By If you are unhappy with the appearance of your Adam’s apple, you may have considered getting a tracheal shave. A tracheal shave is a type of facial feminization surgery that reduces the size of the thyroid cartilage, which forms the prominent bump on the front of the throat. This procedure can help you achieve a smoother and more feminine neck contour, as well as boost your self-confidence and comfort.
In this article, we will explain what a tracheal shave is, why some people choose to have it, how it is performed, what to expect during recovery, what are the potential risks and complications, and how to find a qualified surgeon. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about this procedure.
What is a tracheal shave?
A tracheal shave is a surgical procedure that aims to reduce the size of the laryngeal prominence, or Adam’s apple, by shaving off some of the thyroid cartilage that surrounds the larynx (voice box). The thyroid cartilage is a protective structure that helps prevent damage or strain to the vocal cords. However, it can also be a source of distress for some people who feel that it makes their neck look too masculine or bulky.
A tracheal shave is also known as chondrolaryngoplasty, or thyroid cartilage reduction. It is one of the most common facial feminization surgeries, along with forehead contouring, rhinoplasty, chin reduction, jaw reduction, lip augmentation, and cheek augmentation. It is mainly sought by trans women and non-binary trans people who want to achieve a more feminine facial appearance. It can also be done by cisgender women who have a naturally enlarged Adam’s apple or who want to enhance their neck profile.
Why do some people choose to have a tracheal shave?
There are many reasons why some people may opt for a tracheal shave. Some of them are:
- To reduce gender dysphoria: Gender dysphoria is the distress that some transgender or non-binary people experience when their gender identity does not match their assigned sex at birth. A prominent Adam’s apple can be a source of gender dysphoria for some trans women and non-binary trans people who feel that it does not reflect their true gender identity. A tracheal shave can help them feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
- To improve self-esteem and social acceptance: A large Adam’s apple can also affect the self-esteem and social acceptance of some people who feel that it makes them look less attractive or feminine. A tracheal shave can help them improve their self-image and self-confidence, as well as reduce the risk of discrimination or harassment from others who may judge them based on their appearance.
- To complement other facial feminization surgeries: A tracheal shave can be done in conjunction with other facial feminization surgeries to create a more harmonious and balanced facial appearance. For example, some people may combine a tracheal shave with a forehead contouring to reduce the brow ridge, or with a rhinoplasty to reshape the nose. A tracheal shave can also enhance the results of other procedures such as chin reduction, jaw reduction, lip augmentation, or cheek augmentation.
How is a tracheal shave performed?
A tracheal shave is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means that you will be asleep and unaware of what is happening during the surgery. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete.
The surgeon will make a small incision on your neck, either under your chin or along a natural crease on your throat. The incision will be carefully placed to minimize scarring and visibility. The surgeon will then expose the thyroid cartilage and use a scalpel or a laser to shave off some of the excess cartilage until the desired size and shape are achieved. The surgeon will also check your vocal cords for any damage or injury during the procedure.
The surgeon will then close the incision with sutures and apply a dressing and bandage to protect the wound. You may also have a drain inserted to remove any excess fluid or blood from the surgical site.
What can you expect during recovery?
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored for any signs of complications or adverse reactions. You may experience some pain, swelling, bruising, numbness, or tingling in your neck area. You may also have some difficulty swallowing or speaking for a few days. Your doctor will prescribe you some painkillers and antibiotics to help you manage these symptoms and prevent infection.
You will usually be able to go home on the same day or the next day after the surgery. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours after the surgery. You will also need to follow some post-operative instructions from your doctor, such as:
- Keep your head elevated and avoid bending or twisting your neck for at least a week after the surgery.
- Avoid any strenuous activities or exercises that may put pressure on your neck for at least two weeks after the surgery.
- Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking any blood-thinning medications that may interfere with your healing process.
- Keep your incision clean and dry and change your dressing as instructed by your doctor.
- Apply ice packs or cold compresses to your neck to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Eat soft foods and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and nourished.
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes or accessories that may irritate your neck or incision.
- Follow up with your doctor regularly to monitor your healing progress and remove your sutures and drain.
The recovery time for a tracheal shave may vary depending on your individual condition and the extent of the surgery. Generally, you can expect to resume your normal activities within two to four weeks after the surgery. However, you may need to wait longer before you can see the final results of the surgery, as it may take several months for the swelling and scar tissue to subside and for the new contour of your neck to become more apparent.
What are the potential risks and complications of a tracheal shave?
As with any surgery, a tracheal shave carries some risks and complications that you should be aware of before you decide to undergo the procedure. Some of them are:
- Bleeding: You may experience some bleeding from the incision or the trachea during or after the surgery. This can usually be controlled with pressure or cauterization. However, in rare cases, you may need a blood transfusion or another surgery to stop the bleeding.
- Infection: You may develop an infection at the surgical site or in the trachea. This can cause fever, redness, swelling, pus, or foul-smelling discharge from the wound. You may need to take antibiotics or have another surgery to treat the infection.
- Scarring: You may have some visible scarring on your neck from the incision. This can fade over time with proper wound care and sun protection. However, some people may have more noticeable or keloid scars that may require further treatment such as steroid injections or laser therapy.
- Nerve damage: You may experience some nerve damage during the surgery that may affect your sensation or movement in your neck area. This can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, or paralysis of some muscles in your neck or face. This can usually improve over time with physical therapy or medication. However, in some cases, the nerve damage may be permanent or require further surgery to repair.
- Vocal cord damage: You may experience some vocal cord damage during the surgery that may affect your voice quality or pitch. This can cause hoarseness, breathiness, loss of range, or difficulty speaking or singing. This can usually improve over time with voice therapy or medication. However, in some cases, the vocal cord damage may be permanent or require further surgery to repair.
How to find a qualified surgeon for a tracheal shave?
If you are interested in having a tracheal shave, you should consult with a qualified surgeon who has experience and expertise in performing this procedure. You should look for a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial feminization surgery and who has performed many tracheal shaves before. You should also ask for before-and-after photos of their previous patients who have had similar procedures and who have similar goals and expectations as you.
You should also discuss with your surgeon about your medical history, your reasons for wanting a tracheal shave, your expectations and goals from the surgery, the risks and benefits of the procedure, the cost and financing options, and the recovery process. You should feel comfortable and confident with your surgeon and their staff and have all your questions and concerns addressed before you decide to go ahead with the surgery.
Conclusion
A tracheal shave is a facial feminization surgery that can help you achieve a smoother and more feminine neck contour by reducing the size of your Adam’s apple. It can also help you reduce gender dysphoria, improve self-esteem and social acceptance, and complement other facial feminization surgeries.
A tracheal shave is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete. The recovery time is about two to four weeks, but it may take several months to see the final results. The procedure carries some risks and complications such as bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve damage, or vocal cord damage.
If you are interested in having a tracheal shave, you should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial feminization surgery and who has performed many tracheal shaves before. You should also discuss with your surgeon about your medical history, your reasons for wanting a tracheal shave, your expectations and goals from the surgery, the risks and benefits of the procedure, the cost and financing options, and the recovery process.
A tracheal shave can be a life-changing option for some people who want to achieve a more feminine facial appearance. However, it is not a decision that should be taken lightly, as it involves some risks and complications that may affect your health and well-being. Therefore, you should do your research, consult with a qualified surgeon, and weigh the pros and cons before you decide to have a tracheal shave.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about tracheal shave:
- Q: How much does a tracheal shave cost?
- A: The cost of a tracheal shave may vary depending on the surgeon, the location, the extent of the surgery, and the type of anesthesia. According to [RealSelf], a website that provides information and reviews on cosmetic procedures, the average cost of a tracheal shave in the United States is about $5,000. However, this does not include other expenses such as consultation fees, hospital fees, medication, or aftercare. You should ask your surgeon for a detailed quote before you book your surgery.
- Q: Will a tracheal shave affect my voice?
- A: A tracheal shave may affect your voice in some ways. For example, it may cause temporary hoarseness, breathiness, or loss of range due to swelling or inflammation of the vocal cords. It may also cause permanent changes in your voice quality or pitch due to damage or injury to the vocal cords or the surrounding structures. However, these effects are rare and usually mild if the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon who uses precise techniques and instruments. You should discuss with your surgeon about the possible impact of a tracheal shave on your voice and how to prevent or treat any complications.
- Q: How long will the results of a tracheal shave last?
- A: The results of a tracheal shave are usually permanent, as the cartilage that is removed does not grow back. However, some factors may affect the longevity of the results, such as aging, weight changes, hormonal fluctuations, or trauma. You should maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow your surgeon’s instructions to preserve the results of your surgery.
- Q: Can I have a tracheal shave without hormones?
- A: Yes, you can have a tracheal shave without hormones if you are not planning to undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or if you are not eligible for HRT due to medical reasons. However, you should be aware that hormones can affect the size and shape of your Adam’s apple, as well as other facial features such as skin texture, hair growth, fat distribution, and muscle tone. Therefore, you may need to have other facial feminization surgeries or procedures to achieve your desired facial appearance.
- Q: Can I have a tracheal shave with other surgeries?
- A: Yes, you can have a tracheal shave with other surgeries if you want to enhance or modify other aspects of your facial appearance. For example, you can combine a tracheal shave with a forehead contouring to reduce the brow ridge, or with a rhinoplasty to reshape the nose. You can also have a tracheal shave with other procedures such as chin reduction, jaw reduction, lip augmentation, or cheek augmentation. However, you should consult with your surgeon about the best timing and sequence of these surgeries or procedures to avoid any complications or interference with your healing process.