Laryngeal Cancer (Throat Cancer)

The larynx, or voice box, is the structure at the entrance of the windpipe that regulates airflow during breathing. It consists of three main parts: the supraglottis (upper larynx), vocal cords (glottis), and subglottis (lower larynx). Cancer that develops in any of these areas is referred to as laryngeal cancer. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma.

The leading cause of laryngeal cancer is smoking—present in 94% of cases. Other risk factors include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and poor oral hygiene.

SYMPTOMS OF LARYNGEAL CANCER

Symptoms vary depending on the tumor’s location, but the three main warning signs are:

  • Hoarseness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty swallowing

One or more of these symptoms may appear simultaneously. Additional signs may include:

  • Ear pain
  • Neck mass or swelling

If these symptoms are present, the ENT specialist will perform an examination. If laryngeal cancer is suspected, a biopsywill be taken from the affected tissue. A definitive diagnosis is made after evaluation by a pathologist.

TREATMENT OF LARYNGEAL CANCER

Treatment involves a multidisciplinary team of ENT specialists and oncologists. The plan is based on the tumor’s size and stage. Treatment options include:

  • Surgery
  • Radiotherapy
  • Combined therapies (chemoradiation or surgery + radiation)
The main goal is to maintain quality of life:
  • Reduce pain
  • Preserve speech
  • Allow comfortable eating and breathing
  • Prevent progression to advanced stages or treat it effectively if already advanced

LARYNGEAL CANCER SURGERY

The surgical approach depends on the location and extent of the cancer.

  • If the tumor is limited and does not affect the vocal cords, arytenoid bands, or base of the tongue, a partial laryngectomy (removal of part of the larynx) may be performed.
  • This can also be applied if only one vocal cord is involved.
  • If both vocal cords or the area connecting them are affected, a total laryngectomy (complete removal of the larynx) is required.
  • During this operation, affected lymph nodes and surrounding neck tissues are also cleared.

CAN LARYNGEAL CANCER PATIENTS SPEAK AFTER SURGERY?

The larynx not only regulates breathing and swallowing but also plays a crucial role in speech.

  • If only part of the larynx is removed or if radiation therapy is used, mild hoarseness may occur.
  • If the entire larynx is removed, patients lose natural voice function.

However, speech can be restored using one of the following methods:

  • Esophageal speech (producing sound by swallowing air)
  • Electrolarynx (a handheld vibrating device)
  • Voice prosthesis (a valve placed between the windpipe and esophagus)

Patient Reviews

5/5

I chose Dr. Mesut Doğan for my rhinoplasty operation, and I’m incredibly satisfied with the result. I now have a nose that looks natural and suits my face perfectly. He was attentive throughout the entire process, both before and after the surgery. I’m so glad I chose him!

4/5

I had been unhappy with my nose for years but kept postponing surgery out of fear. Thanks to Dr. Mesut Doğan, I was able to overcome all my fears. A natural appearance and being able to breathe comfortably were very important to me — and he delivered both. I’m truly grateful to him and his team.

5/5

I did extensive research on rhinoplasty and decided that Dr. Mesut Doğan was the right choice. From the very first consultation, he and his team made me feel confident and reassured. After the surgery, I achieved an excellent result both aesthetically and functionally. I’m so glad I met you, doctor!

5/5

I consulted Dr. Mesut Doğan for rhinoplasty and the result exceeded all my expectations. My nose looks so natural that no one can even tell I had surgery. He was by my side with his warm attitude and professionalism at every stage of the process. Endless thanks!

5/5

I had been unhappy with both the appearance of my nose and breathing problems for a long time. After meeting Dr. Mesut Doğan, I knew I had made the right decision. My surgery went very smoothly, and I’m extremely happy with the way I look now. I wholeheartedly recommend him to everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty

On average, it takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The duration may vary depending on the specific procedures performed.

You can take a shower during the first 2 weeks as long as you avoid getting your face wet. You can wash your hair by tilting your head back and wash your body carefully without letting water touch your face. After 2 weeks, there are no restrictions.

You should avoid getting your face wet for the first 2 weeks.

It usually takes between 6 months to 1 year for the nose to fully settle into its final shape.

There may be a very faint and barely noticeable scar under the nose.

There is no need for a special diet, and there are no food restrictions after surgery.

Most patients can return to their daily routines the very next day. They can go out and manage their daily tasks comfortably. However, we recommend resting — not necessarily in bed — for the first week. Returning to work is generally suitable after the nasal splint and packing are removed, about one week post-surgery.

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia.

They are removed one week after the surgery.

The splint is also removed one week after the surgery, together with the tampons.

At the one-week check-up, when the splint and tampons are removed, the tapes are replaced with new ones. The tapes are usually kept for another week, so in total, tapes remain in place for 2 weeks.

No. Any discomfort can be easily managed with mild painkillers.

Yes, after 2 weeks. Makeup is allowed along with showering.

Gentle downward massages from the bridge of the nose can help reduce swelling. However, since patients tend to apply too much pressure, we usually don’t recommend it strongly.

There are special creams available for bruising. Your doctor will recommend one after the surgery.

Piezo surgery targets only the bone tissue without damaging the surrounding soft tissues. Since it doesn’t harm soft tissue, under-eye bruising and swelling are minimal. The recovery process is faster, and it provides greater ease during the surgery.

Thanks to the Piezo technique, swelling is minimal and typically resolves within 2–3 days.

Again, due to the Piezo technique, bruising is minimal and usually disappears after about one week.

Yes. Addressing breathing problems such as nasal congestion is one of the core principles of rhinoplasty.

Yes, if the structural support of the nose is compromised, it may drop. That’s why the surgical technique and the attention and skill of the medical team are extremely important.

Rhinoplasty is not recommended for individuals under 18, as their nasal development is not yet complete. It also cannot be performed on patients with certain health conditions that make general anesthesia risky.

Since nasal development is usually completed by age 18, we do not recommend surgery for anyone younger.

Absolutely. Both procedures can be done in a single session.

No, you’ll be able to manage your daily activities on your own. However, it’s beneficial to have someone accompany you during your overnight stay at the hospital.