Side effects and complications of velopharyngeal surgery

Although velopharyngeal surgery is generally safe, complications are not uncommon. This article reviews the major complications occurring in the postoperative period and the severe late complications such as velopharyngeal incompetence and nasopharyngeal stenosis. Most of these complications can be prevented by a careful operative technique and preoperative evaluation. We also emphasise the frequency of minor modifications of voice, swallowing, taste and velopharyngeal function.