Pitch Procedures (Elevation or Lowering) Los Angeles

For many transgender and non-binary individuals, vocal pitch can be a source of significant gender dysphoria. When a voice doesn’t align with how someone identifies or wishes to be perceived, it can cause stress, discomfort, and make everyday communication feel like a barrier. At the Gender Affirming Care Center in Los Angeles, we offer Pitch Procedures (Elevation or Lowering) to address this need directly. These surgical voice modifications—Vocal Feminization and Vocal Masculinization—are performed by Dr. Abie Mendelsohn, a board-certified laryngologist known for his leadership in gender-affirming vocal surgery. On this page, you'll learn what pitch surgery entails, what results to expect, and how our process is designed to safely help you achieve a voice that affirms who you are. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of your options and how to move forward confidently.

Los Angeles Pitch Procedures (Elevation or Lowering) in Los Angeles, CAe model smiling

Vocal Pitch Elevation Surgery (Vocal Feminization)

Pitch elevation surgery is most commonly performed using the VFSRAC technique (Vocal Fold Shortening and Retrodisplacement of the Anterior Commissure). This method involves reshaping the vocal folds endoscopically to raise the pitch without leaving any external scars. Dr. Mendelsohn uses precision microsurgical tools through the mouth to shorten and increase the tension of the vocal cords. This safely elevates the pitch into a more feminine range, often without compromising natural voice quality.

Key benefits include:

A permanent increase in pitch
No visible scarring
A smooth, natural-sounding feminine voice
Reduced voice dysphoria and increased self-confidence

This procedure is ideal for transgender women and transfeminine individuals who have not achieved their desired pitch through voice training alone. A consultation will include laryngoscopic imaging and a full vocal analysis to ensure candidacy. Patients are expected to complete pre- and post-operative voice therapy for optimal results.

Learn more about Vocal Feminization Surgery

Vocal Pitch Lowering Surgery (Vocal Masculinization)

Vocal pitch lowering, typically performed using Type III Thyroplasty, repositions the thyroid cartilage to relax the vocal folds and reduce pitch. This open-neck surgery allows for permanent vocal deepening and is especially effective for transgender men and non-binary individuals whose voice did not adequately masculinize with hormone therapy alone. The incision is small and discreet, and real-time pitch testing can be performed during the procedure.

Key benefits include:

A lower, more resonant speaking voice
Permanent pitch drop averaging 50 Hz or more
Improved confidence in social and professional settings
Minimal recovery time and typically outpatient

Candidates include transmasculine individuals and others seeking a stable, natural-sounding lower voice. Dr. Mendelsohn will evaluate vocal anatomy, prior testosterone use, and current vocal health to determine if surgery is the right next step.

Learn more about Vocal Masculinization Surgery

Benefits of Pitch Procedures

Patients who undergo pitch modification surgery at our center often describe the experience as life-changing. Here’s what you can expect:

Gender congruence: A voice that finally matches your identity
Long-term results: Pitch elevation and lowering techniques yield permanent structural changes
Natural-sounding outcomes: Techniques are chosen to preserve voice quality
Minimally invasive options: Endoscopic approaches minimize external scarring
Comprehensive support: Surgery is paired with pre- and post-op voice therapy for safe vocal use

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Pitch procedures are most often pursued by transgender and non-binary individuals looking to reduce gender dysphoria related to their voice. Candidates may include:

Adults (18+) in good overall health
Individuals with persistent voice dysphoria despite therapy or hormone treatment
Patients committed to voice rest and post-op therapy
Those without untreated vocal fold pathologies (e.g. nodules, polyps)

During your consultation, Dr. Mendelsohn will perform a detailed vocal exam and review your history to confirm eligibility.

Los Angeles Scarless Tracheal Shave model with blonde hair

What to Expect at Your Consultation

Your consultation includes a thorough vocal assessment using scope imaging and acoustic analysis. Dr. Mendelsohn will listen to your current voice, ask about prior training or therapy, and discuss your surgical goals. You’ll receive:

A personalized care plan
Pre-op instructions (e.g., pausing NSAIDs, stopping smoking, hydration guidance)
Voice therapy referrals, if appropriate

You’ll also be advised to arrange for downtime and follow voice rest guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery.

Procedure Details

For Vocal Feminization:

Performed endoscopically through the mouth
VFSRAC technique shortens and tensions the vocal folds
Surgery lasts approximately 45–60 minutes
Outpatient procedure with no external incisions

For Vocal Masculinization:

Type III Thyroplasty via a small neck incision
Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
Cartilage repositioned to reduce vocal cord tension
Typically completed in 60–90 minutes

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery depends on the procedure performed:

Feminization (pitch elevation): 10–14 days of strict voice rest, followed by gradual reintroduction of voice use
Masculinization (pitch lowering): Voice moderation recommended for 1–2 weeks (not full rest)

All patients are advised to:

Stay hydrated
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and strenuous activity
Attend follow-up visits and voice therapy (if recommended)

Results become noticeable within weeks and continue to refine over several months. Full stabilization typically occurs by 6 months.

Los Angeles Scarless Tracheal Shave model with curly hair

Why Choose Dr. Abie Mendelsohn?

WDr. Mendelsohn is a board-certified otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained laryngologist specializing in transgender voice surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology, a member of WPATH, and part of the International Association of TransVoice Surgeons. He pioneered the TRANSform procedure and has helped hundreds of patients find a voice that reflects who they truly are. His techniques focus on both safety and artistry, ensuring that every surgical outcome is as functional as it is affirming.

Schedule Your Pitch Procedure in Los Angeles

Your voice should sound as authentic as you feel. Whether you’re seeking pitch elevation or lowering, our team is here to help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mendelsohn at the Gender Affirming Care Center to explore your options and receive a treatment plan tailored to your identity and goals.

Book Your Consultation

Pitch Procedures (Elevation or Lowering)Frequently Asked Questions

Do Pitch Procedures (Elevation or Lowering) really work?

Yes. Techniques like VFSRAC and Type III Thyroplasty are clinically proven to deliver permanent, measurable pitch changes. Most patients reach gender-congruent pitch ranges with long-lasting results.

Are Pitch Procedures safe?

When performed by a board-certified laryngologist, these procedures are very safe. Voice preservation is prioritized, and our advanced tools help minimize risk.

Is pitch surgery painful?

Most patients report mild discomfort. Feminization may cause a sore throat for a few days, while masculinization may result in minor neck soreness. Pain is typically manageable.

What’s the difference between high- and low-pitch vocal cords?

High-pitch cords are thinner and tighter; low-pitch cords are thicker and looser. Surgery adjusts these properties to shift your pitch up or down based on your identity.

Is voice therapy still needed after surgery?

Yes. Post-op therapy supports optimal voice use and helps integrate your new pitch with healthy patterns, especially after feminization.

Show The World Who You Are

Schedule a Consultation Today

Overall, tracheal shave surgery can be an effective way to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing neck contour, and with the technique used at Los Angeles Center for Ear Nose Throat and Allergy, patients can achieve their desired outcome without any visible scarring in a welcome and supportive environment. If you are a transgender individual seeking transoral tracheal shave surgery or other medical services, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors. We are committed to providing the highest quality care in a safe and supportive environment, and we look forward to helping you achieve your healthcare goals.

Pitch Procedures (Elevation or Lowering) in Los Angeles, CA in Los Angeles