What Is Thyroid Surgery?
The thyroid is a very small but very important gland in the neck that produces hormones involved in metabolism, energy, body temperature, and many other functions. Thyroid conditions are common, and while many can be managed with medication, certain cases may require full or partial removal (thyroidectomy) to address the problem. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained head and neck surgeons at Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat specialize in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, working closely with local endocrinologists to provide comprehensive care in Neptune, Holmdel, and Manahawkin, NJ. We evaluate each patient carefully to check for signs of goiters, nodules, thyroid cancer, or other problems before deciding on an approach, taking the time to answer questions and ensure you feel informed before moving forward. If you've been diagnosed with a thyroid problem or have been recommended for thyroid surgery, contact our experienced providers for care you can trust.
How Is Thyroid Surgery Performed?
Before planning your surgery, we'll carefully evaluate the thyroid and surrounding structures for any signs of abnormalities, including growths or enlargement. Depending on your needs and any previous tests you've had done, this may include bloodwork, an ultrasound, a needle biopsy, or other diagnostic tests. From there, we'll determine if thyroid surgery may be the best way forward and how much of the thyroid needs to be removed.
Thyroidectomies at Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat are performed using general anesthesia. Your surgeon will start by making an incision on the lower front portion of your neck before carefully separating the thyroid from the surrounding tissues and removing the portion that needs treatment. In most cases, patients are able to go home the same day as their thyroid surgery or the next day. Before you leave, we'll provide aftercare guidelines and, if needed, prescribe thyroid medications or vitamin supplements to help you recover.
What Are the Benefits of Thyroid Surgery?
It's normal to have questions and concerns when it comes to thyroid surgery. Our head and neck surgeons at Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat have extensive experience treating thyroid concerns for patients throughout Neptune, Holmdel, and Manahawkin, NJ, thoughtfully planning each procedure and answering questions at every step. The benefits of thyroid surgery performed by our team include:
- Providing lasting relief from uncomfortable neck pressure and fullness
- Allowing you to breathe and swallow more comfortably
- Reducing the risk of thyroid cancer spreading or returning
- Improving energy and overall well-being for patients with an overactive thyroid
- Preventing an enlarged thyroid from causing greater discomfort or challenges over time
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Frequently Asked Questions about Thyroid Surgery
How should I prepare for thyroid surgery?
Our team will give you specific instructions based on your health and details of your surgery. You may need bloodwork or other testing beforehand, and we will review your medications to let you know if anything needs to be temporarily stopped or adjusted. You will also need to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before surgery and arrange for someone to take you home afterward.
How long does a thyroidectomy take?
Thyroid surgery generally takes 2 – 3 hours, though the length of your procedure will depend on how much of the thyroid needs to be removed and how complex the surgery is. Your surgeon at Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat will give you a better estimate during the planning stage.
How much of my thyroid will be removed?
That depends on why you need surgery. Some patients only need one side of the thyroid removed, which is called a thyroid lobectomy. Others need the entire gland removed, known as a total thyroidectomy. The size and location of a nodule, biopsy findings, thyroid cancer, and the overall condition of the gland can all influence that decision.
How will thyroid surgery affect my voice?
You may experience temporary hoarseness or weakness as the area heals, but thyroid surgery typically doesn't cause lasting vocal changes. Our surgeons take extra precautions to protect the area around the vocal cords during surgery. If you do notice a voice change after surgery, reach out to schedule a follow-up exam so we can evaluate it.
Will I have a scar after thyroid surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, thyroid surgery may leave a scar. Incisions are typically placed low on the neck to help minimize their visibility as they heal. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help minimize visible scarring and ensure a smoother recovery after your thyroid surgery.
Learn More About Thyroid Surgery
The idea of thyroid surgery can feel daunting, but Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat is here to answer your questions and help you feel at ease. If you're struggling with a thyroid disorder or have been diagnosed with a thyroid nodule or growth, we invite you to trust our team to help guide you through each stage of your care. Contact our thyroid surgeons in Neptune, Holmdel, or Manahawkin, NJ to learn more about your condition and discuss whether surgery is the right next step.