Thyroidectomy

What Is a Thyroidectomy?

A thyroidectomy is surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland — a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck that helps control your body’s metabolism, energy levels, and many other functions.

Why You Might Need One

Your doctor may recommend a thyroidectomy if you have:

  • Thyroid cancer

  • Large goiter (enlarged thyroid) causing trouble with swallowing or breathing

  • Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) that doesn’t respond to medication

  • Suspicious nodules that could be cancerous

Preparing for the Procedure

Pre-surgery testing: Blood tests and imaging may be needed beforehand.

  • Medication review: Your doctor may adjust thyroid medicine, blood thinners, or other medications.

  • Anesthesia instructions: You’ll need to stop eating and drinking for several hours before surgery.

  • Plan for a ride home: You’ll be under anesthesia, so you’ll need someone to drive you.

  • Hospital stay: Many thyroidectomies are outpatient or require just one night in the hospital.

What to Expect During Surgery

You’ll be under general anesthesia (completely asleep).

  • The surgeon makes a small incision in the lower front of the neck.

  • Depending on your condition, part of the thyroid (lobectomy) or the entire gland (total thyroidectomy) will be removed.

  • The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours.

After a Thyroidectomy

Recovery: Most patients go home the same day or the next morning. Some soreness in the neck and hoarseness in the voice is common but usually temporary.

  • Activity: Light activity can resume in a few days; full recovery takes about 1–2 weeks.

  • Medication: If your entire thyroid is removed, you’ll need lifelong thyroid hormone replacement pills.

  • Follow-up: Your doctor will review pathology results, adjust medications, and monitor your thyroid hormone levels with blood tests.

Why It Matters

A thyroidectomy can treat serious thyroid problems, relieve uncomfortable symptoms, and — when cancer is present — offer the best chance for cure. With the right follow-up care, most people go on to live normal, healthy lives.

Learn More

Watch the video below to see how thyroid surgery is performed and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.