Dear Jess,
Quote from: FinallyMe84 on June 17, 2014, 09:00:43 AM
I think mtf's, before even considering vfs should try on their own or with a vocal trainer or group setting to use voice therapy instead. A great resource I'm using is at http://www.tsroadmap.com/physical/voice/index.html. it is a workbook called Finding Your Female Voice, and there are even videos to go along with it free on YouTube if you search for "Finding Your Female Voice." Just a thought. I would use that surgery as a last resort, but not put all my hopes into it. I've def heard mixed reviews on it and it is much more risky than training your voice if possible. I'm sure most everyone knows this already, just thought I'd try to help.
While it is certainly true that a passable female speaking voice can be attained with the resources you cited and the ones by Melanie Phillips that predated them (which I used 20 years ago), they are not a cure-all. They do not provide a solution for the singing voice and are only of limited use for involuntary sounds such as coughs or yawns. This is why, after having lived my entire adult life thus far as a woman, I've opted for Dr. Kim's VFS at 39 years of age. Up to now I must say I'm just blown away by how much this surgery makes it easier to speak. I'm not allowed to sing yet, but I believe that this will work nicely too. At precisely 8 weeks post-surgery now I have 2 octaves and a major third of effortless range within regular female limits, with almost no noticeable break and absolutely no split. Once I'm allowed to put some power and support behind my voice, I believe the physiological material can easily be extended to 3 octaves of range.
I'll post a progress report around the 23rd (the 2 month mark).
Regards,
Amy
