Voice Change Surgery in Mumbai
(Feminisation Laryngoplasty)
What is Voice Change Surgery?
Voice change surgery, also known as feminisation laryngoplasty, is a gender-affirming surgical procedure that raises the pitch of the voice to make it sound more traditionally feminine. It involves modifying the vocal cords or laryngeal structure to achieve a higher pitch and a lighter, more resonant voice.
Why Choose Voice Change Surgery?
- Raises vocal pitch, reducing deep or masculine tones.
- Improves vocal resonance to create a more feminine-sounding voice.
- Enhances confidence and social interactions by aligning the voice with gender identity.
- Offers permanent changes for those who struggle with voice training alone.
Am I Ready for Voice Change Surgery?
- Good overall health with no significant medical conditions affecting the throat or vocal cords.
- No active smoking or alcohol dependency, as these affect healing.
- Attempted voice therapy before considering surgery, as non-surgical methods are usually recommended first.
- Realistic expectations about how the voice will change.
- Prepared for post-surgical voice training, as pitch alone does not determine a feminine voice.
- Understanding the risks and recovery process involved.
What Happens During Voice Change Surgery?
- Evaluation by a laryngologist or ENT surgeon.
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and voice pitch range.
- Pre-operative voice therapy may be recommended.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring no discomfort during surgery.
Several surgical methods exist, and the best choice depends on individual vocal anatomy and goals:
A. Glottoplasty (Vocal Cord Shortening and Tightening)
- A common technique for raising vocal pitch.
- The front portion of the vocal cords is shortened and stitched together, reducing their vibrating length and increasing pitch.
B. Cricothyroid Approximation (CTA)
- The cricoid and thyroid cartilages are brought closer together, increasing tension in the vocal cords and raising pitch.
- Does not alter vocal cord structure, but its effects may be less predictable.
C. Laser Reduction Glottoplasty (LRG)
- A newer technique using a laser to modify vocal cord tension and shape for a higher pitch.
- Minimally invasive but not suitable for all patients.
- Surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the technique used.
Recovery: Understanding the Healing Process
- Complete voice rest (no talking, whispering, coughing, or clearing the throat).
- Swelling and mild throat discomfort are common.
- Soft or liquid diet may be required to avoid throat strain.
- Gradual reintroduction of speaking, often under the guidance of a speech therapist.
- Some temporary hoarseness or breathiness as the voice adjusts.
- Final voice pitch stabilises over time.
- Voice therapy may be necessary to refine tone, resonance, and inflection.
- Most patients experience a significant but not extreme increase in pitch.
Benefits of Voice Change Surgery
- Creates a more traditionally feminine vocal pitch.
- Permanent structural changes to the vocal cords.
- Can improve gender dysphoria and overall confidence.
- A surgical option when voice therapy alone is insufficient.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will my voice immediately sound feminine after surgery?
No, the healing process takes months, and voice therapy is usually needed for best results.
How much will my voice pitch increase?
On average, pitch increases by 50–80 Hz (e.g., from 100 Hz to 160-180 Hz). The exact change varies per person.
Can I still sing after surgery?
Some loss of lower vocal range is expected, but singing ability depends on healing and post-surgical training.
Is voice change surgery permanent?
Yes, glottoplasty and CTA permanently alter vocal structures, but therapy is needed to optimise the new voice.
Are there risks with voice feminisation surgery?
Possible risks include hoarseness, breathiness, scarring, loss of vocal power, and reduced vocal range, though these usually improve over time.