When does adams apple stop growing
When does adams apple stop growing The growth of the Adam’s apple, also known as the laryngeal prominence, is a prominent feature of male puberty and plays a significant role in differentiating male and female voices. This cartilage structure, part of the thyroid cartilage surrounding the larynx, begins to develop during adolescence when hormonal changes trigger physical transformations. Understanding when the Adam’s apple stops growing provides insight into male development and the normal progression of puberty.
Typically, the growth of the Adam’s apple coincides with the overall progression of puberty in boys. This process usually starts between ages 9 and 14, with the most rapid growth occurring around 12 to 16 years old. During this period, increased levels of testosterone stimulate the growth of the larynx and the surrounding cartilage. As the larynx enlarges, the voice deepens and the Adam’s apple becomes more prominent. The size of the Adam’s apple varies widely among individuals, influenced by genetic factors, hormonal levels, and overall pubertal development.
Most males will notice that their Adam’s apple continues to grow and become more prominent throughout puberty, reaching its final size typically around the late teens or early twenties. This growth phase usually peaks between 14 and 17 years of age. After this period, the growth of the Adam’s apple tends to slow significantly and eventually stops. By the age of 20, the structure has usually reached its adult size, and further growth is rare. However, some individuals might observe subtle changes beyond this age, especially if hormonal levels fluctuate or in cases of certain medical conditions.
The cessation of Adam’s apple growth aligns with the end of puberty, which is a complex hormonal and physical process. Once the growth plates in the laryngeal cartilage close and hormonal production stabilizes, the structure stops enlarging. This stabilization often marks the completion of the secondary sexual characteristic development in males. It’s important to note that while the size of the Adam’s apple stabilizes, the cartilage remains flexible and can be affected by factors such as weight, age, or medical procedures.
In some cases, individuals may seek to modify the appearance of their Adam’s apple through surgical procedures like chondrolaryngoplasty, often called a “tracheal shave,” especially if it is disproportionately prominent. These procedures typically target the cartilage that forms the Adam’s apple, which has already stopped growing naturally in adulthood.
In conclusion, the growth of the Adam’s apple generally stops by the early twenties, following the conclusion of puberty. This process reflects the broader development of male secondary sexual characteristics and signifies the end of significant physical changes related to testosterone-driven growth in the larynx. Understanding this timeline helps in recognizing normal developmental milestones and addressing concerns related to physical appearance or health.
