Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) and the
Trachea Shave
A prominent trachea or Adam’s apple can be embarrassing for a woman.
A trachea shave can be an effective, satisfying and long-lasting solution
to this problem. A trachea shave is a delicate process especially for those
who have hard cartilage due to the aging process.
Trachea Shave Procedure
- A trachea shave can be out patient surgery
- Sedation may be given
- A mini-incision is placed on upper the crease of neck skin below the chin for a better chance to hide a scar
- Thyroid cartilage is exposed and reduced, usually by shaving the most prominent area and the rim of its upper border
- All bleeding points are carefully checked and stopped
- An experienced surgeon will use special equipment to make certain that the voice will not change from this procedure.
- A small amount of steroid may be placed in the wound to keep the scarring to a minimum
- It takes about 3/4 hour to complete the surgery
Trachea Shave Recovery
- During the first 24-48 hours swelling may occur
- Mild voice weakness may occur in the first few days after surgery, but should not be long-term
- Ice pack applied to the treated area for a couple of day is always recommended
Possible Trachea Shave Complication
- The voice may change
- Thick scars may occur
- If the trachea is cut too deep the vocal cords may be cut, and will most likely permanently change the voice
