Tracheal Shave

How is a tracheal shave integral to facial feminization?

An Adam’s apple is perhaps the most obvious and recognizable aspect of male anatomy, and it can telegraph a disconnect between one’s physicality and one’s chosen gender, causing undue anxiety and social discomfort. Therefore, the tracheal shave (or chondrolaryngoplasty, as it’s medical term) is among the most necessary component of successful facial feminization. The tracheal shave helps to reduce the unwanted cartilage in the Adam’s apple for a smoother, more elegant and attractive female neck.

How is a tracheal shave performed?

During the procedure, your surgeon will create a small incision above the Adam’s apple in a well-concealed area of the neck. The protrusion of the thyroid cartilage is then gently reduced to achieve a more feminine-looking neck contour. While the tracheal shave can be performed fairly quickly, it still requires the artistry, skill, safety, and expertise of a transgender surgical authority such as Dr. Satterwhite, Dr. Gurjala, and Dr. Pang in San Francisco.

Dr. Satterwhite is not only an amazing surgeon, but has the most admirable bedside manner. He is Stanford educated and is patient beyond belief. He treats every patient with respect and tailors each and every surgery to his patient's needs. He is a 5-star surgeon!

What advantages does a tracheal shave provide?

Perfect preservation of the vocal cords
A more feminine, inviting profile
A smoother, more elegant neck
Improved self-confidence and congruence
Long-lasting outcome
A natural appearance

What advantages does a tracheal shave provide?

Any transwoman or gender non-conforming patient who suffers from a prominent Adam’s apple and is unhappy with their appearance may be a good candidate for a tracheal shave. Our surgeons simply require that you be in good health, emotionally and physically, and that you be a non-smoker with realistic expectations for your results.

What will my recovery entail?

The tracheal shave has a fairly swift and uneventful recovery for most clients. Sutures will dissolve gradually, and you will receive the necessary prescription pain medications from our surgeons to help control any discomfort. You will be asked to rest your voice for around 2 weeks after your surgery.

What are the fees for a tracheal shave in San Francisco?

Costs for an Adam’s apple reduction will depend on the approach chosen and the complexity of the work performed, as well as on the anesthesia, facility fees and surgeon’s fees. Dr. Satterwhite, Dr. Pang, and Dr. Gurjala will provide you with a detailed, customized quote at the time of your private consultation in San Francisco.

Why Align Surgical?

Beneath the thyroid cartilage lies the vocal cords, so the tracheal shave is a very delicate procedure requiring meticulous care and precision. Removing either too much or too little cartilage can have an undesirable impact. It is important to choose a facial feminization surgeon who is highly skilled and nuanced, and has a track record of excellence. Dr. Satterwhite, Dr. Pang, and Dr. Gurjala are precision-minded, experienced, and compassionate plastic surgeons who will ensure flawless results perfectly tailored to your wishes.

Dr. Satterwhite, the founder of Align Surgical, is an award-winning plastic surgeon who completed a demanding residency in plastic surgery at Stanford Hospital, followed by an elite fellowship in craniofacial surgery in Miami, FL. He contributes frequently to industry literature and is found on the lecture circuit sharing his experience with other surgeons from all over the globe.