Dear lynkidd,
I have a tracheotomy after having radiation, covid twice, etc. My vocal cords are bilaterally paralyzed. The lymphedema started up when I began using the humidifier with the chinstrap. Soon, I realized that any sort of trauma--even slight--would bring on the lymphedema. The chinstrap was causing the lymphedema to activate. One ENT had me try a newer type of trach device. it basically looks like a swimming pool plug and has no tube. It is supposed to keep the opening from healing shut. However, since there was no tube, I could not suction out the mucus very well. Also, getting it to "snap" (two little silicone tabs) into the opening, was difficult and painful. After wearing it for a short while, the lymphedema around my trach opening and neck puffed way out. I have learned to be very gentle in that area. So, no more chinstrap, and back to a regular trach-tube. Best wishes to you and yours.