Surgery to Reduce a prominent Adam’s Apple
Adam’s apple reduction surgery, also known as chondrolaryngoplasty or tracheal shave, is a cosmetic procedure designed to reduce the prominence of Adam’s apple in the neck.
Dr Stephen Kleid is an experienced surgeon in Australia performing this procedure. Read on to learn more about a tracheal shave, its reasons patients choose, things to consider, the procedure, recovery, and more.
What is a Tracheal Shave?
Chondrolaryngoplasty, also known as tracheal shave, is a procedure to reduce the prominence of the thyroid cartilage by trimming the cartilage and bone through a small incision on the neck (beneath the chin) to decrease the prominence of the Adam’s Apple.
Adam’s apple reduction surgery is a frequently sought-after procedure in the facial feminisation process for patients transitioning from male to female. However, it is not limited to gender transition cases. Both cisgender men and women may opt for this surgery if they feel uncomfortable with the prominence of their Adam’s apple.
Am I a candidate for Adam’s Apple reduction surgery?
Candidates for Adam’s apple reduction surgery, may include individuals who:
- Desire a less prominent Adam’s apple
- Those who seek this procedure often want to achieve a smoother and less prominent neck contour.
- Have a stable medical condition
- Candidates should be in good overall health and have no active medical issues that could pose risks during surgery.
- Have realistic expectations
- It is essential for candidates to have reasonable expectations about the outcomes of the procedure and understand that the goal is to reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple, not eliminate it.
- Are mentally and emotionally prepared
- Undergoing any surgical procedure requires emotional readiness and a clear understanding of the potential risks and benefits.
- Have attained physical maturity
- Candidates should generally be at least 18 years old or have completed their physical development.
It is crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a specialist experienced in Adam’s apple reduction to determine eligibility and discuss the procedure in detail. Each candidate’s situation is unique, and a thorough assessment by a qualified medical professional is necessary to determine if they are a suitable candidate for Adam’s apple reduction surgery.
The surgeon will consider the patient’s medical history, overall health, aesthetic goals, and expectations before recommending the appropriate treatment plan.
Why might patients consider Adam’s apple reduction?
- Altered neck contour: The surgery aims to reduce the size of the Adam’s apple, resulting in an altered neck profile.
- Small incisions: Tracheal shave is typically performed with small incisions, often in discrete locations, with the aim of minimal visible scarring.
- Outpatient procedure: In many cases, the surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for a relatively smooth recovery and minimal disruption to daily activities.
- Long-lasting results: The reduction in Adam’s apple prominence achieved through the procedure is generally permanent.
It is essential for prospective patients to discuss their specific goals and expectations with a qualified surgeon during a consultation. The surgeon can provide personalised advice and guidance based on the individual’s unique circumstances to ensure they have a clear understanding of the potential outcomes and risks associated with the procedure.
Risks and Potential Complications of Adams Apple Reduction
Like any surgical procedure, Adam’s apple reduction surgery carries some risks and potential complications. Patients need to be aware of these before deciding to undergo the surgery. Some of the possible risks include:
- Infection
- Excessive bleeding
- Scarring
- Nerve damage
- Voice changes
- Delayed wound healing
- Unsatisfactory results
- Allergic reactions
- Hematoma
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Visit our Risks and Complication page for more information
Patients must discuss any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns with their surgeon before the procedure. A qualified and experienced surgeon will assess the patient’s health and suitability for the surgery and provide guidance to minimise risks and potential complications. It is essential to weigh the outcomes and risks carefully and make an informed decision about undergoing Adam’s apple reduction surgery.
Adam’s Apple Reduction Before & After
What can I expect during Tracheal Shave?
The Adam’s apple reduction surgery typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes and involves the following steps:
- Anaesthesia: The patient will receive general anaesthesia to ensure a comfortable and pain-free experience during the procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision either directly in the existing crease of the neck, under the chin, or in an inconspicuous location. (the incision location will be discussed before surgery)
- Cartilage reduction: Through the incision, the surgeon carefully shaves down or trims the cartilage of the thyroid prominence (Adam’s apple) to reduce its size and prominence.
- Closure: After achieving the desired reduction, the incisions are meticulously closed. Dr Kleid closes the incision with buried dissolving sutures and applies a light skin dressing.
- Recovery: The patient is monitored in a recovery area and may be discharged the same day or after a short period.
- Healing process: Patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions in order to help minimise swelling and bruising.
- Results: As the swelling subsides, patients can gradually observe the desired reduction in the size and prominence of their Adam’s apple.
It is important to note that each patient’s experience may vary, and the surgeon will provide specific pre-operative and post-operative instructions tailored to the individual’s needs and medical history. As with any surgery, potential risks and complications should be discussed with the surgeon during the consultation process.
Recovery after Adams Apple Reduction Surgery
Recovery after Adam’s apple reduction surgery, typically involves the following stages and considerations:
Immediate post-operative period
For monitoring, patients will either stay in the hospital overnight, or at least 8 hours (if they have no Insurance), to observe for intra-laryngeal swelling and breathing difficulties.
The surgeon will provide specific instructions on wound care, keeping the surgical site clean, and changing dressings. It is crucial to follow these guidelines to prevent infections and promote proper healing.
Pain, swelling and bruising
After the surgery, patients may experience some mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the surgical site. The surgical incision site may also be tender. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to help manage any pain or discomfort.
Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and may last for several days or weeks. Using cold compresses and keeping the head elevated while resting can help reduce swelling.
Rest and recovery at home
Patients should plan for a few days of rest at home following the procedure. Avoid strenuous activities and take time to rest during the initial recovery period.
Returning to work and daily activities
Depending on the individual’s healing process and the nature of their work, patients can usually return to non-strenuous activities within a week or two. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for a few weeks or as advised by the surgeon.
Follow-up appointments
Depending on the individual’s healing process and the nature of their work, patients can usually return to non-strenuous activities within a week or two. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for a few weeks or as advised by the surgeon.
Patients will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or questions during the recovery period.
Results
As the swelling continues to subside over the following weeks and months, patients will notice the gradual and final results of the Adam’s apple reduction surgery.
It is essential for patients to strictly adhere to their surgeon’s post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve a suitable outcome. If there are any unusual symptoms or concerns during the recovery process, patients should promptly contact their surgeon or medical provider for guidance.
Adam’s Apple Surgery FAQs – Frequently asked questions about Laryngoplasty Surgery
Why do I have Adam’s apple if I’m a girl?
The presence of an Adam’s apple in females is entirely normal and not uncommon. The Adam’s apple, medically known as the laryngeal prominence, is a visible part of the thyroid cartilage in the neck, which is part of the larynx (voice box). It is usually more visible in males due to hormonal differences during puberty.
During puberty, both boys and girls experience changes in their larynx, but the changes are more significant in males. This is why the Adam’s apple tends to be more prominent in men, giving them a more noticeable neck bump. In females, the laryngeal prominence is usually less pronounced, but it is still present.
Does the size of your Adam’s apple mean anything?
- No. The size of Adam’s apple varies from one person to another.
- Bigger Adam’s apple simply means some people develop a larger voice box than others.
Why is my Adam’s apple swollen?
- Adam’s apple may appear swollen due to goiter i.e. an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland.
- Goitre is located in the neck, just below Adam’s apple.
- The most common symptoms of goiter are tension and tightness in the throat.
- Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing and/or swallowing and swelling in the front of the throat and neck. That’s why your Adam’s apple may seem swollen too.
Does reducing the your Adam’s apple prominence change your voice?
- The operation does not change the pitch of the voice, but a might cause a few weeks of “gruffness”.
Which portion of the larynx is Adam’s apple?
- The thyroid cartilage is the portion of the larynx known as Adam’s apple. More precisely, the anterior portion of thyroid cartilage can be felt as this structure. It is a cartilaginous “shield” that protects the vocal cords.
What is the name of Adam’s apple?
- The medical name for Adam’s apple is laryngeal prominence.
What is a larynx?
- The larynx, also known as the voice box or glottis, is the area of the throat that connects the throat to a windpipe (trachea). Air passes through the larynx on its way to the lungs. The larynx houses the vocal cords, meaning it is also responsible for creating sound for the voice.
How old do you have to be to have Laryngoplasty?
- Facial surgeries are generally not performed on persons under the age of 18.
- There is no set maximum age for this procedure. It depends on the overall health of the patient, which is discussed during the consultation.
Are there Non-surgical alternatives to Adams Apple Reduction Surgery?
- Currently, there are no non-surgical alternatives that can permanently reduce the size of the Adam’s apple.
- The prominence of the Adam’s apple is primarily due to the size of the thyroid cartilage, and only surgical procedures can effectively modify its appearance.
- Some temporary solutions, such as makeup shading techniques or wearing clothing that conceals the neck area, may help visually minimise the prominence of Adam’s apple. However, these methods are not permanent and do not physically alter the cartilage.
Medical References and Further reading
- Patient Satisfaction after Aesthetic Chondrolaryngoplasty – Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open
- Esthetic reduction of the thyroid cartilage: A systematic review of chondrolaryngoplasty – JPRAS Open
- Thyroid cartilage reduction – UW Health
Why choose Dr Stephen Kleid?
Dr Stephen Kleid is an expert ENT surgeon. Not only does Dr Kleid approach every case with utmost respect and professionalism, but he’s also a down-to-earth person who wants only what’s best for his patients. Dr Kleid likes to ask a lot of questions to learn more about the patient, their needs for the surgery, and general health, he also happily answers all your questions and concerns.
Dr Stephen Kleid – Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon
MED0001052799
OTOLARYNGOLOGIST
MBBS – Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Medicine
FRACS – Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
Dr Stephen Kleid is an experienced Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon (Otolaryngologist) based in Melbourne with a passion for Rhinoplasty, Septoplasty and a strong interest in Rhinoplasty Revision.
If you want to find out more about a procedure book a consultation.
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