Throat and Voice

Throat & Voice Treatment in Singapore

Laryngology/ Voice Disorders
Dr Dennis Chua is an experienced ENT Voice specialist that treats many voice disorders successfully. Most patients with laryngeal disorders present with hoarseness. When severe, some patients may experience aphonia (loss of voice). There can be several causes of this:

Vocal Cord Nodules (Singer's Nodules, Screamer's Nodules)

Vocal cord nodules are also known as calluses of the vocal fold. They appear on both sides of the vocal cords, typically at the midpoint, and directly face each other. Like other calluses, these lesions often diminish or disappear when overuse of the area is stopped. There may be a history of singing or prolonged voice use. The teaching profession is at risk of this condition due to the nature of the job. This condition can usually be treated conservatively with voice rest, vocal hygiene and regular hydration. Use of a microphone during teaching can be useful as this minimizes vocal cord strain during class. Many patients who have concomitant Laryngopharyngoreflux disease (“Reflux disease”) may need to be treated with medication to decrease gastric acidity (proton pump inhibitors). Referral to the speech therapy may be necessary for chronic cases.

A vocal cord polyp usually occurs only on one side of the vocal cord and can occur in a variety of shapes and sizes. Depending upon the nature of the polyp, it can cause a wide range of voice disturbances. These polyps usually need to be biopsied for diagnostic and therapeutic reasons.

A Vocal Cord Cyst

A vocal cord cyst is a firm mass of tissue contained within a membrane (sac). The cyst can be located near the surface of the vocal cord or deeper, near the ligament of the vocal cord. As with vocal cord polyps and nodules, the size and location of vocal cord cysts affect the degree of disruption of vocal cord vibration and subsequently the severity of hoarseness or other voice problem. Surgery followed by voice therapy is the most commonly recommended treatment for vocal cord cysts that significantly alter and/or limit voice.

Laryngeal Cancer (Throat Cancer)

Dr Dennis Chua is a qualified ENT surgeon who manages throat cancer in a multidisciplinary setting.

Laryngeal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the larynx. Smoking and drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of laryngeal cancer. Signs and symptoms of laryngeal cancer include a sore throat, hoarseness, blood stained in saliva and referred ear pain. There can also be associated loss of weight and appetite. An urgent biopsy of the lump is necessary and treatment can include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or a combination of the above depending on the site and stage of the disease.

Frequently Asked
Questions

How Much Does ENT Cost in Singapore?

An ENT visit can start from $200 onwards and for repeated consultation at $180 onwards. These costs vary greatly between different ENT specialists, the clinics you visit, the severity of your condition, and the complexity of the procedure.

To find out more about or consultation rates and charges for various procedures, reach out to us via our Contact Us page and let us know more details about your condition.

What Hospital is the Best for ENT?

In Singapore, patients can choose between public hospitals and private clinics for ENT consultations. While costs may vary, the best option depends on your needs, preferences, and medical condition.

As a trusted ENT doctor at Mount Elizabeth and a MOH-accredited ear specialist, Dr Dennis Chua is well-equipped to deliver personalised, high-quality ENT care. Book an appointment today to find out how we can help manage your condition effectively.

Can I Use Medisave for ENT?

Certain ENT services are partially claimable from Medisave, depending on the type of procedure involved . For more information visit the MOH website for a detailed table on the amount claimable for each surgical procedure.

What Can I Expect On My First Visit to an ENT specialist?

During your initial visit to our ENT clinic in Singapore, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation by our ear, nose, and throat specialist. This may include a detailed discussion of your medical history, followed by a thorough examination focused on diagnosing and understanding your specific condition. Depending on your symptoms, further tests or procedures may be recommended to develop a personalised treatment plan.

Does My Condition Require a Visit to an ENT Specialist?

If you are experiencing ear, nose, or throat symptoms such as persistent sinus issues, hearing loss, throat infections, or nasal congestion, consulting an ENT specialist is advisable. Our ENT doctor at Mount Elizabeth are skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide range of ENT conditions. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, seeking timely medical advice can help manage your condition effectively and prevent complications.