Scarless Tracheal Shave Los Angeles | Adam's Apple Reduction

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Where Compassion Meets Innovation

Scarless Tracheal Shave at Gender Affirming Care Center

To address the Adam's Apple a tracheal shave surgery, or thyroid cartilage reduction, is a vital procedure for many transgender women, non-binary individuals, and individuals within the gender-diverse community seeking to align their physical appearance with their true gender identity. Additionally, some cisgender individuals may require this procedure to address non-gender affirming aspects about a prominent Adam's Apple, enhancing confidence and improving overall health. Here at the Gender Affirming Care Center in Los Angeles we offer a range of gender-affirming surgeries, including the innovative Scarless Tracheal Shave procedure. The center provides a safe and supportive environment for all patients. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Abie Mendelsohn, a board-certified surgeon dedicated to providing gender-affirming care, patients receive comprehensive care in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Breaking Barriers

What is a Scarless Tracheal Shave?

A Scarless Tracheal Shave, also known as Adam's apple reduction or thyroid cartilage reduction, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple. Unlike traditional tracheal shave surgeries that require an external incision, this technique is performed transorally, meaning no visible scars are left behind. Using advanced surgical tools and techniques, Dr. Mendelsohn carefully removes excess cartilage to create a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing neck contour. Specialized training in craniofacial surgery is important for performing this procedure. This procedure is often part of a larger facial feminization surgery plan but can also be performed on its own.

What is the difference between

A Scarless Tracheal Shave and ENDOSCOPIC tracheal shave?

Not all Scarless Tracheal Shave surgeries are the same!! More and more surgical offices around the country and around the world are “offering” Scarless Tracheal Shave, also approaching the thyroid cartilage through the mouth (transoral or transvestibular). However, there is a major distinction with those techniques which rely on direct viewing of the thyroid cartilage which massively limits a surgeon's visibility and precision. In contrast, when the surgery is combined with a surgical high definition video camera (endoscopic guidance) allows Dr. Mendelsohn to achieve greater surgical efficiency by providing up close and detailed view of the cartilage and its surrounding anatomy. Performing surgery without an endoscope is like trying to fix the gears of a watch by peering through the keyhole—it’s hard to see what you’re doing. Using an endoscope is like having a magnifying glass inside the watch, letting you see every tiny component clearly.

Dr. Mendelsohn’s revolutionary endoscopic method for Scarless Tracheal Shave provides the basis for a maximally safe surgery while minimizing the harmful risks of over-reduction. This advanced technique also provides enhanced visualization, ensuring the vocal cords are carefully protected, which is essential for maintaining voice quality and safety. With endoscopic guidance, patients benefit from a more precise and tailored outcome, offering both aesthetic and functional advantages. Discerning patients will ask if their surgeon will be utilizing an endoscope during a Scarless Tracheal Shave surgery.

A Better Way Forward

Scarless Tracheal Shave vs Traditional Thyroid Cartilage Reduction

Scarless Tracheal Shave offers several advantages over traditional methods. This advanced neck surgery technique focuses on minimizing visible scars during procedures, particularly for gender-affirming surgeries:

Feature	Scarless Tracheal Shave	Traditional Tracheal Shave
Incision	No visible scar; performed transorally	External incision, typically along the upper neck or under the chin
Recovery	Faster recovery with immediate results	Slightly longer recovery period until results are gained
Aesthetics	No visible scarring	Possible visible scar
Comfort	Minimally invasive approach	May involve more discomfort

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Confidence Without Compromise

Scarless Tracheal Shave Benefits

Scarless Tracheal Shave offers a range of benefits, improving both physical appearance and emotional well-being:

Aesthetic Advantages:

Smooth, gender affirming neck contour
Creates the maximal adjustment of the neck contour
No visible scarring

Emotional Benefits:

Improvement of gender dysphoria
Improved quality of life
Enhanced confidence and social engagement

Physical Benefits:

Minimal impact on vocal cords
Improved healing time

By opting for the Scarless Tracheal Shave Los Angeles patients can achieve their desired outcome with fewer visible reminders of surgery.

A Minimally-Invasive Alternative

What is Tracheal Shave Surgery?

Traditionally, tracheal shave surgery involves making a horizontal incision across the front of the neck, which can leave a visible scar, undermining the gender-affirming purpose of the procedure.

However, at the Los Angeles Center for Ear Nose Throat and Allergy our physician team performs the procedure transorally, a minimally invasive endoscopic method that leaves no visible scar, which is a significant advantage for patients seeking a more discreet outcome. The procedure is similar to traditional tracheal shave surgery, but instead of making an external incision on the neck, the surgeon makes a small incision inside the mouth, near the lower gum line. This approach allows the surgeon to access the thyroid cartilage without creating a visible scar on the neck. Once the desired tracheal reduction is achieved, the incision inside the mouth is closed with dissolvable sutures, and the patient is free to go home the same day

Finding Your Fit

Scarless Tracheal Shave Candidates

This procedure is a gender-affirming surgery which has been successfully performed for hundreds of adult transgender women, non-binary individuals, people within the gender-diverse community, as well as selected cis-gender individuals resulting in a wholly gender affirming neck contour. Candidates typically:

Are in good general physical and mental health
Experience a prominence of their thyroid cartilage which is not inline with their true gender.
Are adults (above 18 years of age)

Contraindications may include:

Certain health conditions affecting healing
Significant adverse reactions to general anesthesia
Alterations of average neck and laryngeal anatomy that could complicate the procedure

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Setting the Stage for Success

How do I prepare for Scarless Tracheal Shave surgery?

When you either come in, or log on, for your consultation with the Gender Affirming Care Center, Dr. Mendelsohn will take the time to get to know you. We'll review your medical history and talk with you about what needs are present and create a personalized treatment plan to achieve the best overall health results.

To help things go smoothly, here's what you can do to prepare for your surgery:

Say no to smoking and alcohol: It's best to cut these out at least two weeks before your surgery.
Follow the doctor's orders: Dr. Mendelsohn will give you specific instructions to follow before your surgery, including any changes to your medications.

Plan for your ride home and some help afterward: You won't be able to drive yourself home after surgery, so make sure you have someone lined up to help you out.

From Start to Finish

How is the Endoscopic Scarless Tracheal Shave procedure surgery performed?

The Endoscopic Scarless Tracheal Shave that Dr. Mendelsohn performs is completed under general anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort. The process typically involves:

A small (about an inch long) incision is made inside the mouth, along the bottom most part of the lower lip.
Utilizing the high definition camera (endoscope), we can access the thyroid cartilage without external cuts.
Carefully removing the extra cartilage which forms the Adam’s Apple to the maximal allowable level achieves the optimal gender affirming contour.
Suturing the internal incision with absorbable stitches for a seamless result.

The entire procedure lasts approximately two hours, and patients return home the same day.

Healing Beautifully

Results, Recovery, and Aftercare

Results

Los Angeles Scarless Tracheal Shave patients can experience an immediate improvement in the contour of their necks, while some swelling under the chin will require a few weeks to subside completely.

Recovery

Downtime: Most patients can return to normal day-to-day activities within 7 days.
Restrictions: Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for two weeks.

Aftercare

Maintain typical good oral hygiene to prevent infection.
Take post-surgical prescription medications as directed.
Follow all post-operative instructions from Dr. Mendelsohn.
In person or video visit post-op check ensures a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Why choose a Scarless Tracheal Shave with Dr. Abie Mendelsohn?

Dr. Abie Mendelsohn is a fellowship-trained, board-certified surgeon specializing in gender-affirming procedures. Recognized for his compassionate approach and surgical precision, Dr. Mendelsohn has earned accolades for delivering aesthetically pleasing results while prioritizing patient safety. At the Gender Affirming Care Center, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment designed to meet your unique needs.

Top 10 reasons why patients choose a Scarless Tracheal Shave with Dr. Abie Mendelsohn

Unparalleled Precision: Dr. Mendelsohn’s use of endoscopic guidance ensures maximum cartilage reduction while safeguarding the vocal cords, achieving highly accurate and tailored results.
Scarless Technique: Dr. Mendelsohn’s transoral approach eliminates the need for external incisions, leaving no visible scars and enhancing patient satisfaction with the aesthetic outcome.
Voice Protection Expertise: As a specialist in voice disorders, or laryngologist, Dr. Mendelsohn has extensive experience and knowledge of vocal cord anatomy, prioritizing the protection of vocal cord function while optimizing the necessary aesthetic goals.
Minimized Risk of Complications: Dr. Mendelsohn’s meticulous technique reduces the likelihood of complications such as over-reduction, asymmetry, or damage to surrounding structures.
Peer-Reviewed Experience: Publishing the largest experience in the peer reviewed published medical journals demonstrates Dr. Mendelsohn’s academic approach to reliability and commitment to transparent reporting of surgical results.
Focus on Natural Results: Dr. Mendelsohn’s surgical approach ensures a smooth and natural contour of the neck, avoiding an overly reduced or "surgical" appearance.
Comprehensive Patient-Centered Care: By tailoring each procedure to the individual’s anatomy, aesthetic goals, and vocal needs, Dr. Mendelsohn delivers highly personalized outcomes.
Proven Track Record: With years of experience and literally hundreds of successful procedures, Dr. Mendelsohn has established himself as the leading expert in gender-affirming tracheal shave surgeries.
State-of-the-Art Technology: Dr. Mendelsohn’s use of the latest endoscopic equipment reflects a commitment to innovation and staying at the forefront of surgical advancements.
Dedication to the Gender-Diverse Community: Dr. Mendelsohn’s ongoing advocacy and compassionate approach has established him as a true ally championing the needs of transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse patients earning him the trust and recognition within these typically marginalized communities.

Enhancing the Experience with Scarless Tracheal Shave in Los Angeles

The Scarless Tracheal Shave procedure is not only about achieving physical changes—it’s about transforming how patients feel about themselves. The Gender Affirming Care Center provides each patient a welcoming and supportive environment. We have seen patients consistently report significant improvements in self-esteem and a reduction in gender dysphoria, allowing them to engage in all aspects of life with greater confidence. The Center prioritizes safety and patient satisfaction, offering a procedure that blends surgical expertise with compassionate care.

Dr. Mendelsohn’s approach ensures minimal disruption to surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of vocal cord complications. This careful attention to detail is part of what makes the procedure so effective. Whether you’re undergoing this surgery as part of a comprehensive gender-affirming care plan or as a standalone procedure, you’ll find yourself in capable and understanding hands at our center.

Schedule Your Los Angeles Scarless Tracheal Shave Consultation at Gender Affirming Care Center Today

Take the next step toward achieving your goals with a consultation at the Gender Affirming Care Center in Los Angeles. Contact us at (Insert Phone Number) or fill out our confidential online form to coordinate your appointment. We’re here to support you on your journey to greater confidence and comfort.

LA Tracheal Shave Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Scarless Tracheal Shave painful?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so patients experience no discomfort during the Scarless Tracheal Shave. Early post-operative pain is typically manageable with a combination of prescription and over-the-counter medication.

Is a Scarless Tracheal Shave permanent?

The Scarless Tracheal Shave results are permanent, as the excess cartilage does not grow back.

How much does Scarless Tracheal Shave cost?

Our primary goal is to ensure insurance authorization for this necessary health care surgery whenever possible. While costs vary with individual needs and insurance coverage, our priority is to minimize financial strain. Please contact our office for detailed financial information.

How soon can I return to work after a scarless tracheal shave?

Most Los Angeles Scarless Tracheal Shave patients can return to work within 7 days, depending on the nature of their job and how their body heals.

Will a scarless tracheal shave affect my voice?

Dr. Mendelsohn takes great care to avoid the vocal cords, minimizing any impact on your voice. While all tracheal shave surgeries carry risk to the vocal cords, the endoscopic approach has consistently minimized these risks.

What are the risks or complications of a scarless tracheal shave?

While rare, risks may include infection, nerve damage, voice changes or incomplete reduction of cartilage. Dr. Mendelsohn’s substantial experience expertise helps mitigate these risks.

How much does endoscopic scarless tracheal shave surgery cost if my insurance doesn’t cover gender-affirming care or if I don’t have medical insurance?

We understand that access to gender affirming care is critically important and in scenarios that insurance does not cover gender-affirming benefits or you do not have medical insurance, the total cost for this surgery is $15,000. Our office routinely provides superbills and any necessary documentation to support efforts to gain reimbursement from your insurance following the surgery when applicable.

Scarless Tracheal Shave in Los Angeles