At Tran Plastic Surgery, we specialize in advanced surgical procedures that help patients achieve their authentic selves. A tracheal shave also known as Adam’s apple reduction, chondrolaryngoplasty, or thyroid cartilage reduction is a transformative procedure designed to reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple, creating a smoother, more feminine or gender-neutral neckline.
For many transgender women and non-binary individuals, a visible Adam’s apple can be one of the most noticeable gendered features. By refining the contour of the throat, this procedure can significantly enhance confidence, align appearance with identity, and complete the goals of gender confirmation surgery.
Why Consider a Tracheal Shave?
The Adam’s apple is a natural part of the larynx, formed by the thyroid cartilage. In many cisgender men, this cartilage is larger and more prominent, especially after puberty. For those transitioning from male to female or to a non-binary identity, the Adam’s apple can feel incongruent with how they want to present themselves.
A tracheal shave can:
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Soften the neck contour for a more feminine or neutral profile.
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Reduce gender dysphoria by addressing a highly visible masculine feature.
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Complement other facial feminization or gender-affirming procedures.
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Improve everyday confidence in social, professional, and personal settings.
Patients often pursue this procedure alongside other feminization surgeries, such as jaw reshaping or vaginoplasty (MTF), to achieve a holistic transformation.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for a tracheal shave are healthy adults who:
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Have a prominent Adam’s apple they wish to reduce.
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Are seeking a more feminine or androgynous appearance.
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Have realistic expectations about results.
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Understand the risks and recovery process involved.
Before surgery, Dr. Tuan Tran will review your medical history, perform an examination, and may request a psychiatric evaluation as part of gender-affirming care requirements. Additional pre-surgical assessments such as bloodwork and an EKG may also be required.
If you are on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), you may need to pause treatment for a short period before and after the procedure for safety reasons. Dr. Tran will provide tailored guidance to ensure the best outcome.
The Tran Plastic Surgery Difference
Choosing the right surgeon for a tracheal shave is essential. The thyroid cartilage is closely positioned to the vocal cords, and precision is critical to ensure natural-looking results without compromising voice quality.
At Tran Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tuan Tran brings extensive experience in gender-affirming surgery, a meticulous surgical technique, and a compassionate approach to care.
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Expertise in complex procedures: Dr. Tran is a board-certified surgeon with years of experience in transgender and reconstructive surgery.
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Aesthetic precision: The incision is carefully hidden in a natural neck crease, minimizing visible scarring.
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Patient-first philosophy: From consultation through recovery, every step is personalized to your unique goals and health needs.
Learn more about Dr. Tran’s background and qualifications here: Meet Dr. Tuan Tran.
How the Tracheal Shave Procedure Works
A tracheal shave is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia.
Step-by-Step Overview:
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Anesthesia – Patients are safely put under general anesthesia for comfort.
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Incision – A small, discreet incision is made in a natural skin crease at the base of the neck.
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Visualization – Dr. Tran may use an endoscope to visualize the cartilage and surrounding structures for added precision.
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Cartilage Reduction – The thyroid cartilage (Adam’s apple) is carefully shaved down, reducing its projection while protecting the vocal cords.
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Closure – The incision is sutured closed, leaving a fine scar that typically becomes nearly invisible over time.
The entire surgery usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour if performed alone. Many patients choose to combine it with other procedures for comprehensive results.
Recovery and Healing
Every patient’s recovery timeline is unique, but most can expect:
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Initial Recovery: Mild swelling, soreness, and bruising for the first several days.
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Voice Rest: Temporary voice weakness or hoarseness may occur as tissues heal. Patients are advised to avoid singing or yelling.
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Downtime: Most patients return to light activities within 2–3 days and resume normal routines within a week.
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Follow-up: A post-operative visit is scheduled within 5–7 days to monitor healing and remove sutures if necessary.
Common side effects include:
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Mild pain or discomfort
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Swelling and bruising
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Sore throat or difficulty swallowing
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Temporary voice changes
These are temporary and improve with proper rest, icing, and medication. Patients are also encouraged to use silicone scar sheets to enhance incision healing.
Expected Results
Once swelling subsides, patients notice an immediate reduction in the size of the Adam’s apple. The neck profile appears smoother and more feminine or neutral. Over time, the incision scar fades and is generally undetectable unless the neck is stretched upward.
Most importantly, patients report a profound boost in self-confidence and comfort in their gender expression.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, a tracheal shave carries potential risks, though they are minimized when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Tran. These may include:
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Infection or bleeding
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Prolonged hoarseness
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Scar visibility
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Rare voice changes
Dr. Tran takes every precaution to safeguard your vocal cords and ensure natural-looking results. All risks, benefits, and alternatives will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
Cost and Insurance
In California, many insurance providers including CalOptima cover a tracheal shave as part of gender-affirming surgery. Coverage depends on your policy, medical necessity, and whether the procedure is part of a larger transition plan.
Our office will help you navigate insurance approval and provide transparent cost estimates if you are paying out of pocket.
Why Patients Choose Tran Plastic Surgery
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Inclusive Care: We proudly serve transgender women, non-binary individuals, and anyone seeking facial feminization or reconstructive surgery.
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Comprehensive Options: In addition to tracheal shave, patients often combine procedures such as jaw reshaping, forehead contouring, or chin reduction for enhanced results.
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Personalized Support: From your first consultation to post-surgery recovery, our team provides compassionate, affirming care.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
A tracheal shave can be an empowering part of your transition and self-expression. Whether performed alone or as part of a broader feminization plan, it offers lasting results and renewed confidence.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your consultation:
Tran Plastic Surgery Contact Page
Or call us directly at 714-839-8000.
Our team in Huntington Beach, CA is here to guide you through every step of the journey.
*References:
✍️ Facial feminization surgery male-to-female. (n.d.). American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Retrieved from plasticsurgery.org/reconstructive-procedures/facial-feminization-surgery/preparation
✍️ Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019, September 11). Facial feminization surgery. May Clinic. Retrieved from
mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/facial-feminization-surgery/about/pac-20467962
✍️ Tracheal shave of Adam’s apple reduction. (2020, July 6). Dr. Amir Hosein Mofrad. Retrieved from https://www.drmofradclinic.com/en/4256/tracheal-shave-or-adams-apple-reduction/
✍️ Vashishta, R. (2017, December 7). Larynx anatomy. Medscape. Retrieved from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1949369-overview#:~:text=The%20thyroid%20cartilage%20is%20the,known%20as%20the%20Adam’s%20apple.