3 weeks after total thyroidectomy

[annemarie614]

I had a total thyroidectomy 3 weeks ago and my voice is still hoarse and my breathing feels somewhat constricted.  Is this normal?  Has anyone else felt this way and how long should it feel like this?

[SchieSly]

Did your voice come back? If so, do you remember how long it took?
I had a TT 8/2013. Friends tell me my speaking voice sounds the same. B4 surgery I was a Tenor/Alto. Now I only have the very bottom of my tenor range, then Kazoo for a few notes and no Alto range at all. I've been happily singing with a choir for 2 years.  I'm terrified that it is a thing of the past!
SchieSly

[hope4thegoodstuff]

I think I am about 7 weeks out after tt.  I don't notice that my voice is as hoarse anymore, but it seems lower to my ears.  It seems as though I can't speak very loudly.  I can't hold a note or move thru different notes when I'm singing.  Sometimes when I try it just seems there is a barrier that comes up and it feels like it will start to strain if I push it.  So I don't push it.  I think it is getting better.  and though to me my voice sounds lower, the people around me say it sounds like me again.  

[annemarie614]

Thank you everyone for your helpful input.  After having tt I was a little concerned and being a worry wart.  My Ent. didn't tell me a whole lot and after surgery I only saw him briefly but I was pretty doped up lol.  I don't see him until 5 weeks after my surgery to find out any results.  So I just needed a little reassurance from you all.  Thank you

[Anu0506]

I had a traumatic experience after my tt. Its been 10 months now. My vocal cord was temporarily paralysed. Only after the 6th month my ent told me I will be getting my voice back and thus dont have to go thru another surgery to get my voice this time. So, you dont worry, this kind of thing will take time . Be patient. Apparently, it is best if your ent could help you. good luck. Oh ya, for your information, my voice is not like how it was before. I guess i got to settle for that. I am still keeping my fingers crossed hoping will get my original voice back.

[Lynn63]

I experienced hoarseness for several weeks also and was told at followup that my vocal cords were working just fine.  It was very annoying but eventually went away.

Good luck to you!
:)

[kipland]

I too had vocal cord trauma after surgery.  It affected my voice, swallowing and breathing.  If it's bothersome and doesn't get better, I would suggest a visit to an ENT doc so they can take a look at your vocal cords.

[nissah46]

Do you know if your vocal cords were touched during the surgery?  I had a paralyzed vocal cord after surgery, and lost my voice for 6 weeks.  My breathing was not affected.  
Trish