Trachea Shave Surgery (Feminizing adam’s apple reduction)

Trachea Shave Surgery (Adam’s Apple or Thyroid Cartilage Shaving)

Understanding Trachea Shave Surgery

A prominent thyroid cartilage, or Adam’s apple, can be a source of embarrassment for male-to-female transgender individuals. The demand for reducing and contouring the prominent Adam’s apple continues to increase. The results of this surgery are effective, satisfying, and long-lasting.

Surgical Technique

Trachea shave surgery can be done as an outpatient procedure. Sedation may be given to ensure comfort and relaxation during the surgery.

The mini-incision (2-2.5 cm) is typically placed on the upper crease of the neck skin below the sub-mental (chin) area, making the scar almost imperceptible in most cases. The thyroid cartilage is exposed and marked with cauterization. The cartilage is then reduced, usually by shaving the most prominent area and the rim of its upper border.

Thyroid cartilage contouring is a delicate process, especially for individuals with calcified (hard) cartilage due to aging. All bleeding points are meticulously checked and stopped. The surgery takes about 45 minutes to complete.

Postoperative Recovery

During the first 24-48 hours, you may experience some swelling. A few patients may have mild voice weakness in the first few days following surgery, but this is not a significant long-term problem.

Possible Complications

One potential complication is a change in voice if over-dissection occurs. It is crucial to reduce the cartilage just enough to decrease the prominence without over-resecting. Taking it too deep may injure the vocal cords, leading to a permanent change in voice.

Benefits of Trachea Shave Surgery

Trachea shave surgery can significantly improve the confidence and comfort of transgender women by reducing the prominence of the Adam’s apple. The procedure offers a more feminine neck profile, contributing to a more harmonious and gender-affirming appearance.