Why is thyroid surgery performed? And if you need surgery, what options are available? What are the differences between thyroidectomy and lobectomy? Is there any technique that minimizes the scar? What type of anesthesia is used? What can you expect after surgery? What will your scar eventually look like? Find out the answers to these questions, and more, in this in-depth article on thyroid surgery.
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I had 1/2 of my thyroid removed under general anesthesia to remove suspected cancer in small nodules. I’m adding some details that are different than what Mary reported.
I was told the sugery would last a couple of hours and I would stay overnight. Mine lasted 3.5 hrs and I spent two nights. My calcium levels dropped below normal. I didn’t have tingling but I was very agitated and dizzy. I was told my scar would be a “line” that would blend into my neck. Mine ended up lumpy. Most people do very well with thyroid surgery. I wanted to let others know what can happen and to underscore the importance of trying all other options before surgery. If surgery is not avoidable, it’s important to chose a surgeon that specializes in thyroid surgery.
I had a total thyroidectomy about a year and a half ago. I spent 2 nights in the hospital. I was fortunate to have a wonderful surgeon who when he came to visit me sat and held my hand while he spoke to me and comforted me as he explained why he removed the entire thyroid and 3/4 of the parathyroids. He was very reassuring. Recovery was slow, but steady and I had no complications. I was fortunate. My scar now is almost non-existent! only I see it. I even had a Nurse look twice after I told her I had surgery to remove my thryoid. She only saw the scar after I pointed it out to her. The only lasting complications I have is the loss of my singing voice and low vitamin D and calcium levels in which I take orally now. The surgery is very scary to think about, but in reality, not as bad as I thought it was going to be – and I’m a really big baby!