Tracheal Shave Surgery
The Adam’s apple is one of the most noticeable gender-related differences between men and women. In men and some women, the slight bump known as the Adam’s apple is formed when the thyroid cartilage on the throat is large and projects forward.
The thyroid cartilage is not usually noticeable in women, making the Adam’s apple one of the most prominent features creating a masculine appearance.
Some men do not like the appearance of the bump in the middle of their throat, and some trans women may choose to have a tracheal shave procedure (chondrolaryngoplasty) to reduce the size of a prominent Adam’s apple.
The procedure involves shaving down the Adam’s apple to reduce its size to make the neck and throat appear smoother and less prominent. The critical point in this surgery is to avoid damaging the structural support of the vocal cords and to ensure a natural-looking result. I prefer to place the horizontal incision in the neck 2-3 cm higher than the most prominent part of the cartilage, so the scar will be less noticeable and does not adhere to the underlying cartilage and move during speech or swallowing.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia as a day only. Sore throat, bruising, swelling and difficulty swallowing can last up to 2 weeks after surgery. If performed incorrectly, too little cartilage can be removed, resulting in a suboptimal outcome. Alternately, if too much cartilage is removed or the cartilage is removed incorrectly, voice changes such as hoarseness can occur. Damage to the voice is often difficult to correct.
What are the risks associated with this procedure?
Plastic surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries inherent risks and potential complications.
Please read our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery page.
Mandatory Surgical Warning
Surgical Warning: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Please read our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery page.
GP Referral & Assessment Requirements
In accordance with the latest April 2026 AHPRA and Medical Board of Australia regulations, all patients seeking a consultation for cosmetic surgery must obtain a referral from their General Practitioner (GP). This ensures your medical history is reviewed by an independent doctor who can discuss your motivations and goals before you meet with a specialist.
A mandatory seven-day cooling-off period applies after your initial consultation before surgery can be booked. Patients are also encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding. These requirements exist to protect patients and to ensure every decision is fully informed and free of pressure.
Tracheal Shave Surgery Costs
| Procedure | Price Estimate | Conditions / Comments |
|---|
| Scalp Reduction | $7,900-$10,900 | This price includes surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee & 6 weeks follow up. Hospital fees are additional cost. |
| Adam’s apple shave | $8,900-$10,900 | This price includes surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee & 6 weeks follow up. Hospital fees are additional cost. |
Page Content Clinically Reviewed by Dr Barnouti
Dr. Barnouti (MED: 0001192783) is a Board-Certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with 25 years of experience performing advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), a member of ASAPS, and serves as a Senior Lecturer at the University of NSW.
Dr. Barnouti operates out of leading, fully accredited Sydney hospitals with a strict focus on patient safety.
Dr. Barnouti (MED: 0001192783)