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BOTOX Treatment for Vocal Cord (left) Paralysis?

Can a 81 year old man(ageing) affected by vocal cord (left) paralysis have the BOTOX treatment and can get his speech restored to normal? He is affected about 6 years ago!

Doctor Answers 2

Laryngologic indications for Botox

September 23rd, 2013
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A procedure to augment and/or medialize the paralyzed vocal fold would be indicated to improve the 81 year old man's speech.  Botox has no role in treating vocal fold paralysis.  A board-certified laryngologist would be best equipped to address your concerns.     

Donald B. Yoo, MD


Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 44 reviews

Botox for the larynx/vocal cords is for spasmodic dysphonia, not vocal cord paralysis

September 17th, 2013
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A paralyzed vocal cord is best treated with an implant to move the vocal cord more medially or with a long term filler like Radiesse.  Injecting Botox into the vocal cord would make the voice worse, not better, for someone with paralysis.  One of the original indications for Radiesse was placement in the vocal cord for someone with paralysis.  Spasmodic dysphonia is when the vocal cords are too tense from spasm and Botox relaxes the muscles so they can speak near normal.  This was one of the first indications for Botox as well.  

Web reference: http://www.theclinique.net/procedures/face/botox-cosmetic/

Steven F. Weiner, MD

Steven F. Weiner, MD
Panama City Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.5 out of 5 stars 23 reviews

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