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Tracheal Shave in Bellevue — Discreet Adam's Apple Reduction by a Craniofacial Expert

Tracheal shave — also called chondrolaryngoplasty or Adam’s apple reduction — is a surgical procedure that softens the visible prominence of the thyroid cartilage in the neck. At Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery in Bellevue, Dr. Kristopher Day brings his rare craniofacial fellowship training to every procedure, delivering precise, natural-looking results through a discreet incision that leaves minimal visible scarring. Washington insurance plans, including Apple Health, may cover this procedure when medically indicated.

Double Board-Certified (ABPS + ABS)

Ivy League Trained

Highly Rated Bellevue Plastic Surgeon

Proudly Serving Bellevue, Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, Mercer Island, Issaquah, Renton

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(425) 818-8991

What Is a Tracheal Shave (Chondrolaryngoplasty)?

The Adam’s apple is formed by the thyroid cartilage — the largest cartilage of the larynx. In many people assigned male at birth, testosterone during puberty causes this cartilage to grow more prominently, creating the visible ‘bump’ in the front of the neck that is widely recognized as a masculine anatomical feature.
A tracheal shave, also known by its medical name chondrolaryngoplasty, reduces this prominence surgically. Through a small incision placed in a natural neck crease — typically less than 2 centimeters — Dr. Day carefully removes excess cartilage to create a smoother, softer neck contour. No incision is made on the prominent part of the neck itself; the placement is designed for maximum concealment.
Non-surgical approaches — including exercise, skincare regimens, and other treatments — are not able to meaningfully reduce the thyroid cartilage. For patients seeking a visible, lasting reduction, surgery remains the definitive option.

About the Procedure

Medical Name

Chondrolaryngoplasty (KON-dro-LAIR-in-go-PLAS-tee) — from the Greek for cartilage, larynx, and reshaping.

What It Treats

  • Prominent thyroid cartilage creating a visible neck 'bump'
  • Gender dysphoria related to neck appearance
  • Desire for a smoother, more feminine neck profile
  • Appearance of a prominent Adam's apple in cisgender women or non-binary individuals

Dr. Day's Surgical Approach

Dr. Day uses a technique that prioritizes both cartilage reduction and voice preservation. He carefully assesses the relationship between the thyroid cartilage and the overlying vocal cords before removing any tissue — an important consideration that sets craniofacial-trained surgeons apart. The incision is placed in a horizontal skin crease for maximum concealment, and the resulting scar is typically invisible within months of recovery.

Lay Names

Tracheal shave, Adam’s apple reduction, Adam’s apple surgery, throat feminization.

"I went to Dr. Day's office for facial feminization surgery, and I don't think I could be happier with the results! During our initial consult, he took the time to understand my wants, but also helped me understand some of the anatomical differences between 'male' and 'female' faces and some of the surgical options we had for addressing my face. I would highly recommend Dr. Day, especially to any of my trans sisters who may be having a hard time finding someone covered by insurance in a reasonable timeframe."

— Michelle D., Facial Feminization Surgery Patient • Google Review

Benefits of a Tracheal Shave

What Tracheal Shave Can Do for You?

For many patients, a prominent Adam’s apple is one of the most visible and dysphoria-inducing features they face daily. It can be difficult to conceal with clothing, and it often draws attention regardless of other aspects of appearance.

A tracheal shave addresses this directly, and the impact is frequently described by patients as transformative beyond its physical scale.

Quality of Life Benefits

  • Reduced gender dysphoria related to neck and throat appearance
  • Increased confidence in clothing choices — V-necks, open collars, swimwear
  • Enhanced alignment between internal gender identity and external appearance
  • Often performed as a standalone procedure — no need for larger surgical combination
  • Can be combined with other FFS procedures for a single recovery period
  • Washington insurance may cover costs when medically indicated for gender dysphoria

Physical Benefits

  • Permanent reduction of thyroid cartilage prominence
  • Smoother, softer neck profile visible even in open necklines
  • Minimal and concealed incision — placed in natural neck crease
  • Outpatient procedure — typically completed in under 90 minutes
  • Manageable recovery — most patients return to desk work within the first week and full activity by weeks 4–6
  • No change to voice when performed by an experienced, anatomy-aware surgeon

"The day of the surgery, the entire team was professional, warm, and highly organized. My post-operative care was exceptional — they checked in frequently and provided clear, easy-to-follow instructions that made my recovery smooth and comfortable."

— Pua G., Breast Surgery Patient · Google Review

Is Tracheal Shave Right for You?

The best candidates for tracheal shave are individuals who are bothered by the appearance of a prominent Adam’s apple and are in good general health for an outpatient surgical procedure. Dr. Day evaluates each patient individually during a private consultation, with no judgment and no assumptions about your goals.
  • Ideal Candidates
  • Bothered by a prominent Adam's apple or visible thyroid cartilage
  • Seeking a smoother, more feminine neck contour
  • In good general health with no uncontrolled medical conditions
  • Non-smoker, or willing to stop smoking for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery
  • At or near a stable weight — significant weight changes after surgery can affect results
  • Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
  • When to Wait
  • Active smoker unwilling to pause — nicotine significantly impairs healing
  • Uncontrolled thyroid or laryngeal conditions that require medical management first
  • Significant current illness or recent major surgery — allow adequate recovery time
  • Planning significant weight loss — wait until weight is stable
  • Seeking simultaneous voice surgery — procedures should be staged appropriately
  • Unrealistic expectations about the degree of change possible from a single procedure

Not Sure If You're a Candidate?

Ready to Take the First Step? Schedule Your Tracheal Shave Consultation

Schedule Your Consultation

The Process And Recovery

Your Tracheal Shave Journey — Step by Step

Step 1 — Consultation

Your consultation with Dr. Day is a private, unhurried appointment. He will review your anatomy, discuss your goals, explain the surgical approach in detail, and answer every question you have. If you are navigating insurance coverage, our patient care coordinator will assist you with pre-authorization paperwork. There is no judgment, and no pressure to make any decision before you’re ready.

Step 2 — Pre-Operative Preparation

Once you’ve decided to move forward, you’ll receive detailed pre-operative instructions covering all medications, supplements, and lifestyle factors to address before surgery — including nicotine cessation (at least four weeks prior), fasting instructions, and guidance on any prescriptions that may need to be paused. Medications are adjusted for a range of reasons including bleeding, healing, anesthesia safety, and DVT prevention. If you take GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide or tirzepatide, confirm the appropriate pause protocol with Dr. Day before stopping.

Step 3 — Day of Surgery

Tracheal shave is performed as an outpatient procedure at one of Dr. Day’s accredited surgical facilities in the Bellevue area. You will receive anesthesia (typically general or deep sedation), and the procedure itself typically takes 45 to 90 minutes. A small incision is made in a horizontal neck crease, excess thyroid cartilage is carefully removed, and the incision is closed with fine sutures. You will recover briefly in the facility before going home — a responsible adult must drive you and remain with you the first night.

Step 4 — Recovery Timeline

  • Day 1: Low-grade activity is encouraged — short walks are appropriate. Keep head slightly elevated. Soft foods are recommended. Avoid any activity that causes grimacing, straining, or sweating. Mild soreness and swelling in the neck area is expected and well-managed with prescribed medication.
  • Week 1: Continue frequent, gentle movement between periods of rest. Swelling begins to improve. Most patients return to desk work or remote work during this period. Sutures are typically removed or dissolve by the end of this week. Continue to avoid any exertion that causes grimacing, straining, or sweating.
  • Weeks 2–4: Significant improvement in comfort. Begin gradual return to exercise — start at approximately 50% of your pre-operative baseline and increase by roughly 5% each day. Avoid heavy lifting or activities that strain the neck until cleared by Dr. Day.
  • Weeks 4–6: Full activity cleared. Most patients feel completely normal. Scar continues to heal and fade — maturation continues over 6–12 months.
  • Ongoing: Continue scar care as directed. Final scar maturation is already underway — most patients see continued fading through the 6–12 month mark.

Step 5 — Follow-Up Care

Dr. Day personally follows up with his patients after surgery. You’ll have a follow-up appointment within the first week, and additional check-ins as needed. Dr. Day’s office is available for questions at any stage of recovery — your access to the care team does not end when you leave the surgical facility.

"When I found Dr Day, I had visited three other doctors who each had their own ideas on what they would do to help me look more feminine. Dr Day took the time to answer all of my questions and he was the only doctor who agreed to give me what I was asking for; not more, not less. The day of Surgery Dr Day was absolutely fantastic. His team was harmonious and professional. They were like a fine tuned orchestra. He treated me with utmost respect and skill. I am two months post op and feel better physically and emotionally than I have in way too long."

— Anonymous,
Facial Feminization Surgery Patient · Google Review

Does Insurance Cover Tracheal Shave in Washington?

One of the most common questions patients ask before scheduling a consultation is whether their insurance will cover tracheal shave surgery. The answer, for many Washington patients, is yes — or at least possibly.

Washington State Coverage

Washington has some of the most progressive gender-affirming care coverage provisions in the country. Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) covers gender-affirming surgical procedures, including tracheal shave, when medical necessity is documented for the treatment of gender dysphoria. Many private insurers operating in Washington — including Premera, Regence, Aetna, and Cigna — also offer coverage under their gender-affirming care provisions.

What Affects Coverage?

  • Documentation of gender dysphoria by a licensed mental health professional
  • A letter of medical necessity from a qualified provider
  • Prior authorization from your insurer before the procedure
  • Your specific plan type and benefit structure
  • Whether Dr. Day is in-network for your plan

How Pacific Sound Helps

Navigating insurance for gender-affirming care can be complex. Our patient care coordinator has direct experience with pre-authorization processes for gender-affirming procedures and works closely with patients to submit the documentation insurers require. We assist with insurance navigation as part of your care — you do not face this process alone. If your insurance does not cover this procedure, or if you are self-paying, financing options through CareCredit (6-month financing) and Alphaeon Credit are available for qualified applicants.

What Results Can You Expect?

When You'll See Results

Initial swelling in the neck area resolves significantly within the first two weeks. Most patients see their result taking shape by weeks three to four. The final result — including full scar maturation — emerges over 6 to 12 months. Many patients describe the change as immediately noticeable even during early recovery, as the prominent cartilage is no longer visible through the skin.

How Long Results Last

Tracheal shave removes cartilage for long-lasting results. The thyroid cartilage does not regenerate. Your result is designed to be long-lasting — the neck contour you achieve through this procedure will remain your baseline.  Over time, natural aging of the skin and soft tissue continues, but the underlying cartilage reduction is irreversible.

Scar Appearance

The incision for tracheal shave is placed in a horizontal neck crease specifically chosen for concealment. For most patients, the scar becomes difficult to detect within 3 to 6 months as it matures and lightens. Dr. Day’s use of fine suture technique and precise wound closure is designed to minimize scar visibility from the outset.

Tracheal Shave Cost at Pacific Sound

The cost of tracheal shave surgery varies depending on whether your procedure is covered by insurance, the specific surgical plan developed for your anatomy, and any additional procedures performed at the same time. Dr. Day and our patient care coordinator will discuss all cost details privately during your consultation.

💰Factors That Affect Cost

  • Insurance coverage and your individual benefit structure
  • Standalone procedure vs. performed as part of a larger FFS combination
  • Anesthesia type and surgical facility fees
  • Any pre-operative imaging or testing required by your plan
  • Post-operative care and follow-up visits

Financing Options

Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery accepts financing through two trusted healthcare lending partners:

  • CareCredit — 6-month financing available
  • Alphaeon Credit — flexible credit lines designed for healthcare procedures

Ask our patient care coordinator about financing during your consultation.

✨What's Included

  • Surgeon’s fee (Dr. Day’s personal attention, start to finish)
  • Surgical facility / operating room fee
  • Anesthesia (administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist)
  • Enhanced Recovery After Surgery medication (Exparel)
  • Cosmetic surgery insurance coverage (Cosmetasure)
  • High-end compression garment (Isavella)
  • High-end scar ointment (Biocorneum)
  • Swelling and bruising ointment (Arnica)
  • All post-operative recovery and follow-up care with Dr. Day
  • Insurance pre-authorization assistance from our patient care coordinator

Why Patients Choose Dr. Day for Tracheal Shave in Bellevue?

Tracheal shave is a procedure that requires precise anatomical knowledge of the larynx, the thyroid cartilage, and — critically — the underlying vocal cords. The margin between the cartilage that can be safely removed and the structures that must be protected is small. Dr. Day’s craniofacial fellowship training is uniquely relevant here.

The Only Craniofacial Fellowship-Trained Plastic Surgeon in Bellevue

Dr. Day’s craniofacial fellowship training — a subspecialty pursuit beyond standard plastic surgery residency — encompasses advanced facial bone and cartilage anatomy, reconstructive techniques, and the structural understanding that translates directly to safer, more precise procedures like tracheal shave. His Ivy League background in surgery further deepens this foundation. No other plastic surgeon in the Bellevue market holds this credential.

A Practice Built on Respect and Discretion

Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is a boutique practice. Every patient receives Dr. Day’s personal attention from their first consultation through their final follow-up. Dr. Day performs his own consultations, surgical procedures, and post-operative care — you are never passed off to staff for clinical decisions. For transgender and non-binary patients, this means your care is consistent, personal, and delivered with the same respect at every touchpoint.

Credentials That Matter

  • Double Board-Certified — American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) + American Board of Surgery (ABS)
  • Ivy League Trained
  • 30+ Peer-Reviewed Publications
  • Member: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), ASAPS, FACS
  • Surgical Facilities: Swedish Medical Center · Carillon Point Surgery Center · Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
  • Highly Rated Bellevue Plastic Surgeon
  • 10+ Years in Practice

"I was referred to Dr. Day for my gender-affirming top surgery... From the first consultation, Dr. Day was very clear and honest with me about what I could expect from the procedure. His explanations were extremely thorough and he answered all of my questions thoughtfully. Dr. Day went out of his way to make me feel comfortable and accepted, going as far as politely correcting nurses at the hospital on my pronouns on multiple occasions. The results are so much better than I could have expected."

— Alex T., Gender-Affirming Surgery Patient · Google Review

Conveniently Located for Eastside Families

Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is centrally located in downtown Bellevue, making Dr. Day’s fellowship-trained expertise accessible to families throughout Bellevue and the greater Eastside — without the stress of navigating Seattle traffic. Our patients enjoy a private, boutique surgical experience with on-site validated parking, just minutes from the communities they call home.

Seattle

~15 minutes

World-class plastic surgery results without the downtown Seattle parking hassle. A quick drive across SR-520 or I-90 to our private Bellevue office.

Serving Seattle residents

Kirkland

~10 minutes

Just minutes from downtown Kirkland and the Juanita waterfront via I-405 or surface streets.

Serving Kirkland residents

Redmond

~10 minutes

Convenient for the Redmond tech community via SR-520 or surface streets.

Serving Redmond residents

Mercer Island

~10 minutes

A quick drive across I-90. Our discreet, private environment is ideal for discerning Mercer Island residents.

Serving Mercer Island residents

Issaquah

~10 minutes

Convenient for Issaquah Highlands and Gilman Village area families via I-90.

Serving Issaquah residents

Renton

~5 minutes

Easy access from Renton and the Landing via I-405 North. Boutique care and personalized attention just minutes away.

Serving Renton residents
Get Directions to Our Bellevue Office

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a tracheal shave affect my voice?
This is the most important question most patients ask, and the honest answer is: not when the procedure is performed correctly. The thyroid cartilage can be reduced without touching the vocal cords, which sit below and behind the area that is surgically accessed. Dr. Day’s anatomical training — including his craniofacial fellowship — specifically prepares him for this type of precise cartilage work. Choosing a surgeon with demonstrated experience in neck and laryngeal anatomy is the single most important factor in voice safety.
Dr. Day places the incision in a horizontal neck crease — a natural fold in the skin that serves as a natural hiding place for the scar. Most patients find that the scar becomes nearly invisible within 3 to 6 months of surgery as it heals and matures. You will likely be able to wear open necklines without any visible trace of surgery. Scar healing varies by individual skin type and adherence to post-operative scar care.
Tracheal shave is an outpatient surgical procedure, meaning you go home the same day. The surgery itself typically takes between 45 and 90 minutes depending on anatomy and whether additional procedures are performed simultaneously. You’ll spend a short recovery period in the facility before being released to a responsible adult who can take you home.
It may, depending on your plan. Washington State has strong protections for gender-affirming care coverage. Apple Health (Medicaid) covers gender-affirming surgical procedures including tracheal shave when medical necessity for gender dysphoria is properly documented. Many private insurers operating in Washington also provide coverage. Our patient care coordinator assists patients with insurance pre-authorization as part of the standard care process.
Most patients return to desk work or remote work during the first week. The first few days involve mild soreness and swelling in the neck area, with discomfort well-managed by prescribed medication. Soft foods are recommended initially; avoid straining the neck. A gradual return to exercise begins at weeks 2–4, and most patients feel completely normal by weeks 4–6, with scar healing continuing over several months.
Yes, and many patients choose to do so. Combining tracheal shave with other FFS procedures — such as rhinoplasty, jaw contouring, or brow bone reduction — means a single anesthesia event, a single recovery period, and an overall result that is more cohesive. Dr. Day evaluates each patient’s anatomy and goals to recommend the optimal staging for any combination of procedures.
Patients who are active smokers (without willingness to pause), who have uncontrolled thyroid or laryngeal conditions, or who have unrealistic expectations about the degree of change possible are typically not good candidates at the time of their inquiry. Most of these situations are addressable with time and appropriate medical management — a consultation with Dr. Day will identify any factors that need to be addressed before proceeding.
The answer is individual to your anatomy. Before surgery, Dr. Day carefully assesses the size and position of your thyroid cartilage relative to the underlying laryngeal structures. This assessment guides how much reduction is safely achievable. Patients with larger cartilage structures generally have more room for reduction; those with less prominent cartilage may have a smaller margin. Dr. Day will discuss realistic expectations specific to your anatomy during consultation.
No. Tracheal shave is available to any patient who is bothered by the appearance of a prominent Adam’s apple, regardless of gender identity. This includes transgender women, non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals, and cisgender women or men who have prominent thyroid cartilage for anatomical reasons unrelated to gender. Dr. Day’s practice is inclusive, and your goals are approached without judgment.
These are two entirely separate procedures. Tracheal shave modifies the exterior appearance of the thyroid cartilage — it is a structural, cosmetic procedure that changes what others see from the outside. Voice feminization surgery (glottoplasty or cricothyroid approximation) modifies the vocal cords and is designed to raise vocal pitch. The two can be performed together, but they must be staged carefully to protect vocal cord integrity. Dr. Day will discuss appropriate sequencing if you are considering both.

Schedule Your Consultation

You deserve to feel confident in your body again. Dr. Day and the Pacific Sound team create personalized transformation plans tailored to your unique goals.
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(425) 818-8991

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