As we age, just like other muscles in our body, the delicate muscles and tissues of our vocal cords can naturally thin and lose bulk. This common condition is known as presbyphonia or vocal fold atrophy (sometimes called “aging voice”). Vocal atrophy can also be experienced by younger people who have lost muscle strength, including people who have lost weight rapidly or undergone treatment for cancer

Are you experiencing any of these common symptoms?

• A voice that sounds weaker or quieter
• Increased effort or strain when speaking
• A breathy or “whispery” quality to your voice
• Difficulty projecting your voice
• Difficulty communicating in noisy environments (such as restaurants)
• Reduced vocal range or an inability to hit higher notes
• Frequent throat clearing or a feeling of “running out of breath” while talking
• Social isolation due to difficulty communicating

While these changes can be frustrating and impact your quality of life, they are often treatable. You don’t have to accept a fading voice as an inevitable part of aging.

As ENT Surgeons (Otolaryngologists) with specialised expertise in voice disorders, Sydney Voice and Swallowing / Sydney ENT Specialists provides comprehensive and compassionate care for vocal fold atrophy and presbyphonia. Our approach focuses on:

1. Specialised Assessment: We utilise state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including the latest high-definition laryngeal videostroboscopy, to gain a precise understanding of your vocal cord function and identify the exact nature of your voice changes. This detailed assessment ensures an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.
2. Minimally Invasive Therapies: We are at the forefront of modern voice treatment, offering cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures designed to restore your vocal clarity and strength with less downtime and discomfort.
3. Convenient Office-Based Procedures: Many of our effective treatments for vocal fold atrophy can be performed comfortably in a clinic setting without the need for general anaesthesia. This means you can avoid hospital stays and return to your daily activities sooner.
4. Pre and post voice assessment: We are the only voice clinic in Sydney using a comprehensive range of scientifically validated voice measures, including acoustic analysis, aerodynamic analysis, and patient-reported outcome tools, to ensure our treatments are effective

Why Choose Sydney Voice and Swallowing / Sydney ENT Specialists

• Fellowship-Trained Expertise: Prof. Daniel Novakovic and Dr Thomas Stewart have both undertaken International advanced fellowship training in Laryngology and Care of the Voice in New York City, working with global leaders in the field
• Internationally recognised expertise: Our doctors are recognised as world leaders in the field with multiple publications in scientific journals related to the treatment of voice problems.
• Patient-Centred Care: Your comfort and clear communication are our priority. We listen to your concerns and work with you to achieve the best possible vocal outcomes.
• Advanced Technology: Utilising the latest diagnostic and therapeutic equipment for precise and effective treatment. We are the first doctors in Australia using regenerative medicine techniques to treat voice disorders
• Convenient Location in St Leonards: Easy access for patients across Sydney.

At Sydney Voice and Swallowing / Sydney ENT Specialists, we offer a range of cutting-edge treatments for vocal fold atrophy and presbyphonia, tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our focus on minimally invasive and office-based solutions means you can often experience significant improvement without the need for major surgery.

Our advanced treatment options include:

• Vocal Fold Injection Laryngoplasty: This innovative, often office-based procedure involves carefully injecting a biocompatible filler material directly into the vocal fold. This “plumps up” the thinned vocal cords, allowing them to meet more effectively and produce a stronger, clearer voice. It’s a quick procedure with minimal recovery, often providing immediate results.
• Regenerative Medicine Treatments: We are the first clinic in Australia to offer regenerative medicine options for vocal cord conditions including atrophy and presbyphonia. We are now using specialised processing techniques to extract natural cells and growth factors from your own body’s tissue to improve voice function, including Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and autologous micronised fat grafts.
• Office-Based Laryngeal Laser Procedures (e.g., KTP Laser): For certain types of vocal fold changes that contribute to voice weakness, a gentle, precise laser can be used to improve tissue health and function. These procedures are highly targeted and can often be performed in the office.
• Voice Therapy / Speech Pathology: Often an essential component of comprehensive voice rehabilitation, we collaborate closely with experienced voice specialised speech pathologists. Voice therapy can help you learn optimal vocal techniques, strengthen vocal cord muscles, and maximise the benefits of any medical or surgical intervention.
• Microsurgery (when indicated): While we prioritise minimally invasive options, some patients may benefit from microscopic surgical techniques to address underlying issues or enhance vocal cord function. This is discussed thoroughly to determine if this is the best option for you.

1. Initial Consultation & Assessment: Your journey begins with a detailed discussion of your voice concerns and a thorough examination using advanced diagnostic tools like laryngeal stroboscopy.
2. Personalised Treatment Plan: Based on our findings, we will discuss the most suitable treatment options for you, explaining the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of each.
3. Procedure & Recovery: For minimally invasive, office-based procedures, you can typically expect a quick and comfortable experience with little to no downtime. We provide clear post-procedure instructions.
4. Follow-up & Voice Optimisation: We monitor your progress and may recommend voice therapy to help you achieve and maintain the best possible vocal function.