Tracheal Shave - Adam’s Apple Reduction Surgery
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The South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, located in Fort Lauderdale, has served over 10,000 clients. Known for delivering the highest level of service, quality, and the latest techniques in cosmetic care.
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Tracheal Shave Overview
Refine your profile & affirm your identity with a tracheal shave
For many transgender women and nonbinary individuals, the appearance of the Adam’s apple can be a source of gender dysphoria or discomfort—especially when it feels at odds with their overall facial features. A tracheal shave, also known as Adam’s apple reduction or chondrolaryngoplasty, is a gender-affirming facial procedure designed to reduce the prominence of the thyroid cartilage and create a smoother, more traditionally feminine neck contour.
This procedure is subtle but deeply powerful—it doesn’t change who you are, but it helps bring your appearance into alignment with how you feel on the inside. Whether you’re pursuing facial feminization surgery (FFS) as part of a larger transition or simply want to feel more at home in your skin, a tracheal shave can be an empowering step in your journey.
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we understand that gender-affirming care is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about self-acceptance, safety, and confidence. Our experienced team will personalize your treatment to meet your goals, anatomy, and comfort level, ensuring a result that feels affirming and authentically you.
Your face, your identity — personalized tracheal shave surgery
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we believe your appearance should reflect who you truly are. No two patients are the same—and no facial procedure should be either. A tracheal shave is a personalized, gender-affirming surgery designed to help you feel more confident and aligned with your identity by reducing the visibility of the Adam’s apple.
Whether you’re undergoing a full facial feminization journey or simply looking to soften the profile of your neck, our skilled plastic surgeons will tailor your procedure to your unique anatomy and desired outcome. The surgery involves carefully contouring the cartilage of the larynx to reduce its projection—achieving a smoother, more feminine neckline while preserving your voice and airway safety.
For many transgender women and nonbinary patients, this procedure is more than cosmetic—it’s a transformative step toward self-affirmation, comfort, and confidence in how they present to the world.
The cost of a tracheal shave at the South Florida Center starts at $2,499 (not including anesthesia and surgeon fees). Final pricing may vary depending on your specific anatomy and any other procedures performed at the same time.
To help make gender-affirming care more accessible, we offer flexible financing options through trusted third-party providers with a simple approval process. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way.
How tracheal shave surgery is performed
A tracheal shave—also known as a chondrolaryngoplasty—is a surgical procedure that reduces the prominence of the thyroid cartilage, commonly known as the Adam’s apple. This subtle but powerful change can create a smoother, more feminine neck contour and play a key role in gender-affirming care.
Advanced techniques are used to preserve the structure of the larynx while avoiding damage to the vocal cords, which sit just behind the thyroid cartilage. Your voice and breathing function are protected throughout the procedure.
Tracheal shave surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1 to 2 hours. Patients return home the same day and are provided with personalized aftercare instructions to support smooth healing and optimal results.
The procedure typically begins with a small incision placed discreetly along a natural crease of the neck, just under the chin or near the Adam’s apple.
Through this incision, your surgeon will gently shave down the cartilage that forms the Adam’s apple.
It contours to achieve a flatter, softer profile. This careful placement also ensures minimal visible scarring once healed.
Combine procedures for enhanced results
While a tracheal shave is a powerful step toward aligning your appearance with your identity, many patients choose to pair it with other procedures to create more comprehensive results. At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, our expert team can help you explore additional options based on your personal goals and timeline. Popular combinations include:
Facial feminization surgery (FFS) elements
Procedures such as rhinoplasty, chin or jaw contouring, or cheek implants can help enhance facial proportions and bring out a softer, more balanced aesthetic.
MTF top surgery (breast augmentation)
Many patients choose to pair their tracheal shave with breast augmentation to achieve a more feminine chest contour. Our plastic surgeons are experienced in tailoring results to fit your unique anatomy & vision.
Liposuction & body contouring
Sculpting procedures like liposuction, HD lipo, or fat transfer can help accentuate curves, slim the waist, and support a more gender-affirming silhouette.
Medspa
enhancements
Complement your surgical results with non-invasive options like Botox, dermal fillers, or skin rejuvenation treatments to refine features and boost confidence during or after recovery.
By combining procedures, you may be able to reduce total downtime, consolidate healing periods, and feel more aligned—both physically and emotionally—with the version of yourself you’re ready to embrace. During your personalized consultation, our team will work with you to create a safe treatment plan that supports your transition and your goals.
Tracheal Shave Surgery Benefits
Achieve a smoother, more feminine neckline
The Adam’s apple is a defining feature of the masculine neck. By gently reducing the prominence of the thyroid cartilage, a tracheal shave creates a flatter, more contoured neck that aligns with your gender identity and aesthetic goals.
Improve confidence in daily life
For many transgender women and nonbinary patients, the Adam’s apple can be a visible source of dysphoria. After surgery, patients often report feeling more confident in photos, video calls, social interactions, and while wearing clothing that reveals the neck or chest area.
Minimal scarring, subtle results
Because the incision is placed in a natural crease of the neck, the scar is typically discreet and fades significantly over time. The results are subtle but meaningful—most people won’t notice you’ve had surgery, but you will feel the difference.
Complements other gender-affirming surgeries
Tracheal shave is often performed on its own, but it can also be combined with other gender-affirming procedures such as facial feminization surgery or voice feminization surgery for more holistic results.
Fast procedure with low downtime
This outpatient procedure takes just 1–2 hours, and most patients are able to return to light activities within a few days. The recovery is generally smooth, with minimal discomfort and long-lasting results.
Financing options as low as $200 / month
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Tracheal Shave Surgery Before & After Results
Tracheal Shave Consultation Process
01 Complete our form
Fill out our virtual consult form online, so that we can get some more information about you and what you specific needs. Be sure to include any concerns and questions that you have for our staff or surgeons. There is also an option to attach photos for the surgeon to review when evaluating your case.
02 Receive a proposal
In most cases, you’ll receive a proposal within 24 hours of submitting a request via email from your assigned patient care consultant. This will show a breakdown of pricing, what’s included, and next steps to move forward with the surgery. You’ll also be able to contact your consultant moving forward with any questions or concerns about your surgery.
03 Submit photos for review
In order to move forward with your surgery, the surgeon must evaluate your body and your specific goals. Patients can either submit photos including multiple angles (front, back, and both profiles) along with comments about their goals and concerns, or can schedule a video call at their convenience to virtually meet with the surgeon. We offer virtual consultations with Dr. Robert Cucin, Dr. John Pinnella, Dr. Brandon Elnekaveh, and Dr. Rohan Policherla. We also offer in-person consultations with a $500 deposit that goes towards the overall cost of your surgery.
04 Get approved
After your consultation, whether by submitting photos, video call, or in-person, the surgeon will create a surgical plan and approve you as a candidate for surgery. The surgeon might also suggest another procedure. Your patient care consultant will reach out to you to confirm the surgeon’s approval and answer any remaining questions you may have.
05 Leave deposit to hold price
Once you are ready to move forward, you can leave a $500 deposit using a credit card, cash, or one of our trusted financing partners. This deposit goes towards the overall cost of your surgery. Deposits are non-refundable, but remain as a center credit for a period of one year.
06 Schedule surgery
After you leave your deposit, you are ready to schedule your surgery. Our scheduling supervisor will reach out to you and choose dates for your pre-operative and surgical appointments that work for you. If you’re not ready to schedule right away, just let us know when to reach out and we will be happy to follow up at a later time.
Request a Tracheal Shave surgery consultation in Fort Lauderdale
Get a free Tracheal Shave surgery consultation. Enter your information below and one of our coordinators will reach out to begin your consultation process.
Surgery and Recovery Process
30 - 1 Day Before Surgery
You’ll complete a pre-operative consultation where your surgeon will review your anatomy, health history, and goals. Pre-op photos, bloodwork, and medical clearance (if needed) are finalized during this stage. You’ll also receive detailed instructions to prepare for the day of surgery.
Surgery Day
Tracheal shave surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1 to 2 hours. The surgeon makes a small incision in a natural crease of the neck, carefully reduces the thyroid cartilage, and closes the incision with fine sutures. Most patients go home the same day with a light dressing in place.
1 Day Post Op
Expect mild discomfort, tightness, or a sore throat. Swelling and slight bruising around the incision are normal. You’ll be advised to speak minimally and rest your voice to avoid strain on the healing tissue. You may also be prescribed medication to manage pain and inflammation.
1 Week Post Op
Stitches may be removed, or you’ll attend a follow-up to ensure healing is on track. Most patients feel more comfortable at this stage but should continue avoiding strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or excessive talking. Swelling and tenderness begin to subside.
1 Month Post Op
Your incision will continue to heal and fade. Most patients can return to normal social activities and light work. Voice use can gradually increase, but any lingering hoarseness or vocal fatigue should be monitored. Your surgeon will let you know when you’re cleared for more intense activity.
2 - 12 Months Post Op
By this point, residual swelling has resolved, and your neck will have settled into its new shape. The incision scar will continue to fade, especially with proper scar care. Patients typically enjoy long-lasting results with improved confidence in their facial profile and daily interactions.
Tracheal Shave Surgery Reviews & Ratings in Fort Lauderdale
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Thank you for all you do. The entire staff is great! My surgery went well, and the results are phenomenal!! Excited for my next procedure!
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Real patients, real results.
Our Fort Lauderdale tracheal shave plastic surgeons
M.D.
Dr. Rohan Policherla
Rohan Policherla, MD is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in aesthetic surgery.
M.D.
Dr. John Pinnella
John Pinnella, MD is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in aesthetic surgery.
The Florida Center Difference
South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery has been around for over 20 years. We are located just a few blocks from the beach in Fort Lauderdale. With multiple board-certified and expert plastic surgeons, our 8,500 sq ft office-based surgery center specializes in a variety of procedures to meet our patients’ needs. We have been recognized by Boca Magazine’s Top Doctors, Fort Lauderdale Magazine’s Top Docs, Best of Fort Lauderdale, RealSelf Verified Doctor and have over 500 5-Star reviews.
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Tracheal Shave Surgery FAQs
What is a tracheal shave?
Tracheal shave surgery, also known as Adam’s apple reduction or chondrolaryngoplasty, is a gender-affirming procedure that reduces and shaves the prominence of the thyroid cartilage. This creates a smoother and more feminine neckline and profile, ideal for any transgender women and non-binary patients.
Who is a good candidate for tracheal shave surgery?
Is a tracheal shave part of facial feminization surgery (FFS)?
Yes, a tracheal shave is often included in a more complete facial feminization surgery transformation. Patients can have the option of only undergoing tracheal shave surgery, or they can combine it with any other surgery to obtain a more complete transition based on their needs and goals.
How is a tracheal shave performed?
Tracheal shave is done under general anesthesia, takes around 1-2 hours, and your surgeon makes a small incision in the natural crease of your neck to carefully shave and reduce the size and prominence of the thyroid cartilage using precise surgical tools to not cause any type of damage to your vocal cords. The result? A smoother and more feminine neck contour with affecting functionality.
Will my voice change after a tracheal shave?
When a tracheal shave is performed by an experienced surgeon, this procedure shouldn’t affect or alter your voice. However, it is very important to limit the use of your voice, especially during the first couple of weeks, to avoid vocal fatigue. Voice changes are more commonly addressed with a voice feminization procedure.
Does a tracheal shave leave a scar?
Tracheal shave, like any other surgery, leaves a scar. However, the incision is very small, and it is placed in the natural fold of the neck to make the scar as discreet as possible. Our post-operative team will also provide you with detailed after care instruction to ensure your scars fade significantly over time.
How long is the recovery after tracheal shave surgery?
This surgery is considered a quick procedure that requires a shorter period of recovery. Most patients are cleared to resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks, and they get to experience full healing and final results within 3-6 months post-op. Your surgeon will advise you to rest your voice and avoid strenuous activities, especially during the first few weeks of recovery.
Is tracheal shave painful?
Patients often report mild soreness, tightness, and a sore throat after tracheal shave surgery rather than pain. Discomfort is generally very manageable with prescribed medication and following your post-surgical instructions. Most patients describe the recovery as tolerable and relatively quick.
Can I combine a tracheal shave with other gender-affirming surgeries?
Yes. Patients have the option to do a tracheal shave, a single procedure, or combine it with other facial feminization techniques. Common combinations include rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and non-surgical treatments such as lip filler and Botox. Your surgeon will create a custom approach to ensure your safety and enhance your aesthetic results.
What risks are associated with Adam’s apple reduction?
As with any other surgery, there are potential risks involved with a tracheal shave procedure, such as infection, bleeding, visible scarring, or changes in your voice. It is important to do your research to choose a skilled facial surgeon, experienced in trans-care, to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
How noticeable are the results of a tracheal shave?
Having realistic expectations is key when it comes to tracheal shave results; they all vary depending on the patient’s anatomy, but most report and notice a visible reduction in the prominence of the Adam’s apple. The final results are visible within 3-6 months, and it achieves a smoother and more feminine neck contour that aligns closer with their gender identity.
Do I need to stop hormone therapy before surgery?
In most cases, stopping your hormone therapy is not necessary; many patients continue their treatment before and after surgery, and it doesn’t affect their system on the day of surgery. However, it is very important to disclose this information to your surgeon in detail so they can provide specific guidance based on your health profile and the type of medications you take.
Other plastic surgery procedures you may be interested in
Our tracheal shave surgery specialist in Fort Lauderdale.
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, our Tracheal Shave procedure is performed by a team of experienced plastic surgeons, including Dr. John Pinnella who is known for his meticulous technique and commitment to delivering natural, balanced results.
Dr. Pinnella brings a refined approach to Tracheal Shave, focusing on enhancing each patient’s natural shape while restoring balanced proportions and body confidence.
Our team performs Tracheal Shave surgeries at our modern Fort Lauderdale facility, serving patients locally from Miami, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach, as well as clients who travel from across the U.S. and internationally seeking high-quality aesthetic care in South Florida.
