophagus. Common conditions include vocal cord nodules, laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), vocal fold paralysis, spasmodic dysphonia, and structural issues like strictures or masses. Swallowing issues (dysphagia) can be caused by neurological, muscular, or anatomical abnormalities, and they often affect both nutrition and breathing safety.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Treatment for Voice & Swallowing Problems Why Early Treatment Matters Patient Story Surgical Details Am I a Candidate? Recovery & Expected Outcomes Types of Procedures Voice & Swallowing Problems FAQs

What Are the Benefits of Treatment for Voice & Swallowing Problems?

With expert diagnosis and tailored interventions, treatment can:

  • Restore clarity, strength, and endurance of the voice
  • Improve safety and efficiency of swallowing
  • Relieve throat pain, coughing, and irritation Relieve throat pain, coughing, and irritation
  • Prevent complications like aspiration pneumonia or malnutrition
  • Offer long-term relief using both surgical and non-surgical options

Why Early Treatment Matters

Unaddressed voice or swallowing problems can lead to worsening symptoms, emotional distress, and decreased quality of life.

Some disorders may signal underlying cancers, nerve damage, or chronic conditions requiring timely intervention. By treating the root cause early, patients can avoid complications and regain normal function with better outcomes.

“I had been struggling with chronic hoarseness for months. After seeing Dr. Basheeth, I finally have my voice back. His care was both professional and compassionate.”

Voice Disorder Patient from Wellington

Surgical Details

Dr. Basheeth offers advanced surgical options when conservative treatments (such as voice therapy, medications, or dietary changes) are insufficient. Procedures are tailored to the patient’s diagnosis and may include microlaryngoscopy, vocal cord injection or medialisation, esophageal dilation, or excision of lesions or polyps. In complex cases, robotic and endoscopic techniques provide precise access with minimal tissue disruption. All surgeries are performed under general anaesthesia in accredited facilities with a focus on safety, comfort, and outcomes.

Am I a Candidate for Surgery?

Surgical treatment may be suitable if you:

  • Have persistent hoarseness, vocal fatigue, or weak voice
  • Struggle to swallow solids or liquids safely
  • Experience frequent choking, coughing, or food getting stuck
  • Have been diagnosed with vocal cord paralysis, growths, or strictures
  • Have not responded to conservative therapies

A thorough assessment including laryngoscopy, stroboscopy, swallowing evaluation, and imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and create an appropriate treatment plan.

Recovery & Expected Outcomes

Recovery depends on the procedure and underlying condition. Most patients return home the same day or after one night in hospital. Discomfort is usually minimal and can be effectively controlled with medication. Voice rest or dietary modifications may be advised during early recovery.

Follow-up care includes voice therapy or speech-language rehabilitation to enhance healing and function. For swallowing issues, outcomes often include reduced risk of aspiration, improved nutritional intake, and greater ease during meals. Patients frequently notice immediate improvement in symptoms, with long-term results supported by tailored treatment and specialist care.

Visible scarring is rare with endoscopic or robotic approaches. The long-term outlook is highly favorable for most patients, particularly when the condition is diagnosed and treated early.

Types of Procedures

Voice and swallowing issues can stem from a wide range of causes, and treatment options vary depending on the nature and severity of the condition. Dr. Basheeth offers both non-surgical and surgical solutions, supported by expert rehabilitative care, to ensure each patient receives the most effective and personalised approach.

Non-Surgical & In-Clinic Treatments

Many functional voice and swallowing disorders can be successfully managed without the need for surgery. Dr. Basheeth provides in-clinic treatments such as anti-reflux therapy to address laryngopharyngeal reflux (silent reflux), vocal hygiene education to promote healthy voice use, and vocal cord augmentation for patients experiencing weak or breathy voice due to vocal fold thinning or paralysis. These procedures are minimally invasive, often performed under local anaesthesia, and deliver noticeable improvement with little to no downtime.

Advanced Surgical Interventions

For conditions that do not respond to conservative treatment or are caused by anatomical abnormalities, surgical intervention may be required. Dr. Basheeth performs precision microsurgical techniques such as microlaryngoscopy and laser removal of benign or pre-cancerous vocal cord lesions. In more complex cases, such as vocal cord paralysis, structural voice surgeries like thyroplasty are used to reposition or reshape the vocal folds for improved voice quality. Swallowing difficulties may also require targeted surgical procedures, including the release of tight muscles or removal of structural obstructions affecting the throat or oesophagus.

Comprehensive Rehabilitative Care

Long-term success in treating voice and swallowing disorders often depends on expert rehabilitation. Working closely with experienced speech-language therapists, Dr. Basheeth ensures every patient receives personalised follow-up care. This may include guided voice therapy, tailored swallowing exercises, and specific dietary adjustments to support functional recovery. The goal is not only to treat the current issue but to preserve and enhance long-term voice and swallowing health.

Voice & Swallowing Problems FAQs

Will I lose my voice after surgery?

Can swallowing problems be treated without surgery?

How long is recovery?

Is treatment painful?

Will there be visible scars?

Will I lose my voice after surgery?

No, most patients experience improved voice. Temporary rest may be recommended postoperatively.

Can swallowing problems be treated without surgery?

Yes. Many cases respond to therapy, medication, or dietary adjustments. Surgery is only considered when necessary.

How long is recovery?

Most patients resume normal activity within a few days. Voice recovery may take 1–2 weeks, with full results in 4–6 weeks.

Is treatment painful?

Procedures are performed under anaesthesia. Mild discomfort is normal and well-controlled after surgery.

Will there be visible scars?

Rarely. Endoscopic and robotic techniques leave no external scarring.

Why Choose Dr. Naveed Basheeth?

Dr. Naveed Basheeth is a highly experienced ENT, Head & Neck Surgeon with international training in advanced laryngeal and swallowing procedures. His commitment to precise diagnosis, patient comfort, and minimally invasive techniques ensures excellent outcomes with a personalised touch. From singers and teachers to elderly patients with dysphagia, Dr. Basheeth provides world-class care to every voice and every patient.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward clearer speech and safer swallowing.

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Referral Pathway: We provide online consultations within two weeks of referral for out-of-town residents. Relevant investigations, radiological and laboratory, can be undertaken in the patient's city. Private and outsourced referrals can be sent to: admin@entcentral.co.nz (347) 557-8368.

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