Voice feminization surgery (VFS) is a surgical procedure that can be used to raise the pitch of the voice in transgender women. The procedure involves making changes to the vocal cords, which are the bands of tissue that vibrate to produce sound.

There are a number of different VFS procedures that can be performed, but the most common are:
⦁ Cricothyroid approximation (CTA): This procedure involves bringing the cricoid and thyroid cartilages closer together, which tightens the vocal cords and raises the pitch of the voice.
⦁ Anterior commissure advancement (ACA): This procedure involves shortening the vocal cords by suturing the anterior commissure, which is the point where the vocal cords meet in the front.
⦁ Wendler glottoplasty: This procedure involves removing a small piece of tissue from the vocal cords, which makes them shorter and tighter.
⦁ Laser-assisted voice adjustment (LAVA): This procedure uses a laser to destroy small pieces of tissue from the vocal cords, which makes them shorter and tighter.
VFS is a relatively safe procedure, but it does have some risks, such as:
⦁ Dysphonia (difficulty speaking): This is the most common complication of VFS. It can be caused by damage to the vocal cords during surgery.
⦁ Edema (fluid buildup): This can cause the voice to sound hoarse or breathy.
⦁ Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury: This is a rare but serious complication that can cause permanent voice loss.

The decision to undergo VFS is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. Some transgender women may choose to have surgery, while others may not. There are a number of factors that can influence a person’s decision, including their gender identity, their physical appearance, and their lifestyle.

If you are considering VFS, it is important to talk to a qualified healthcare provider. They can help you assess your needs and options, and they can provide you with support throughout the process.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about VFS:
⦁ VFS is a permanent procedure, and there is no way to reverse it.
⦁ VFS can improve the pitch of the voice, but it cannot change the overall timbre of the voice.
⦁ VFS is not a substitute for voice therapy. Voice therapy can help you learn how to use your voice in a more feminine way.

If you are interested in learning more about VFS, there are a number of resources available to you. Your doctor or a transgender health specialist can provide you with information about the procedure. There are also a number of online resources available, such as the TransHealth website.

Male-to-female (MTF) voice change surgery, also known as feminization laryngoplasty or voice feminization surgery, is a surgical procedure that aims to modify the vocal cords and other structures of the larynx (voice box) to achieve a more feminine voice pitch and quality. It is an option for individuals who have difficulty achieving their desired voice through voice training and speech therapy alone. However, it’s important to note that voice feminization surgery is not necessary or desired by all transgender women, as many can achieve satisfactory voice outcomes through non-surgical methods.

Here are some key points to consider regarding voice change surgery for MTF individuals:
⦁ Purpose: The primary goal of voice change surgery is to modify the vocal cords and other laryngeal structures to achieve a higher pitch and a more feminine voice quality.
⦁ Surgical Techniques: There are various surgical techniques used in voice feminization surgery, and the specific procedure may depend on the individual’s vocal anatomy and desired outcomes. Common techniques include:
⦁ Thyroid Cartilage Reduction: This procedure involves reducing the size or prominence of the Adam’s apple (thyroid cartilage), which can help create a smoother neck contour and contribute to a more feminine appearance and voice.
⦁ Vocal Fold Shortening: This procedure aims to shorten the vocal folds (cords) to increase the pitch of the voice.
⦁ Vocal Fold Surgery: This procedure focuses on altering the vibratory characteristics of the vocal folds to achieve a more feminine voice quality.
⦁ Considerations and Risks: Voice feminization surgery is not without risks. Potential risks and complications can include changes in vocal quality, voice instability, loss of vocal range, and possible damage to surrounding structures. It’s important to have a comprehensive discussion with a qualified laryngologist or otolaryngologist who specializes in voice feminization surgery to understand the potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes based on your individual circumstances.
⦁ Voice Training and Therapy: Voice feminization surgery is often complemented by voice training and therapy both before and after the surgery. Voice therapy can help with techniques, pitch control, resonance, intonation, and overall vocal feminization. Surgery alone may not guarantee a complete transformation of the voice, and post-operative voice therapy may still be necessary to optimize results.

It’s crucial to consult with experienced healthcare professionals, such as laryngologists or otolaryngologists specializing in transgender voice care, who can provide a thorough evaluation, discuss the available options, and guide you through the decision-making process. They can assess your unique vocal characteristics, discuss potential surgical and non-surgical approaches, and help you make an informed choice that aligns with your voice goals and overall transition journey.