The Adam’s apple, medically known as the laryngeal prominence, is a visible bump in the neck formed by the thyroid cartilage. This anatomical feature is present in all individuals, though its prominence varies. This article explores the anatomical basis of the Adam’s apple and the possibilities for modifying its appearance.
Understanding the Adam’s Apple
The Adam’s apple is a part of the thyroid cartilage, which is the largest of nine cartilages that make up the larynx, or voice box. This cartilage provides protection for the vocal cords and the front part of the larynx. The vocal cords, located directly behind the thyroid cartilage, are folds of tissue that vibrate to produce sound, playing a role in speech and voice production.
During puberty, hormonal changes significantly influence the growth of the larynx and the thyroid cartilage. In males, increased testosterone levels lead to a more substantial growth of the larynx, causing the thyroid cartilage to become larger and more anteriorly focused. This growth results in the more prominent Adam’s apple typically observed in males and contributes to the deepening of the voice. In females, the larynx and thyroid cartilage also grow during puberty, but to a lesser extent, which is why their laryngeal prominence is usually less visible.
Surgical Options for Reduction
For individuals seeking to reduce the prominence of their Adam’s apple, surgical intervention is the primary and most effective method. This procedure is known as thyroid chondroplasty, often colloquially referred to as a “tracheal shave.” The surgery involves carefully reshaping or reducing the size of the thyroid cartilage to create a smoother contour in the neck.
People choose this surgery for various reasons, including gender affirmation, particularly for transgender women seeking a more feminine neck appearance. Cisgender individuals also seek it for cosmetic preferences. The change achieved through thyroid chondroplasty is permanent, as the removed or reshaped cartilage does not grow back. Candidacy is determined by a qualified medical professional, often a board-certified surgeon experienced in this area.
The Surgical Process and Recovery
Thyroid chondroplasty typically involves several steps. The procedure is often performed under general anesthesia, though local anesthesia with sedation can also be used. The surgeon usually makes a small incision, often placed in a natural neck crease to minimize visible scarring. Through this incision, the surgeon carefully shaves down the protruding thyroid cartilage, avoiding damage to nearby vocal cords. Once the desired contour is achieved, the incision is closed with sutures.
Recovery after a tracheal shave varies, taking about two to four weeks for completion. Patients may experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the throat area for the first few days. Temporary side effects can include a sore throat, hoarseness, or slight voice changes, which resolve as healing progresses.
Post-operative care involves resting the voice, consuming soft foods, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing. Choosing a board-certified surgeon with experience in this procedure is important for good outcomes and safety.
Addressing Non-Surgical Approaches
No effective non-surgical methods can physically reduce the size or prominence of an existing Adam’s apple. Since it is a cartilaginous structure, exercises, diets, or topical treatments cannot alter its size. These approaches may offer temporary cosmetic illusions, such as makeup contouring or neck exercises that tone surrounding muscles, but they do not change the underlying cartilage.
Hormonal therapy, particularly estrogen therapy for transgender women, does not reduce an already developed Adam’s apple. While testosterone therapy can increase Adam’s apple prominence in individuals assigned female at birth, starting hormone therapy early in puberty might prevent significant growth or slightly alter its appearance. However, once the cartilage has fully developed, surgery is the only way to achieve reduction.