Thyroid surgery, also called thyroidectomy, involves the surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland, the butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck. This small but vital gland produces thyroid hormone, which regulates metabolism, heart rate and overall energy levels. A healthy thyroid ensures your body’s systems work in harmony, from regulating weight to maintaining proper cardiovascular function.
Thyroidectomy is recommended for various thyroid disorders, including an overactive thyroid, an enlarged thyroid (goitre), suspicious thyroid nodules or thyroid cancer. In the case of thyroid cancer, like many head and neck cancers, surgery is often the primary treatment, with careful planning to remove cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding structures. Learn more about head and neck cancer treatment here. While thyroid surgery is generally considered safe, understanding the procedure, potential risks and post-operative care can help you feel prepared and supported throughout the recovery process.
Proper preparation is key to a safe and smooth thyroidectomy. Your surgeon will provide personalised instructions tailored to your health and the specifics of your condition.
Fasting is usually required before surgery. This means avoiding food and drink for a set period, often beginning the night before, to reduce the risk of complications during anaesthesia. You may also be asked to adjust or temporarily stop certain medications, particularly blood thinners, to minimise bleeding risk.
Before the operation, blood tests are performed to assess thyroid hormone levels, overall thyroid function and blood calcium levels. Some patients may need oral calcium or Vitamin D supplements to prevent low calcium levels after surgery, which can cause muscle cramps or tingling sensations. Monitoring blood calcium is particularly important in the first few days after total thyroidectomy surgery to ensure the parathyroid glands are functioning properly. These steps may seem detailed, but each one plays a critical role in ensuring a safe procedure and supporting a smooth recovery.
During thyroidectomy, the surgeon carefully removes all or part of the thyroid gland through a small incision at the front of the neck. The approach depends on the condition being treated and the extent of disease.
A total thyroidectomy involves removing the whole thyroid gland, while a partial thyroidectomy may remove only one lobe or the affected area of the gland. In cases of thyroid cancer or suspicious thyroid nodules, surgeons aim to remove the diseased tissue completely while preserving surrounding structures, including the parathyroid glands, which help regulate calcium and the laryngeal nerves which help move the vocal cords.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you will be asleep and closely monitored throughout. A specialised breathing tube is inserted to ensure proper ventilation, and simultaneously monitor the function of your laryngeal nerves. Your surgical team takes meticulous care during the operation to minimise risks and support a smooth recovery. For patients whose thyroid is removed completely, follow-up care and monitoring of hormone levels become essential to maintain optimal health.
Recovery begins immediately in the hospital, where nurses monitor your breathing, heart rate and comfort levels. Mild pain, stiffness or bruising in the neck area is common, and your care team will provide pain relief tailored to your needs. Some patients notice temporary changes in their voice or swallowing; these are usually mild and resolve over time. The surgical and nursing teams will monitor you very closely immediately after surgery to ensure no fluid or blood accumulates in the space where your thyroid was.
It’s important to avoid heavy lifting, bending or strenuous activity for several weeks after surgery. This precaution helps prevent complications and supports proper healing of the incision and surrounding tissues. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to ensure optimal healing of your scar, monitor your thyroid hormone levels, assess thyroid function and check blood calcium levels. These visits are also an opportunity to adjust medications if required.
Common thyroidectomy side effects you may experience include:
Some patients notice a hoarse, weak or tired voice after thyroid surgery. This can occur if the nerves controlling the voice box are affected during the procedure. In most cases, these vocal cord function changes improve over time, though a small number of patients may experience longer-lasting effects. Voice therapy or speech exercises can help speed recovery if needed. ENT surgeons are specialists in managing dysfunction of the voice box, and minimally invasive procedures are available to help strengthen the voice box if needed.
It is normal to feel neck or shoulder stiffness after surgery due to positioning during the operation. Pain medicine usually helps manage discomfort. For the first few weeks, it is important to avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise like running, and rapid head movements. Swallowing may feel sore for a few days, so soft foods are recommended during this period. Gentle stretching, massage or physiotherapy can assist in regaining comfort and mobility over the weeks following your surgery.
If the surgery affects the parathyroid glands, your blood calcium levels will be monitored. Low calcium (hypocalcaemia) can cause symptoms such as tingling in the hands, feet and lips, headaches or muscle cramps. Some patients may need temporary or ongoing vitamin D and/or calcium supplements until parathyroid function stabilises. It is important to take calcium supplements at least two hours apart from thyroid hormone replacement tablets to ensure proper absorption.
Thyroidectomy typically results in a small horizontal scar on the front of the neck, usually 4-6 cm long and located in a natural skin crease just above the collarbone. Initially, the scar may appear red, but it generally fades over time. Your doctor may recommend special tape or creams to help the scar heal and reduce visibility. Keeping the area moisturised and protecting it from sun exposure also supports optimal healing.
Pain management is an important part of the recovery process. Your doctor may prescribe painkillers or recommend over-the-counter medication to help manage discomfort. Gentle neck stretches, shoulder rolls and ice packs can also relieve stiffness and swelling.
While some discomfort is expected, it’s essential to be alert for signs of complications. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice excessive bleeding, swelling, infection or difficulty breathing. Understanding what is normal and what requires urgent care helps reduce anxiety and ensures timely intervention if needed.
Recovery after thyroid surgery varies for each individual, but most people can gradually resume their usual activities within a few weeks. Rest is crucial in the first few days, followed by a slow return to light activities.
Gentle exercises, such as neck stretches and shoulder movements, support flexibility and reduce stiffness. Maintaining a balanced diet, rich in calcium and vitamin D, can help protect bone health and support thyroid function. Adequate hydration and a healthy diet will support overall healing and energy levels. Monitoring blood calcium during this period can help detect any changes in parathyroid function early, ensuring timely intervention if needed.
Patients recovering from thyroid surgery are encouraged to monitor their energy, mood and any physical changes. Keeping a simple journal of symptoms and progress can be helpful when discussing recovery with your doctor.
If your entire thyroid gland is removed, your body will no longer produce thyroid hormone naturally. In these cases, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is prescribed to maintain healthy thyroid hormone levels and regulate thyroid function. Some patients who have only had half of their gland removed may also ultimately require some thyroid hormone replacement at some stage.
Your surgeon, GP or endocrinologist will work closely with you to determine the right dose, adjusting it over time based on regular blood tests. This ongoing monitoring ensures your metabolism, energy and overall health remain stable. Patients often notice improvements in energy and mood once their hormone levels are properly balanced.
Most patients can return to normal work, exercise and daily routines within a few weeks. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidance regarding activity restrictions, gradually reintroducing exercise and physical tasks as your body allows.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports recovery. Adequate sleep, stress management and a nutrient-rich diet all contribute to healing. Staying attentive to subtle changes, such as voice changes or persistent numbness, allows for timely discussion with your care team and prevents potential complications from becoming serious issues.
While thyroidectomy is generally safe, it carries some risks, as with any surgical procedure. Possible complications include:
Patients with thyroid cancer may face additional considerations, such as further surgery to remove lymph nodes, the other half of the thyroid gland, radioactive iodine treatment and ongoing monitoring for recurrence. Your care team will explain potential risks in detail and provide guidance on recognising symptoms that require prompt attention, such as difficulty breathing, severe swelling or unusual pain. Patients whose thyroid is removed must also maintain regular follow-up to ensure proper hormone replacement and thyroid function.
Recovery from thyroid surgery requires patience, care and close communication with your specialists. By following your doctor’s specific instructions, attending follow-up appointments, and monitoring thyroid hormone levels, most patients can enjoy a smooth recovery and maintain optimal thyroid function.
Practical tips to support your healing are to:
With careful planning and support, patients can achieve a successful recovery, improve quality of life and confidently resume normal activities after thyroid surgery, even when you have had your whole thyroid removed.
For personalised guidance and expert support throughout your thyroid surgery journey, contact us to book a consultation with Complete ENT today.
Our specialists will provide tailored advice, answer your questions and ensure you feel confident and supported before, during and after your procedure.
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07 3905 5999