November 6, 2025 Author: Cristina Carvalho The thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and functioning of various body organs. Thyroid is therefore essential for our overall well-being and balance . In some situations, surgery may be necessary to treat thyroid diseases, such as nodules, enlargement of the gland (goiter), or changes suspected of malignancy. Types of thyroid surgery There are different types of thyroid surgery, depending on the problem and the extent of treatment required: Total thyroidectomy : complete removal of the thyroid gland; Lobectomy (or hemithyroidectomy ): removal of only one side or lobes of the thyroid; Reinterventional surgery : indicated in rarer cases, when surgery is necessary again due to recurrence or complications. Hemithyroidectomy may be necessary when there are nodules, benign or malignant, located on only one side of the thyroid. Total thyroidectomy is indicated when there are multiple nodules, especially if they involve the entire gland, or in some malignant tumors. In cases of total thyroid removal due to malignant disease, the goal is to eliminate the tumor, reduce the risk of recurrence, allow the administration of radioactive iodine, and facilitate disease follow-up through the measurement of thyroglobulin (a specific marker of thyroid tissue). Some malignant thyroid tumors can extend to the lymph nodes in the neck. In these cases, surgery also includes the removal of the affected lymph nodes (a procedure called cervical lymph node dissection). What are the consequences of thyroid removal? Thyroid surgery has a low complication rate . Hoarseness is one of the most frequent concerns. It is usually transient and is related to trauma to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. When recovery does not occur spontaneously, speech therapy allows, in most cases, good results. Temporary decrease in blood calcium ( hypoparathyroidism ) may also occur, manifesting as tingling in the hands and around the mouth. These symptoms improve with oral calcium supplementation and are almost always transient. Pain at the surgical incision is usually mild and short-lived. What care is needed after hospital discharge? The incision of thyroid surgery is a small one and located at the base of the neck, so the scar tends to be discreet. At the time of discharge, the surgeon provides the necessary instructions for the treatment of the surgical wound and for a better aesthetic result . Healing, however, depends on individual factors. When cervical lymph nodes are removed, swelling and moderate neck pain may occur, which usually improves with simple analgesic medication. Is medication necessary after surgery? After surgery, analgesics are prescribed for a few days. People who undergo total thyroidectomy need oral thyroxine (T4) hormone replacement for the rest of their lives . Those who undergo lobectomy generally do not need medication. The medication should be taken on an empty stomach, and the dose adjusted according to the results of periodic blood tests. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your doctor! Meet the general surgery clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
