Laryngeal Cancer
Voice Rehabilitation
When the whole larynx is removed, speech is regained with a voice prosthesis, an electrolarynx or oesophageal speech. Rehabilitation is an inseparable part of the plan.
Will I lose my voice?
It is the question her patients ask most, and a completely natural worry. What Prof. Dr. Meriç Hafız tells them, with an easy conscience: a laryngeal cancer patient does not end up voiceless.
The larynx is the organ that houses the vocal cords, and the treatment plan depends on where the tumour sits, how large it is and its stage. Caught early, the disease can usually be treated by removing only the tumour, or with radiotherapy, and the voice is preserved. Many patients speak normally after treatment.
In more advanced disease the whole larynx sometimes has to be removed. Even then, speech is not over: a voice prosthesis, an electrolarynx or oesophageal speech lets patients talk again. The aim is always double: clear the cancer completely, and protect quality of life and voice as far as possible.
Read the full Laryngeal Cancer guide
Frequently asked questions
The natural voice is lost, but speech is not. A voice prosthesis, an electrolarynx or oesophageal speech lets patients talk again, and rehabilitation is part of the plan.
Depending on the extent of surgery, temporary swallowing difficulty can occur and largely recovers with rehabilitation. Expectations are set clearly beforehand.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız, Professor of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery — August 2026 · About
Outcomes of surgical and medical procedures vary from person to person; please consult your physician for an assessment specific to you.
We are here for your questions
The practice is at Selenium Plaza in Beşiktaş. Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange a visit. English-speaking patients are welcome.