Adam's apple reduction

Here is a visual and schematic representation of the Adam's apple reduction.

Adam's apple reduction, or thyrochondroplasty, visibly and durably reduces the prominence of the thyroid cartilage and makes the contour of the neck more discreet. Its limits: complete removal of the Adam's apple, perfect symmetry and a precise contour cannot be guaranteed, because the amount of cartilage removed is limited by the anterior attachment of the vocal cords. A deliberately cautious reduction may be needed to protect the voice. No non-surgical treatment can durably reduce the thyroid cartilage: the other options are to postpone the procedure or to accept the existing prominence.

Before Adam's apple reduction or thyrochondroplasty, any voice problem already present should be reported to Dr Manon Belhoste: hoarseness, a drop in vocal pitch, loss of range, a voice that tires easily, or a previous operation on the larynx or vocal cords. Any ENT infection, fever, heavy cough, difficulty breathing or recent difficulty swallowing should also be reported. Dr Manon Belhoste and the anaesthetist give fasting and medicine instructions, which must be followed without exception, and stopping smoking and nicotine is required. All treatments, supplements, allergies and medical history must be declared, and the return home is arranged in advance, with support if requested.

After Adam's apple reduction or thyrochondroplasty, swelling, bruising, neck pain and a feeling of tightness are possible in the first few days, with the head and upper body slightly raised for sleep. Difficulty swallowing and a hoarse voice are possible in the first few days, most often temporarily. Sudden movements and forced extension of the neck should be avoided during initial healing.

A voice change after the operation is common and most often temporary. Damage to the anterior commissure of the vocal cords may, more rarely, cause persistent dysphonia or a drop in vocal pitch, so the reduction is deliberately stopped at the limit of laryngeal safety.

Complete voice rest is not routinely required after isolated Adam's apple reduction or thyrochondroplasty. Dr Manon Belhoste does, however, recommend avoiding straining the voice when it is hoarse, painful or tired. A voice that becomes markedly deeper, significant dysphonia that persists or worsens, episodes of aspiration or unusual difficulty swallowing should be reported.

Adam's apple reduction, or thyrochondroplasty, removes an amount of cartilage limited by the anterior attachment of the vocal cords. Some residual prominence may therefore persist.

The price of Adam's apple reduction or thyrochondroplasty covers Dr Manon Belhoste's fees, follow-up consultations after the operation, the anaesthesia and clinic fees at Polyclinique La Phocéanne or Clinique Phénicia.