Having Thyroid Surgery

Together, you and your doctor will decide if thyroid surgery is right for you. 

Is It Right For Me?

Thyroid surgery may be the only treatment option if:

• Your thyroid is greatly enlarged and is causing problems for your breathing or swallowing
• Your doctor thinks you may have thyroid cancer
• You have an over-active thyroid that drugs/radioiodine treatment cannot control

What To Expect

Traditional surgery

In traditional, open thyroid surgery, a 2–8 cm incision (cut) is made in the skin of the lower part of the neck. The surgery is done under a general anaesthetic. You will need to stay in the hospital for one or two days.

Next: Traditional Thyroid Surgery