An Examination of Vocal Tract Acoustics following Wendler’s Glottoplasty

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the formant frequency (FF) features of transgender females’ (TFs) voice after Wendler’s glottoplasty surgery and compare these levels with age-matched healthy males and females. Study Design: Controlled prospective. Methods: 20 TFs and 20 genetically male and female age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. The fundamental frequency (F0) and FFs F1–F4 were obtained from TF speakers 6 months after surgery. These levels were compared with those of healthy controls. Results: Statistical analysis showed that the median F0 values were similar between TFs and females. The median F1 levels of TFs were different from females but similar to males. The F2 levels of TFs were similar to females but different from males. The F3 and F4 levels were significantly different from both male and female controls. Conclusion: Wendler’s glottoplasty technique is an effective method to increase F0 levels among TF patients; however, these individuals report their voice does not sufficiently project femininity. The results obtained with regard to FF levels may be the reason for this problem. Voice therapy is recommended as a possible approach to assist TF patients achieve a satisfactory feminine voice.