Unusual Neck Issues Post-Surgery
I'm a 24-year-old Caucasian female residing in Europe, standing at 169 cm and weighing 65 kg. I have type I Von Willebrand disease, but no other medical conditions are noteworthy. Last December, I underwent surgery to remove a thyroglossal duct cyst, which was approximately 5x5 cm in size. Since that operation, I've been experiencing some peculiar sensations in my neck. My neck appears noticeably indented, and my Adam's apple seems significantly larger than before. Additionally, I've been dealing with a constant dry sensation in my throat and occasionally have difficulty swallowing, which feels strange. I'm hoping to find at least a cosmetic remedy for these changes, yet no one has been able to assist me thus far. I'm starting to wonder if I should consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Would they have the expertise to address these concerns?
Answers (1)
7/12/2025, 1:10:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning and distressing changes following your surgery for a thyroglossal duct cyst. These changes, such as the indentation in your neck, the prominence of your Adam's apple, and throat discomfort, should be taken seriously. Here’s a structured approach to your situation:
Key Points:
- Post-surgery changes in the neck can happen, and your symptoms need to be carefully assessed.
- An ENT specialist is indeed the right professional to evaluate these changes and suggest appropriate treatment options.
Explanation:
The surgical removal of a thyroglossal duct cyst can sometimes lead to changes in the surrounding anatomy. An indentation and a change in the appearance of your Adam's apple could be due to surgical adjustments or healing processes affecting the surrounding tissues. The constant dry sensation in your throat and difficulty swallowing may relate to nerve changes, scar tissue formation, or other factors but should be evaluated further.
Next Steps:
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Seek an ENT Specialist: Schedule an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat specialist. They have the expertise to examine your neck thoroughly and assess the cause of your symptoms. They may perform imaging tests if needed to see what’s happening internally.
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Document Your Symptoms: Before your appointment, keep a diary of your symptoms. Note when they occur, their duration, and any triggering factors. This documentation can help the specialist better understand your condition.
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Hydration and Throat Care: In the meantime, ensure you’re staying hydrated and consider using a humidifier to help alleviate the dry sensation in your throat. Gentle throat lozenges can also provide temporary relief.
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Explore Cosmetic Options: Depending on the results from your ENT consultation, the specialist can advise if any cosmetic procedures are feasible for addressing the appearance of your neck and other concerns.
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Follow-Up: Stay proactive in following up on any recommendations your ENT provides and consider seeking a second opinion if you feel your concerns aren’t fully addressed.
Please remember that your symptoms are valid, and seeking medical advice is a positive step toward finding relief. Let me know if you have further questions or need additional guidance!
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