Community Conversation => Transitioning => Facial feminization surgery => Topic started by: Ms Jessica on April 29, 2010, 02:47:04 AM Return to Full Version

Title: Trach Shave with Dr. O...
Post by: Ms Jessica on April 29, 2010, 02:47:04 AM
Thinking about going under the knife...  A trach shave seems to be the most important thing for me as far as passability at this point, and while Dr. O is probably the most well known surgeon to me geographically, I'm wondering what kind of experiences others have had-- I'm considering Spiegel and Zukowski too, but they're farther away so travel will cost more. 

Any suggestions, comments, etc would be much appreciated.  Thanks, ladies!
Title: Re: Trach Shave with Dr. O...
Post by: Renate on April 29, 2010, 06:45:20 AM
Not to derail this post too much, but some of the variabilities of trach shave are:

Rongeurs (hand nippers) vs. burrs (grinders)
High incision (under the chin) vs. low incision (across the Adam's apple).
Aggressive removal (possibility of temporary or permanent voice change) vs. a conservative approach.

I've not seen this discussed much.

Years ago, Renée Richards' surgeon accidentally broke through her trachea while attempting a shave.
(No, I'm not trying to scare you, this was years ago.)
Title: Re: Trach Shave with Dr. O...
Post by: Ms Jessica on April 29, 2010, 02:54:21 PM
I'll post some of the info I've gotten just in case anyone wants it:

Dr. O costs $3700 (3000 + 700 in fees to the hospital).  He's actually the cheapest I've found, so I'm going to end up booking with him-- June 18th!!! 

Dr. Spiegel in Boston is $4900 (3000 + 1300 in hospital fees including an overnight stay and 600 for anesthesia). 

Dr. McGinn also does trach shaves, her base price right now is $4300.  I don't know what that includes. 
Title: Re: Trach Shave with Dr. O...
Post by: blackMamba on May 01, 2010, 04:29:39 PM
Dr. O did mine and did a very good job.  He makes the incision underneath the chin and it requires a couple stitches.  As for what particular technique he used, I have no idea.