Voice feminization is achieved through surgical techniques whose objective is to change from a male tone voice to a higher pitched voice, perceived as feminine.
What is phonosurgery?
Phonosurgery includes the set of microsurgical techniques that allow to modify and improve the phonatory function (voice).
By means of phonosurgery it is possible to:
- Modify or correct the shape of the voice
- Change or correct the thickness, length, position, orientation and tension of the vocal cords.
- Modify or correct the mode of vibration of the vocal folds.
The surgical intervention of laryngoplasty is one of the treatments included in phonosurgery. It allows to raise the tone of the voice to make it more harmonious and feminine. This surgical treatment is called thyroplasty type IV, or also crico-thyroid approach.
Laryngoplasty surgery is one of the treatments included in phonosurgery.
Why is it performed?
Type IV thyroplasty or cryo-thyroid approach is performed to obtain a higher, more harmonious and more feminine tone of voice.
What does it consist of?
Type IV thyroplasty is a surgical procedure that allows to lengthen the vocal cords, increasing their tone or frequency when they are low. The intervention is performed by sewing the cricoid cartilage to the lower part of the thyroid cartilage. In this way, the action of the crico-thyroid muscle is stimulated when it is at its maximum contraction.
Preparation for type IV thyroplasty surgery
In general, this type of surgery is performed under local anesthesia.
Postoperative recovery
In the postoperative phase, it is not necessary to rest the voice, but it is forbidden to make any vocal effort (e.g. coughing) for approximately four days. For more information you can contact a specialist in Otolaryngology or Speech Therapy.