A plastic surgery procedure to reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple.

MTF Gender Confirmation

Erin Storm, PA-C

Definitive guide on Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave), including the procedure overview, benefits, risks, recovery, before & after photos, costs, and more. 

Gender Confirmation Surgeries

Chest Surgery for Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Individuals

Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave) 

An Adam’s apple reduction is a permanent surgical procedure that can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000. The actual cost of the procedure is dependent upon location, surgeon, and length and involvement of the surgery.

An Adam’s Apple Reduction Surgery aka a tracheal shave surgery or chondrolaryngoplasty reduces the protuberance and size of the Adam’s apple. This procedure is one of the most common facial feminization surgeries (FFS) for male to female (MTF) transgender individuals. 

There are two approaches: direct and indirect. Many plastic surgeons state the indirect approach has a less noticeable scar as the incision is hidden under the chin, whereas in the direct approach the incision is over the thyroid cartilage and creates more scar tissue. The most appropriate technique for an individual patient can be determined through consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Adam’s Apple Reduction

MTF Gender Confirmation Solutions

Neck

Head

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- Prophylactic antibiotics or antivirals may be prescribed 
- Stop taking blood thinning medications two weeks prior to surgery. Blood thinners may include, Advil, Tylenol, Aspirin, and prescription anticoagulants 
- Stop smoking four weeks prior to the procedure and continue cessation for four weeks post op
- No alcohol two days prior to the procedure
- Do not eat or drink six hours before

Before Surgery

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- General anesthesia
- Direct Approach: small incision over the thyroid cartilage on the front of the neck
- Indirect Approach: horizontal incision under the chin
- Thyroid cartilage is shaved down
- Sutures to close

During Surgery

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Immediately After Surgery

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- Resume most activities after a few days
- Swelling typically resolves within 2 weeks
- Avoid strenuous activity for 1 to 2 weeks
- Progress from soft to regular diet as tolerated
- Limit excessive facial movement

1 - 14 Days After Treatment & Beyond

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- Results are immediate and permanent
- Proper aftercare will create less scarring
- The noticeability of scarring will vary by the approach

Result Notes

An Adam’s Apple Reduction decreases the prominence of the Adam’s Apple. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after an Adam’s Apple Reduction.

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Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave)

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Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave)

Concerns Treated

MTF Gender Confirmation

Concerns Treated

MTF Gender Confirmation

The Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave) alternative

Enhance & Prolong your Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave) results

Related Procedures

Learn More About Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave) in The AEDITION

Gender Transitioning And Skincare: Taking Care Of Your Changing Face

A Guide To Non-Surgical Facial Feminization

Finding The Right Plastic Surgeon, Dermatologist, Or Cosmetic Dentist

AI Plastic Surgeon™

Scan. Simulate. Share.

Text to download The AI Plastic Surgeon by AEDIT

Learn More About
Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave) in The AEDITION