Tracheal Reduction — Another Step

For some trans women consideration of an Adam’s Apple reduction may be unnecessary. For others, such as myself, it was a necessary step. I always knew that someday it would need be addressed. That day came on September 24^th (not co-incidentally my birthday).

Keystone 2014, June’s Philadelphia TransHealth Conference, the Philadelphia Renaissance Chapter, and the Internet, exposed me to a number of surgeons and quite a few options both local and distant. No surgery is to be taken lightly, and certainly in no way would I dare compare a tracheal shave to more serious procedures like SRS.

Choosing a surgeon can be very emotional and stressful. It will always be a matter of personal choice, considering experience, comfort with the surgeon, proximity to home, and cost, for me in that very order.

My choice of Dr. Kathy Rumer in Ardmore, Pa. was a good one. Her office and medical staff were professional, warm, and caring. The clinical staff made me feel welcomed, and even had me laughing pre and post surgery.

Four weeks prior to surgery all hormones were discontinued to promote healing (an unfortunate minor downside of the process,  LOL). Arnica Montana, a natural supplement to promote healing was also prescribed pre and post op. Blood work and an EKG were required as well.

Once anesthesia was administered, I was “out” and quickly on my way to the operating room, awake an approximate 45 minutes later. The entire process,  from the time I walked in the door to being on my way home (driven by a friend), took about 2 hours.

Everything I was told by Dr. Rumer has come to pass. I was able to talk, swallow and eat immediately. There was some slight discomfort for only the first night. A small scar is still slightly visible but is slowly fading. I’m told it will take 6 months to a year to completely blend.

Selecting a doctor or surgeon is very personal. In any decision, one wonders “did I make the right choice?” and “could things have come out better?” When I woke up after the tracheal surgery I felt complete joy, happy with my decision then, and now. Slowly and steadily, the journey continues.

Tags: featured, Plastic Surgery, Transgender, Transition

Category: Product Review, Transgender Body & Soul, Transgender Opinion