Was my Tracheal Shave successful? (Photos)

Question

Dear Doctors, I had my Tracheal shave about 10 days ago. Somehow I wondering if the surgery was successful, because till today the Tracheal looks even bigger. And it feels like the incision scar is stuck to the tissue underneath. When I swallowing, during that action, the scar is pulled upward under the skin, drawing attention to it. Will that condition fade away within the time or that request another surgery to lose it?

Philip Solomon, MD, FRCS · Answer

Its too early to judge your surgical result.  Massage the scar and apply scar cream.  See your surgeon to assess your result. Its best to be patient and assess your result after a few months of healing.  Good luck.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Swelling will persist for a while and you can't tell much at 10 days.  I'd talk with your doctor and massage the scar.We can possibly improve the size still (depending if your doctor used a video camera or not) and can almost certainly improve the scar if needed.

Raghu Athre, MD · Answer

10 days is too soon to judge the result.  Based on surgeon's technique, whether a drain was used, etc...you will have some post operative swelling.  Massaging the area will go a long way to reduce edema/swelling/tethering, etc.Good luck!

Sarah Saxon, MD · Answer

It would be impossible to tell whether what you are experiencing is temporary or permanent since it is too soon after surgery. It is normal to have some swelling after the procedure that will give the appearance of a bump or cause a tugging sensation.
A little massage everyday will go a long way at softening the tissues in your neck. Call your surgeon to have them see you to ease your concerns. 
If your surgeon did not use a camera during surgery to maximize the amount of cartilage removed while still preserving your vocal cord function, there is a possibility of a more aggressive reduction along with reapproximating the muscles in the neck to prevent tethering. 
Best of luck to you,
Sarah Saxon, MD

Was my Tracheal Shave successful? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Issues after trach shave

Answer: Issues after trach shave

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Was my Tracheal Shave successful? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Issues after trach shave

Answer: Issues after trach shave

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