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Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Shikhil P, Endocrine Surgeon, Baby Memorial Hospitals - Kozhikode

Thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that regulates metabolism through thyroid hormone production. The surgery is performed to treat thyroid nodules, goiter, hyperthyroidism, or thyroid cancer, and is among the safest and most effective endocrine surgeries when performed by experienced specialists.

What is a thyroidectomy?

A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part (hemithyroidectomy/lobectomy) or entire gland (total thyroidectomy). The extent of removal depends on the patient’s condition, diagnosis, and overall health..

When is thyroidectomy recommended?

Your doctor may recommend thyroidectomy if you have:

  • Thyroid cancer (confirmed or suspected)
  • Large goiter causing breathing or swallowing difficulties
  • Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) not responding to medication or radioiodine therapy
  • Thyroid nodules suspicious for malignancy
  • Recurrent multinodular goiter or compressive retrosternal goiter
Is thyroidectomy safe?

Yes. Thyroidectomy is a safe and routine procedure when performed by experienced specialist Surgeons.

Modern surgical advances have made the operation more precise and safer than ever before. Key safety measures include:

Intra-operative Nerve Monitoring (IONM)Used to identify and preserve the recurrent laryngeal nerve that controls the voice, minimizing the risk of hoarseness.

Preservation of Parathyroid GlandsCareful identification and preservation of parathyroid glands prevent post-operative hypocalcemia.

Parathyroid Auto-transplantationIf a parathyroid gland is inadvertently devascularized, it is transplanted into a nearby muscle (usually the sternocleidomastoid) to maintain calcium balance.

Use of Magnification and Energy DevicesEnhances precision, reduces blood loss, and improves visualization of critical structures.

How is thyroidectomy performed?
  • The procedure is done under general anesthesia.
  • A small incision is made in the front of the neck.
  • All or part of the thyroid gland is carefully removed.
  • The incision is closed cosmetically to minimize scarring.

In select cases, endoscopic or robotic-assisted thyroidectomy may be offered for better precision and aesthetics.

What are the risks of thyroidectomy?

Though rare, possible risks include:

  • Temporary or permanent hoarseness (due to vocal cord nerve irritation)
  • Low calcium levels (if parathyroid glands are affected)
  • Minor bleeding, seroma, or infection

These risks are minimized with expert surgical care and monitoring.

What is recovery like after thyroidectomy?
  • Hospital stay: Usually 1–2 days
  • Pain: Mild and well-controlled with medication
  • Return to normal activities: Within 7–10 days
  • Scar: Usually small and fades over time

Most patients experience an excellent recovery with minimal discomfort.

Will I need thyroid medication after thyroidectomy?

If the entire thyroid gland is removed, lifelong thyroid hormone replacement is necessary to maintain normal metabolism. If only part of the gland is removed, your doctor will monitor thyroid levels and decide if medication is needed.

What are the benefits of thyroidectomy?
  • Relief from symptoms of goiter or hyperthyroidism
  • Effective treatment for thyroid cancer
  • Prevention of recurrence or complications
  • Improved breathing, swallowing, and overall quality of life
Connect with Our Experts Today

If you are experiencing thyroid nodules, swelling, or hormonal imbalance, the Endocrine & Head-Neck Surgery Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers safe, precise, and advanced thyroidectomy procedures — including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted approaches for faster recovery and superior outcomes.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our thyroid surgery specialists.

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