Could a rhinoplasty operation have an adverse effect on my singing voice? i have studied classical voice all my life and my teacher says that a rhinoplasty could change the quality of my voice. is this true?

This : This is a good question. A properly performed rhinoplasty surgery that does not create nasal obstruction and will not change your voice. Many individuals with a professional voice have undergone the procedure and have not had any alteration the quality of their voice - providing nasal airflow is not decreased. However, post-surgical swelling (which resolves) can give the appearance of a hypernasal voice due to decreased airflow. Further, there is the risk of vocal cord injury with intubation (julie andrews - although her difficulty was from vocal surgery) that is often performed during general anesthesia. An modern lma can be used and obviate the need for a tube to be passed between the vocal cords. Please let us know if there are any other questions. Kind regards, james m. Ridgway, md.

Rhinoplasty : Rhinoplasty shouldn't affect your singing voice as long as its functional integrity is maintained (or improved). You can expect some temporary changes related to post-operative nasal congestion from the surgical swelling, but this should resolve.

I : I would agree with the other physicians here. However, any compromise in nasal airway could alter flow and increase the potential for increased sinus congestion. The paranasal sinuses are considered "coupled resonators" and may alter the pitch of the voice. This is relatively esoteric stuff and the vast majority of patients do not report any problems.

As : As long as you do not have a nasal quality to your voice a rhinoplasty will not change your singing voice. Make sure you select a surgeon experienced in working with professionals like yourself.

No: I have done thousands and never have seen a change in the vocal tone of the patient.