The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism, heart rate and energy.
Surgery may be advised for:
A large goitre causing swallowing or breathing difficulty.
Nodules suspicious for cancer or confirmed thyroid cancer.
Hyperthyroidism not controlled by medicines or radioiodine.
Cosmetic concern from visible neck swelling.
Swelling, nodules, overactivity or cancer may require surgery.
Removes one lobe of the thyroid.
Removes the entire gland.
In cancer cases nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.
Techniques such as nerve monitoring help protect the voice nerves and parathyroid glands.
Tests include thyroid function, ultrasound, fine-needle aspiration and, where needed, vocal cord checks. After surgery, hospital stay is usually one to three days. If the whole gland is removed, you will take daily thyroid hormone tablets, and your doctor will adjust the dose through blood tests. Calcium levels are monitored in the early period.
We connect you with head and neck or endocrine surgeons, arrange all pre-operative tests and help you secure a medical visa. Reports and dosage plans are prepared so your local endocrinologist can continue care.
Most patients have a normal voice. Rarely, temporary hoarseness occurs.
A small neck incision is placed along a natural skin crease and generally fades well.