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Vocal Cord Polyp Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul

Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English

What is a vocal cord polyp?

A vocal cord polyp (vocal fold polyp) is a benign, fluid-filled or gelatinous lesion that grows from the edge of a vocal fold. Unlike vocal cord nodules, which are usually on both sides, polyps typically form on one side and can vary from tiny to large enough to flop between the folds as you breathe. Some are hemorrhagic, meaning they formed after bleeding within the vocal fold.

Symptoms

• Persistent hoarseness or rough voice quality
• Breathiness or a "double" voice
• Vocal fatigue and loss of vocal range
• A feeling of something in the throat or frequent throat clearing
• Rarely, noisy breathing with very large polyps

Causes

Polyps often develop after a single phonotraumatic event, such as shouting at a concert or sports game, which ruptures a small blood vessel in the vocal fold. Repeated loud speaking, singing with strain, smoking and laryngopharyngeal reflux are well-known contributing factors. Blood-thinning medication may make vocal fold hemorrhage more likely.

How it's diagnosed at our Gangnam clinic

The key test is laryngoscopy, which lets Dr. Kim see the vocal folds directly on a monitor. He assesses whether there is a single polyp, nodules, a cyst, a granuloma or Reinke's edema, and checks the surrounding larynx for signs of reflux. Seeing the images yourself makes it easier to understand the diagnosis and plan. Any lesion that looks atypical is evaluated further to exclude a precancerous or malignant change.

Treatment options

Conservative treatment

• Voice rest after an acute hemorrhage, as advised
• Voice therapy to reduce strain and improve technique
• Treating reflux and staying well hydrated
• Stopping smoking

Small, recent polyps sometimes shrink with these measures, so a period of observation is often reasonable.

Surgery

Polyps that are large, fibrous or persistent usually do not resolve with therapy alone. Phonomicrosurgery, performed through the mouth with a microscope, removes the polyp while preserving the delicate vibrating layer of the vocal fold. This is generally done under general anesthesia in a hospital setting, and a period of voice rest and voice therapy follows. Dr. Kim can explain whether surgery is advisable and arrange referral when appropriate.

When to see an ENT

See an ENT for any hoarseness lasting more than three to four weeks, or sooner if your voice is essential to your work. Seek prompt care if hoarseness comes with breathing difficulty, coughing up blood, painful swallowing or a lump in the neck.

Seeing Dr. Kim in English

Dr. Kim Yoo Suk completed his ENT training at Yonsei University and later served as an assistant professor at Ajou University. A rhinologist by subspecialty who treats every area of ENT, he walks you through laryngoscopy images and options in clear English. Expats and visitors can read our international patient information.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a vocal cord polyp and a nodule?

Polyps are usually one-sided, softer and can appear after a single episode of strain, while nodules are typically on both sides and develop gradually from chronic overuse. Nodules respond well to voice therapy; larger polyps more often need surgical removal.

Do vocal cord polyps turn into cancer?

Vocal cord polyps are benign and are not considered precancerous. However, some lesions that look similar are not polyps, so any persistent lesion is examined carefully and, when removed, is usually sent for pathology.

How long is voice rest after polyp surgery?

Surgeons usually recommend a short period of strict voice rest followed by gradual return of voice use with therapy. The exact schedule depends on the size of the polyp and the surgeon's protocol, so follow the instructions given after your procedure.

This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Symptoms differ between people — please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.