A prominent Adam’s apple can make the neck appear heavier, more angular, or more masculine than you would like. A tracheal shave—also known as chondrolaryngoplasty or thyroid cartilage reduction—is a specialized procedure designed to reduce the prominence of the thyroid cartilage and create a smoother, more refined neck contour.
At JH Face, Dr. Jonathan Harounian is a double board-certified Facial Plastic and ENT surgeon in Long Island and Great Neck, NY, combining advanced facial plastic surgery expertise with specialized knowledge of the larynx and neck anatomy.
The result is subtle, sophisticated, and designed around your individual anatomy.
The thyroid cartilage forms the structure commonly known as the Adam’s apple. When it is particularly prominent, it can become a defining feature of the neck and profile.
A tracheal shave selectively reduces the prominence of the thyroid cartilage to create a smoother transition from the chin to the neck.
For appropriately selected patients, the procedure can help:
Reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple
Create a smoother anterior neck contour
Refine the side profile
Improve facial and neck proportions
Create a softer, more streamlined neck appearance
Complement other facial feminization or facial rejuvenation procedures
The objective is refinement—not over-reduction.
Tracheal shave is a procedure where anatomy matters.
The thyroid cartilage sits immediately adjacent to critical structures of the larynx and airway. The vocal folds and other important laryngeal structures must be carefully respected during surgery.
Dr. Jonathan Harounian’s dual expertise in Facial Plastic Surgery and Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery provides a unique perspective for patients considering thyroid cartilage reduction.
His approach combines aesthetic precision with an intimate understanding of the underlying laryngeal anatomy.
No two necks are identical.
During your consultation, Dr. Harounian evaluates:
Thyroid cartilage prominence
Neck anatomy
Chin and jawline proportions
Skin quality
Overall facial harmony
Voice and laryngeal anatomy
Your aesthetic goals
The surgical plan is then customized to your anatomy and desired degree of contour refinement.
The goal is a natural-looking result.
A successful tracheal shave should not look “operated on.” The ideal result is a smoother, more balanced neck that integrates naturally with the rest of your face.
These procedures address different anatomical concerns.
Tracheal shave reduces the prominence of the thyroid cartilage itself.
Neck liposuction removes excess fat beneath the chin and along the upper neck.
Some patients may benefit from combining procedures when both cartilage prominence and excess submental fat contribute to the appearance of a heavy or masculine neck.
Dr. Harounian can determine whether one procedure—or a combination—is appropriate for your goals.
Tracheal shave may be appropriate for patients who are bothered by a prominent Adam’s apple and desire a smoother, less prominent neck contour.
Patients may seek the procedure for a variety of aesthetic reasons, including facial feminization, gender-affirming care, or simply personal aesthetic preference.
You do not need to fit a particular category to want a more refined neck.
Your anatomy. Your goals. Your decision.
Tracheal shave is generally performed through a small incision placed discreetly in the neck.
Following surgery, temporary swelling, bruising, tightness, or throat discomfort may occur. Recovery varies depending on the individual and whether additional procedures are performed at the same time.
Dr. Harounian provides detailed postoperative instructions and follows patients closely throughout the healing process.
The neck plays an important role in facial aesthetics.
Even a relatively small change to the prominence of the thyroid cartilage can alter the appearance of your profile and the relationship between your chin, jawline, and neck.
At JH Face, tracheal shave is approached as facial contouring—not simply cartilage removal.
Every millimeter matters.
atients from Great Neck, Nassau County, Long Island, Queens, and the greater New York area seek Dr. Jonathan Harounian for specialized facial plastic and neck procedures.
As a double board-certified Facial Plastic and ENT surgeon, Dr. Harounian offers a highly specialized approach to tracheal shave surgery, combining aesthetic judgment with advanced knowledge of laryngeal anatomy.
If you are considering Adam’s apple reduction, thyroid cartilage reduction, or facial feminization surgery, a private consultation can help determine the safest and most appropriate approach for your anatomy.
Refine the neck. Elevate the profile.
Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Jonathan Harounian at JH Face in Great Neck, Long Island, NY.
What is a tracheal shave?
A tracheal shave, medically known as chondrolaryngoplasty, is a surgical procedure that reduces the prominence of the thyroid cartilage, commonly called the Adam’s apple.
Does a tracheal shave change your voice?
The procedure is intended to contour the thyroid cartilage rather than alter the vocal folds. Because the larynx and voice-producing structures are delicate, appropriate surgical technique and careful patient selection are essential.
Is a tracheal shave the same as Adam’s apple reduction?
Yes. “Adam’s apple reduction” is the common term for the aesthetic procedure, while tracheal shave and chondrolaryngoplasty are medical terms frequently used for the procedure.
Does a tracheal shave leave a scar?
The procedure requires an incision, but the incision can generally be positioned discreetly within a natural neck crease. Scar appearance varies between patients and improves as healing progresses.
Can a tracheal shave be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Depending on your anatomy and goals, thyroid cartilage reduction may be performed alongside procedures such as neck liposuction or other facial plastic surgery.
Is tracheal shave permanent?
The cartilage reduction is intended to be permanent. Normal aging and changes in surrounding soft tissue can nevertheless alter the appearance of the neck over time.
How much does a tracheal shave cost in Long Island?
Pricing varies based on the surgical plan, facility, anesthesia, complexity of the procedure, and whether additional procedures are performed. A personalized surgical fee is provided following consultation.
