TRANSform Surgery Los Angeles, CA | Gender Affirming Care Center

Los Angeles TRANSform procedure model with curly

A Combined Approach to Voice and Neckline Alignment

TRANSform Surgery with Dr. Abie Mendelsohn

Dr. Abie Mendelsohn, a board-certified plastic surgeon at the Gender Affirming Care Center in Los Angeles, offers the TRANSform procedure. This combination of surgical approaches addresses two important aspects of gender affirmation: voice and neck contour. This procedure integrates a scarless tracheal shave with vocal feminization surgery, allowing patients to undergo both treatments in one operating session. By reducing the need for multiple surgeries and anesthesia events, Dr. Mendelsohn provides efficiency, safety, and consistent outcomes.

Two Surgeries, One Seamless Experience

What is TRANSform Surgery?

The TRANSform procedure is designed for people who want to address the prominence of the Adam’s apple and vocal pitch in a single surgical procedure. The first component is a scarless tracheal shave, performed endoscopically to reduce the Adam’s apple without creating external scars. The second is vocal feminization surgery (VFSRAC), which shortens and repositions the vocal folds to raise vocal pitch while maintaining voice stability.

By combining these procedures, patients are able to complete two essential steps in their gender-affirming journey at once, reducing recovery time and overall surgical risk.

Los Angeles TRANSform procedure model with blonde hair

Coordinated Results, Reduced Recovery

TRANSform Surgery Benefits

The advantages of the TRANSform procedure extend beyond simply being a cosmetic surgery with natural-looking results.

A single anesthesia session instead of two separate surgeries
Reduced overall recovery time and disruption to daily life
No external scarring with the endoscopic tracheal shave approach
Stable and permanent elevation of vocal pitch
Procedures performed by a surgeon with expertise in both the voice box and facial structures
A consistent, coordinated result between voice and appearance

Who Can Benefit from TRANSform?

TRANSform Surgery Candidates

The TRANSform procedure has been helpful for many transgender women, non-binary individuals, and others within the gender-diverse community who want their voice and neck appearance to better reflect their gender identity. Some cisgender patients may also seek this surgery to address concerns related to the Adam’s apple or vocal pitch that are not tied to gender affirmation. You may be a good candidate if you are generally in good health, over 18 years old, and able to safely undergo anesthesia.

This surgery is not considered a cosmetic procedure in the sense of vanity; instead, it is a gender-affirming approach intended to reduce gender dysphoria and support daily life. Patients who feel discomfort about both their voice and the prominence of their Adam’s apple often benefit from the combined approach.

Individuals with significant medical conditions that make anesthesia unsafe may not be good candidates. Those with untreated voice disorders, active infections, or unrealistic expectations about surgical outcomes should postpone or avoid the procedure until these issues are addressed.

Los Angeles TRANSform procedure model with brown hair

Enhance Your Confidence and Embrace Your Identity

Consultation and Preparation

The initial consultation is an opportunity for patients to discuss their goals, health history, and any concerns with Dr. Mendelsohn. The process includes a thorough medical evaluation and a detailed explanation of what the surgery involves. This step ensures that patients are informed and prepared to make the best decision for their care.

Preparation for surgery usually involves pausing certain medications or supplements, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and arranging for support during the early recovery period. These measures are important for minimizing risk and supporting healing.

A Closer Look at the Technique

Your TRANSform Surgery Procedure

The procedure is performed in an accredited operating room under general anesthesia. It typically lasts between two and three hours. Using an endoscopic technique, Dr. Mendelsohn reduces the prominence of the Adam’s apple internally, avoiding external incisions. He then performs the VFSRAC technique for vocal feminization, which involves adjusting the vocal folds to achieve a higher pitch.

Both procedures are completed in one session, which lowers the risk associated with multiple exposures to anesthesia and provides a coordinated outcome.

Feel More Like Yourself

Results

Initial changes are often noticeable shortly after surgery. Patients typically observe improvements in both vocal pitch and the contour of the neckline right away. As swelling decreases over the following weeks, results become more refined and stable.

Vocal pitch changes achieved through the VFSRAC technique are permanent, and the tracheal shave leaves no external scarring when performed endoscopically. Patients generally find that the outcome provides a consistent alignment between voice and appearance. Final results are typically seen in two to four weeks once all swelling subsides.

What Recovery Looks Like

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery process usually requires one week of complete voice rest, followed by gradual reintroduction of vocal use under the guidance of a speech therapist. Strenuous physical activity should be limited during the first week of the healing period, with most patients returning to regular routines in two to three weeks.

Post-operative care involves attending follow-up appointments, avoiding strain on the vocal folds, and maintaining good incision care practices as directed. Long-term outcomes are supported by adherence to these aftercare guidelines and consistent communication with the surgical team.

Cost, Coverage, and Your Options

How Much Does TRANSform Surgery Cost?

The cost for each TRANSform surgical procedure in the Los Angeles area is $15,000, for a total cost of $30,000. Your total cost may change, however, depending on whether additional procedures like fat transfer or breast augmentation are performed at the same time. Fees generally cover the surgeon, anesthesiologist, facility, anesthesia, and post-operative care. Because each case is unique, cost is discussed during your first appointment after a full treatment plan is developed.

In many cases, insurance may provide coverage for gender-affirming procedures, including tracheal shave and vocal feminization surgery. Coverage depends on the patient’s insurance plan, medical necessity requirements, and applicable state or federal guidelines. Because policies vary, it is important to verify benefits directly with your provider.

Trusted Expertise in Gender-Affirming Care

Why Choose Dr. Abie Mendelsohn?

Dr. Mendelsohn takes great pride in being the creator of the TRANSform procedure and among the only surgeons worldwide performing this combined approach. His training as a board-certified plastic surgeon, combined with subspecialty expertise in the voice box and airway, makes him uniquely qualified to carry out both aspects of this surgery safely.

His practice emphasizes patient safety, exceptional care, and long-term outcomes. Beyond gender-affirming care, he has extensive experience in reconstructive plastic surgery, facial rejuvenation, and hair restoration for thinning hair and reduced hair density. Patients choose Dr. Mendelsohn for their transgender surgeries not only for his surgical skills but for his careful, individualized approach to each case.

Take the Next Step with TRANSform

Schedule Your Los Angeles TRANSform Consultation at Gender Affirming Care Center Today

Schedule your TRANSform surgery Los Angeles consult today with Dr. Mendelsohn. To learn more about this surgical procedure and determine whether it is right for you, call (323) 306-9632 or complete the online form to request an appointment.

TRANSform Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

Will my voice sound natural after vocal feminization surgery?

Yes. The technique used in the TRANSform procedure is designed to raise pitch while maintaining stability and clarity. With proper healing and voice therapy, patients typically achieve a natural vocal quality that supports their identity in daily communication.

Is TRANSform surgery painful?

Discomfort after TRANSform surgery is usually manageable and varies by patient. Most patients report soreness in the throat and neck during the first week, particularly while swallowing or speaking. Voice rest and prescribed pain medication during the initial recovery period also helps minimize any residual pain or discomfort.

Are TRANSform surgeries safe?

Yes. When performed by an experienced, board-certified surgeon like Dr. Mendelsohn, the procedure is considered safe. Patient safety is prioritized through careful planning and monitoring.

How long do TRANSform results last?

The results are long-lasting. Vocal pitch changes achieved with this procedure are permanent, and the neckline contour remains stable after healing.

Can TRANSform surgery be combined with other procedures?

Yes. Some patients choose to combine TRANSform with other procedures, such as rhinoplasty, facial feminization surgery, and other transgender surgery options, depending on their individual goals. These options are discussed during your first consultation to ensure the treatment plan is safe and appropriate.

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.

TRANSform Surgery in Los Angeles, CA