Can Voice Changes Help Adults Sound More Mature? Exploring Options

The voice hasn't "matured."

I am 24 years old, but people often say that my voice sounds like a child's, and some even say it sounds like a girl's.
This has caused me significant difficulties in my interpersonal relationships and has made me hesitant to speak, resulting in my voice becoming very soft.
I would like to ask the doctor if it is possible to improve this through surgery or medication.
If so, what are the potential side effects? Additionally, what are the costs involved? Thank you!

fēng qì, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/06/24

Dr. Cai Zhenggu reply Otolaryngology

Hello! Speech therapy can be used to correct your voice.
Health insurance provides coverage for this.

Reply Date: 2004/06/24

More Info

Voice changes can indeed help adults sound more mature, and there are several options available for those who feel their voice does not match their age or gender identity. In your case, at 24 years old, feeling that your voice sounds childlike or feminine can understandably lead to social discomfort and reluctance to speak. Fortunately, there are medical and therapeutic avenues to explore that may help you achieve a voice that feels more aligned with your identity.

Medical Options
1. Voice Therapy: Before considering surgical options, many professionals recommend starting with voice therapy. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can work with you to develop techniques to modify your pitch, resonance, and overall vocal quality. This approach is non-invasive and can be very effective. Voice therapy often includes exercises to strengthen the vocal cords and improve breath control, which can help you project your voice more confidently.

2. Hormonal Treatments: If you are assigned female at birth and wish to lower your voice, testosterone therapy is an option. Testosterone can lead to vocal changes, including a deeper voice, as it affects the size and tension of the vocal cords. However, it’s important to consult with an endocrinologist to discuss the potential benefits and risks, as well as the long-term implications of hormone therapy.

3. Surgical Options: There are surgical procedures available for voice modification. For individuals seeking to lower their pitch, procedures such as vocal cord shortening or thyroplasty can be performed. Conversely, for those looking to raise their pitch, procedures like cricothyroid approximation may be considered. Surgery can provide more immediate results, but it carries risks, including complications such as scarring, changes in voice quality, or even loss of voice. It’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with an experienced otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) who specializes in voice surgery to understand the potential outcomes and risks.

Considerations and Side Effects
When considering any medical intervention, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against potential side effects. Hormonal treatments can lead to changes in body composition, mood swings, and other systemic effects. Surgical options may result in temporary or permanent changes to your voice, and there is always a risk of complications.

Costs
The costs associated with voice therapy, hormonal treatments, and surgical options can vary widely based on location, healthcare provider, and whether you have insurance coverage. Voice therapy sessions may be covered by insurance, but it’s advisable to check with your provider. Hormonal treatments typically require ongoing monitoring and may have associated costs. Surgical procedures can be more expensive, often ranging from several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the facility.

Conclusion
In summary, there are multiple avenues to explore if you wish to modify your voice to sound more mature. Starting with voice therapy is often the most recommended approach, as it is non-invasive and can yield significant improvements. If you are considering hormonal treatments or surgical options, it is vital to consult with qualified healthcare professionals who can guide you through the process, ensuring that you make informed decisions based on your individual needs and circumstances. Remember, the journey to finding your voice is personal, and it’s important to choose the path that feels right for you.

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