Let's talk about Voice Feminization Surgery

Sometimes we feel that our voice does not match our true self. Needless to say, the discomfort and anxiety that comes to mind when we feel that our voice is hoarse or heavy. So, today we are talking about a method that can change our voice to a feminine form according to our wishes and according to our own wishes. That is the surgery called 'Voice Feminization Surgery'.

What is this voice feminization surgery?

Simply put, this is a surgery that increases the pitch of your voice. This surgery makes a permanent change to your vocal cords, so your voice becomes higher and more feminine.

These vocal cords are located in the part of our throat called the larynx. The length and thickness of these determine the pitch of our voice. Think of them as strings on a guitar. Just as a guitar string produces a higher pitch when it is loosened or tightened, this surgery permanently raises the pitch of your voice by shortening, tightening, or loosening your vocal cords. This surgery is performed by a specialist doctor, an ear, nose, and throat specialist (laryngologist).

Why would someone resort to such surgery?

This is often a very personal decision . The main reason is to reduce the stress and discomfort that comes with feeling that your voice does not match your feminine identity. Having a voice that matches your inner self provides great psychological comfort.

In addition, some medical reasons may also lead to this surgery.

• For people with certain disorders of sex differentiation.
• For those with medical conditions that require the intake of male hormones (androgens).
• Those with tumors that produce male hormones, such as ovarian cancer.

Is it possible to change your voice without surgery?

Yes, you can. There is a low-risk, reversible method that many doctors recommend before undergoing surgery. That is voice training therapy, also known as 'Voice Feminization Therapy'.

A speech-language pathologist (SLP) will help you with this. He or she will teach you various exercises and techniques to raise your voice pitch, change your speaking pattern, and tone. Many people try this treatment before undergoing surgery. Sometimes, even after surgery, this treatment can be very helpful in getting used to your new voice.

How do you prepare before surgery?

Once you decide on surgery, your doctor and speech therapist will prepare you for it.

• Vocal function exercises: You will be taught some simple exercises to do daily to strengthen your vocal cords and make them easier to move. This will also help you recover faster after surgery.
• Vocal hygiene: This is very important. Simply put, it's about keeping your voice as healthy as possible.
• You need to drink plenty of water . This will provide the necessary moisture to the vocal cords.
• If you are a smoker, you definitely need to stop .
• Alcohol and caffeinated drinks (like coffee and tea) can dry out the vocal cords, so it's best to stay away from these before surgery.

How is the surgery performed? What are the methods?

This surgery is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you are completely asleep. So you will not feel any pain. There are different methods of performing the surgery. Some methods involve inserting a thin camera (laryngoscope) through the mouth, while others involve making a small incision on the outside of the neck. The table below lists some of the most commonly used methods.

What happens after the surgery? How long does it take to recover?

After surgery, your doctor and speech therapist will monitor you closely.

It can take 6 to 12 months for your vocal cords to fully heal and your voice to stabilize. So don't worry if you don't get the results you were hoping for right away. You need to give it some time.

What are the benefits and risks of this surgery?

The biggest advantage is that you can maintain a consistently high voice without tiring. Not only when speaking, but also when coughing or clearing your throat. Your voice doesn't suddenly become heavy.

Also, like all surgeries, there are some risks.

• Weak voice, especially when speaking loudly.
• Hoarseness of the voice, a wheezing sound (Dysphonia).
• The voice is too high (having an unnatural quality).
• The voice did not change as much as expected.
• Voice tremor.
• Voice becomes hoarse again over time.
• Need for re-surgery.

The best way to minimize these risks is to have the surgery performed by an experienced specialist who regularly performs such surgeries.

When should you see a doctor immediately?

Before leaving the hospital, be clear about what side effects are common and what the signs of an emergency are. If you have any of the following symptoms, go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.

• Signs of infection: fever, chills, and pus draining from the surgical site.
• Difficulty breathing: This is a very serious emergency.
• Difficulty swallowing water or liquid food: Food can enter the airway , which can lead to a serious condition such as aspiration pneumonia.

Voice change, female voice, Voice Feminization Surgery, vocal cords, voice surgery, speech therapy, laryngologist