What is the recovery time for removal of a polyp from your vocal cord?

The recovery time after a vocal cord polyp removal can vary depending on the individual and the specific type of surgery performed. But typically, the recovery time can be several weeks to months.

Immediately following surgery: Right after the surgery, the patient may experience soreness or discomfort in their throat. This can usually be managed with pain relievers and ice chips. They may also need to use a humidifier to keep the throat moist and reduce pain.

First few days: During the first few days, patients may experience some swelling in their throat which may make it difficult to speak or eat. It's important to restrict vocal use during this period and avoid putting strain on the voice. This can help prevent further injury and promote healing.

First few weeks: Over the next few weeks, the swelling and discomfort should gradually reduce, allowing the patient to resume more of their normal activities. However, vocal rest and voice conservation are still recommended during this time to ensure proper healing.

Month 2-3: As the weeks progress, the patient should be able to gradually increase the use of their voice and return to most normal activities, including speaking and singing. Regular follow-up appointments with the doctor may be necessary to monitor progress and to ensure complete healing.

4-6 weeks: Most patients make a full recovery and regain normal voice function within 4 to 6 weeks of surgery. However, it's important to note that full recovery time can vary and some patients may take longer to fully heal.