Insights from Dr. Shama S. Kovale – A Leading Specialist for Voice and Swallowing Treatment in Mumbai
As a medical journalist, I’ve often explored the silent struggles that affect people’s daily lives. One such issue that doesn’t get nearly enough attention is voice and swallowing disorders. These are not only medical problems but can deeply affect one’s confidence, career, and quality of life. To learn more, I visited Dr. Shama S. Kovale, a leading ENT expert renowned for Voice and Swallowing Treatment in Mumbai, at her clinic, Voice of ENT, affiliated with Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.
Meeting Dr. Shama S. Kovale – Expertise and Empathy in Perfect Harmony
Dr. Shama S. Kovale is a distinguished ENT and Voice Specialist with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing complex laryngeal and swallowing disorders. A graduate of top Indian medical institutions, she holds an MBBS and MS in Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), followed by advanced training in Voice, Airway, and Swallowing Disorders.
At her Voice of ENT Clinic, she employs state-of-the-art diagnostic tools such as video laryngoscopy, stroboscopy, and FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) to identify the root causes of issues that might otherwise go undetected. Her holistic approach includes both medical and rehabilitative treatments, tailored to each patient’s lifestyle and needs.
When I asked her what drew her to this niche field, she smiled and said,
“The voice is not just sound—it’s identity. When someone loses their voice or the ability to swallow comfortably, it affects them physically and emotionally. Helping restore that function is deeply rewarding.”
Common Causes and Treatments for Voice and Swallowing Problems
Dr. Kovale explained that voice and swallowing disorders can result from a variety of conditions, including:
- Vocal cord nodules or paralysis
- Acid reflux (GERD-related laryngitis)
- Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease
- Post-surgical or post-radiation changes
- Psychological or stress-related factors
Treatment at Voice of ENT may include:
- Voice therapy with speech-language pathologists
- Microlaryngoscopic surgery for lesion removal
- Swallowing rehabilitation exercises
- Lifestyle and dietary modification for reflux-related symptoms
The clinic’s multidisciplinary setup allows for seamless coordination between ENT specialists, speech therapists, and gastroenterologists, ensuring a comprehensive recovery process.
Comparing Indian and International Standards of Care
When discussing how her work compares globally, Dr. Kovale noted that Indian ENT specialists are now using diagnostic and surgical technologies on par with leading centers in the U.S., Germany, and Singapore.
For example, internationally, professionals like Dr. Robert Sataloff in Philadelphia and Dr. Ingo Titze in Utah are known pioneers in voice medicine. In India, experts such as Dr. Sumit Mrig in Delhi and Dr. Shama S. Kovale in Mumbai are elevating standards of ENT care with similar precision and patient-focused methodologies.
“The only difference,” Dr. Kovale observed, “is accessibility. In India, treatments that would cost several thousand dollars abroad are available here at a fraction of the price—without compromising quality.”
Pros and Cons of Voice and Swallowing Treatments
Every medical intervention comes with benefits and challenges. Dr. Kovale was candid in explaining both sides:
Pros:
- Restoration of clear and confident voice quality
- Improvement in swallowing comfort and nutrition
- Minimally invasive procedures with short recovery times
- Non-surgical options available for early cases
Cons:
- Recovery can be gradual, requiring consistent therapy
- Post-treatment vocal rest is often essential
- Underlying chronic conditions (like reflux or nerve injury) may need long-term management
She emphasized that patience and compliance with aftercare instructions play a crucial role in treatment success.
Cost Comparison: Mumbai vs. International Centers
In Mumbai, Voice and Swallowing Treatment costs can vary depending on the cause and treatment type. Diagnostic procedures such as stroboscopy range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000, while voice therapy sessions typically cost between ₹1,500 and ₹3,000 per session. Surgical treatments like microlaryngoscopy can range from ₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakh.
Internationally, similar treatments may cost USD 2,000 to 10,000 (₹1.6–8 lakh), often excluding follow-up therapy sessions.
Dr. Kovale pointed out that “India’s advantage lies not just in affordability but in continuity of care. Here, follow-ups and rehabilitation are more personalized, and that makes a big difference.”
Precautions and Aftercare: Advice from Dr. Kovale
Dr. Kovale shared several key aftercare and preventive guidelines for patients undergoing voice and swallowing treatment:
- Avoid vocal strain – rest your voice after therapy or surgery.
- Stay hydrated – water helps maintain vocal cord flexibility.
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and smoking, which can irritate the throat.
- Manage reflux through dietary adjustments and medication if prescribed.
- Follow prescribed exercises by the speech therapist consistently.
She added, “It’s not just about curing the problem—it’s about preventing it from recurring. A few lifestyle changes can go a long way.”
Final Thoughts
My conversation with Dr. Shama S. Kovale highlighted how modern ENT care in India has evolved into a blend of science, skill, and empathy. Her clinic, Voice of ENT, represents a center of excellence where patients receive not only advanced medical care but also emotional reassurance.
For anyone struggling with persistent hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, or vocal fatigue, early consultation can make a remarkable difference. As Dr. Kovale aptly said,
“Your voice is your identity. Don’t wait until silence becomes your normal.”
For those seeking specialized Voice and Swallowing Treatment in Mumbai, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Voice of ENT offer care that is both globally competent and locally compassionate.
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