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A tracheal shave, or chondrolaryngoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple. While generally safe, there is a risk of voice changes if not performed correctly. The vocal cords are attached to the thyroid cartilage, and excessive cartilage removal or accidental damage can weaken the voice, alter pitch, or affect vocal strength.
An experienced surgeon carefully removes only the necessary cartilage to maintain voice function while achieving a smoother neck contour. Temporary hoarseness may occur post-surgery, but it usually resolves with proper healing. Choosing a skilled surgeon is essential to minimise risks and ensure the best outcome.
At Centre for Surgery, our specialists prioritise both aesthetics and vocal integrity. If you’re considering a tracheal shave, we offer expert guidance to ensure safe, natural results.
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Will a Tracheal Shave Change Your Voice?
A tracheal shave, or chondrolaryngoplasty, is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the Adam’s apple by shaving down excess thyroid cartilage. While it is a relatively straightforward cosmetic surgery, it requires precision and expertise to avoid complications, particularly those affecting the voice. Since the vocal cords are attached to the thyroid cartilage, any excessive removal or accidental damage to surrounding structures could lead to hoarseness, voice weakness, or a subtle change in pitch.
The Adam’s apple is often associated with male anatomy, but both men and women have one. The difference is that during puberty, the larynx grows larger in males, resulting in a more prominent Adam’s apple and a deeper voice. This natural development is why adolescent boys often experience voice breaks before their pitch settles. Because the vocal cords are directly connected to this cartilage, altering its structure too aggressively can have unintended consequences.
Transgender women and non-binary individuals most commonly request tracheal shave surgery as part of their gender-affirming journey. However, some cisgender men and women also seek the procedure if they feel their Adam’s apple is too pronounced. The challenge in this surgery lies in achieving the desired aesthetic result while maintaining vocal integrity. The larynx may lose support if too much cartilage is removed, leading to persistent hoarseness or a weakened voice. On the other hand, if not enough is removed, the prominence of the Adam’s apple may still be noticeable, requiring further revision surgery.
To minimise the risk of voice changes, it is crucial to choose a skilled and experienced ENT surgeon who understands the delicate anatomy of the larynx. A precise approach removes only the necessary amount of cartilage while preserving vocal function. Temporary hoarseness and swelling are common after the procedure, but these typically resolve within a few weeks as healing progresses.
Tracheal Shave Procedure and Techniques
A tracheal shave is a relatively quick procedure, usually completed within an hour under general anaesthesia. It is performed as a day case, meaning patients can return home the same day. Prior to surgery, patients are advised to stop smoking or vaping and discontinue any blood-thinning medications at least one week before the operation to reduce the risk of complications.
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The surgery itself involves two different approaches, each with varying effects on scarring. The direct approach is the most commonly used, where a small incision is made on the front of the throat over the thyroid cartilage. While this may result in a visible scar, it typically fades over time. Alternatively, the indirect approach involves making a horizontal incision under the chin, where the scar is hidden within the natural skin crease. This method is often chosen for those concerned about visible scarring.
To ensure voice preservation, the surgeon carefully maps the location of the vocal cords before removing any cartilage. This is done using a specialised scope to identify their exact position on the thyroid cartilage. Once marked, the surgeon shaves down the Adam’s apple in a controlled and gradual manner, removing only as much cartilage as necessary to achieve a smooth, natural-looking neck contour. Once the desired result is achieved, the incision is carefully closed, and the patient is gently awakened from anaesthesia.
Recovery after Tracheal Shave Surgery
Recovering from a tracheal shave is generally smooth, with most patients experiencing mild to moderate swelling and bruising that can last anywhere from two to six weeks. The initial healing phase occurs within the first week, during which you may notice discomfort in the throat, particularly when swallowing or speaking. It is common to experience temporary hoarseness or a slight reduction in vocal range, but this typically resolves within four weeks as the body heals.
Many patients worry about swelling affecting their breathing, but the trachea is a strong and rigid structure that keeps the airway open. While the throat may feel sore and slightly inflamed, breathing remains unaffected. To minimise discomfort, it is advised to stick to a soft food or liquid diet for the first few days, allowing the throat to rest. Talking should be kept to a minimum, and raising the voice, shouting, or singing should be avoided for at least two weeks to prevent strain on the vocal cords.
Most people are able to return to work within a week, although this varies depending on individual healing speed and job demands. Light physical activity can be resumed after seven to ten days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks to prevent unnecessary strain on the surgical site.
Healing and Final Results
Healing from a tracheal shave is generally quick, with minimal discomfort if proper pre-operative and post-operative care instructions are followed. Although some swelling and mild voice changes may occur initially, these effects subside within a few weeks. Patients are left with a more refined and elegant neck profile as the area fully heals. The final results become more apparent as swelling diminishes, usually within two to three months.
This procedure is often included as part of facial feminisation surgery, but it is also sought by cisgender individuals who wish to reduce the prominence of their Adam’s apple. Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon is key to achieving a natural result while preserving vocal integrity. At Centre for Surgery, we ensure each procedure is performed with the highest level of precision, allowing for a smooth recovery and optimal aesthetic outcomes.
How Much Does a Tracheal Shave Cost in London?
The cost of a tracheal shave in London typically starts at around £6,000. However, the final price can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the experience of the surgeon, and the clinic where the surgery is performed. Every patient has unique anatomy and personal goals, so the extent of cartilage reduction required can influence the overall cost.
Tracheal shave surgery is a specialised procedure that requires precision to achieve a natural result while preserving vocal function. The skill and expertise of the surgeon play a significant role in both the outcome and the cost. A highly qualified surgeon with extensive experience in this type of delicate surgery may charge more, but their expertise reduces the risk of complications and ensures a smoother recovery.
At Centre for Surgery, we understand that cost is an important factor when considering surgery. To make the procedure more accessible, we offer flexible financing options, including 0% interest plans, allowing patients to spread the cost over manageable monthly payments. This helps individuals achieve their desired results without financial strain.
We recommend booking a consultation with our expert surgeons if you are considering a tracheal shave and would like a personalised cost estimate based on your specific needs. During your consultation, we will assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and provide you with a detailed breakdown of costs. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the highest standard of care, with results that enhance your confidence while maintaining your natural voice.
Tracheal Shave at Centre for Surgery
At Centre for Surgery, we specialise in tracheal shave surgery, offering expert care in a state-of-the-art setting. Our highly skilled surgeons have years of experience performing this delicate procedure, ensuring a refined, natural-looking result while prioritising vocal preservation. Whether you’re undergoing tracheal shave as part of facial feminisation surgery or simply wish to reduce the prominence of your Adam’s apple, our team provides personalised care tailored to your needs.
Our Baker Street clinic in London is equipped with the latest surgical technology, allowing us to perform tracheal shaves with precision and minimal recovery time. We understand that any cosmetic procedure is a significant decision, which is why we are committed to providing comprehensive support from consultation to post-operative care.
What Our Patients Say
Samantha R. – “I had my tracheal shave at Centre for Surgery, and I couldn’t be happier. The results are exactly what I wanted—subtle yet effective. The team made me feel so comfortable from start to finish. My voice was slightly hoarse at first, but everything returned to normal within a few weeks. Highly recommend!”
Jordan M. – “I was really nervous about this surgery because I didn’t want it to affect my voice. The surgeons were incredibly reassuring and explained everything in detail. The care I received was outstanding, and my recovery was smoother than I expected. My confidence has improved so much!”
Elena T. – “The whole experience at Centre for Surgery was fantastic. The team is so professional, and they genuinely care about your results. The consultation was thorough, and they answered all my questions. My neck profile is so much softer now, and I love how natural it looks.”
Book Your Consultation
If you’re considering a tracheal shave, we invite you to book a consultation with our expert surgeons. During your consultation, we will assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and provide a clear treatment plan tailored to your needs.
📍 Centre for Surgery – Baker Street Clinic
95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN
📞 Phone: 0207 993 4849
📧 Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com
For more details about our clinic, surgeons, and patient care philosophy, visit our About Us page.
Financing Options
We understand that cosmetic surgery is an investment, which is why we offer flexible finance plans, including 0% APR payment options through Chrysalis Finance. This allows you to spread the cost of your procedure into manageable monthly instalments.
Learn More
For additional information about our procedures and patient experiences, explore our plastic surgery blog, where we cover everything from recovery tips to the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery.
If you have any general concerns, our Clinic FAQs provide answers to common questions about surgery, recovery, and aftercare.
To meet our highly experienced team of plastic surgeons and specialists, visit our Meet the Team page.
At Centre for Surgery, we are committed to delivering the highest standard of care, ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and life-enhancing results. Contact us today to take the first step towards achieving your goals.
