Thyroid Surgery
Overview
Thyroid surgery is performed to treat conditions affecting the thyroid gland, which sits at the front of your neck and plays an important role in regulating the body’s metabolism. If you are advised to have this procedure, it is usually because of nodules, enlargement of the gland, or findings that need surgical management.
Depending on your condition, part or all of the thyroid gland may be removed. The aim is to treat the underlying issue while supporting normal hormonal balance and overall health.
When It's Needed
You may need thyroid surgery if you have:
- Thyroid nodules requiring removal
- Enlargement of the thyroid (goitre)
- Findings that need further evaluation
- Symptoms affecting swallowing or breathing
How It's Performed
The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia. It involves:
- Making a small incision at the front of the neck
- Removing part or all of the thyroid gland
- Preserving surrounding structures such as nerves and glands
The extent of surgery depends on your condition and treatment plan. The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours and usually requires a short hospital stay for monitoring and recovery.
What to Expect
Recovery
Recovery is usually gradual. You may experience mild discomfort or swelling in the neck in the early stages.
Depending on the extent of surgery, you may need ongoing monitoring or medication to support thyroid hormone levels. Your care team will guide you through this.
Diagnostics & Tests
Before the procedure, your condition may be assessed using:
These help determine the need and extent of surgery.
Support Services
You may receive support such as:
Call our 24/7 emergency line immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain, fever, or signs of infection after the procedure
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding or sudden swelling