Tracheal Shave Seattle
What is a Tracheal Shave or Chondrolaryngoplasty?
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The process of gender transition from male to female (MTF) frequently includes a medical procedure called the chondrolaryngoplasty, more commonly known as a “tracheal shave.” This surgical procedure reduces the cartilage of a patient’s Adam’s apple to create a smoother, less angular, and more feminine appearance. Tracheal shave surgery is delicate and calls for an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Javad Sajan.
Overview:
Refining
Your Appearance
The tracheal shave is considered one of the more common surgical procedures for MTF transgender patients. You may feel that your Adam’s apple will be way too prominent as you segue into your more feminized appearance. MTF patients who opt to have the tracheal shave procedure find this to be a long-lasting and emotionally and physically satisfying decision. The procedure is also frequently part of a facial feminization surgery.
The precise nature of the tracheal shave procedure is due to the position of the vocal cords located directly behind the cartilage of your Adam’s apple. The procedure pares down but does not remove the entire cartilage and it is imperative that the procedure remove just enough of the most prominent area of cartilage without compromising the vocal cords and the integrity of the trachea.
Consultation with Dr. Sajan
If you decide you’d like to learn more about the tracheal shave procedure, your first step will be to have an initial consultation with Dr. Sajan. During that meeting, he will talk to you about your motivations for surgery and the precise cosmetic objectives you’d like to accomplish. From there, he will examine your neck to determine to achieve your desired look.
Once the examination is complete, Dr. Sajan will counsel you on exactly what to expect throughout the entire surgical experience – from your pre-operative appointments to the recovery and healing process. Ask as many questions as you want during this time, as it’s important to be well-informed about the procedure, anticipated outcomes and potential complications before scheduling the operation. Once Dr. Sajan is confident that you’re comfortable with his treatment plan, he will move forward with the rest of your pre-operative appointments.
Overview:
Your Tracheal
Shave Surgery
Your surgery will be done on an outpatient basis in our state-licensed surgery center. It is a relatively brief procedure and does not require an overnight hospital stay. An anesthesiologist will administer a combination intravenous sedation and anesthesia. You will be monitored throughout the procedure and recovery period for your safety and comfort.
Dr. Sajan will make a small incision at an upper crease or wrinkle of your neck (to minimize the visibility of the small scar). He will locate the vocal cords with the aid of a tiny video camera, expose the thyroid cartilage and shave/remove the most prominent point of the cartilage. Great care will be taken at all times to protect the vocal cords. The incision will be closed with sutures and bandaged.
Some bruising and swelling is common after a tracheal shave and you may have a slightly sore throat. These discomforts are usually minor and dissipate within the first 24 – 48 hours. You will be encouraged to rest your voice as much as possible and apply an ice pack to the surgery site. The results of your procedure will be nearly immediate and will continue to evolve over the coming weeks as your healing process resolves.
Dr. Sajan will provide detailed instructions for your recovery, oral and topical medications, activity level(s), and follow-up appointments. Carefully following these instructions will help facilitate your recovery and optimize the results.
Continuing Your MTF Journey
A tracheal shave may be only one procedure in your MTF journey. The results can provide a smoother, more feminine-appearing neck and help increase your confidence in presenting a more natural, feminine appearance. When it’s time to explore tracheal shave surgery and how it can benefit you in your transition, contact Dr. Sajan’s office and book a consultation appointment.
Allure Esthetic Plastic Surgery
600 Broadway Suite 320 G
Seattle, WA 98122