Thyroidectomy

Thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland. The exact procedure depends on the diagnosis and on how much of the gland is involved.

Short Answer

Lobectomy removes one lobe, total thyroidectomy removes both, and completion thyroidectomy removes the remaining lobe after an initial lobectomy when pathology confirms the need.

Types of Thyroidectomy

Lobectomy is offered in unilateral disease. Total thyroidectomy is used for bilateral nodular disease, multinodular goiter and most thyroid cancers. Completion is done when malignancy is confirmed after an initial lobectomy.

Treatment Options

  • Lobectomy
  • Total thyroidectomy
  • Completion thyroidectomy

When Is Surgery Considered?

  • Confirmed malignancy
  • Bilateral or extensive nodular disease
  • Pressure symptoms

Surgical Methods

  • Short cervical incision
  • Nerve monitoring
  • Parathyroid preservation

Preoperative Preparation

  • Recent imaging and biopsy
  • Hormone tests
  • Anaesthesia review
  • Medication and blood thinner plan

Postoperative Follow-up

  • Soft diet
  • Voice rest
  • Calcium and hormone tablets as prescribed
  • Outpatient follow-up

Risks and Safe Surgery

  • Voice change
  • Low calcium
  • Bleeding
  • Wound infection
  • Scar

Process in Antalya

Imaging, biopsy and hormone results are reviewed together; the type of thyroidectomy is decided with you and a clear surgical plan is shared.

When to Seek Urgent Care

  • • Sudden neck swelling
  • • Severe breathlessness
  • • Severe tingling and cramping

Frequently Asked Questions

After total thyroidectomy yes; after lobectomy only if blood tests show the need.

Related Pages

Appointments and Directions

WhatsApp and email are for administrative matters such as appointments and directions only. Please do not send health data or medical documents (ultrasound, biopsy/pathology, blood tests, images, reports, prescriptions, symptom summaries or ID documents); no diagnosis, treatment advice or pre-assessment is given by message. In an emergency call 112 (in Türkiye) or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency department.

This information is provided for general patient education only and does not replace diagnosis, treatment or a surgical decision. Personal evaluation requires a clinical examination and the necessary tests.

Content update date: 24 September 2026 · Responsible for content: Op.Dr.Gökhan ATEŞ · atesdr@yahoo.com

Thyroid & Goiter Surgery Antalya · Özel Antalya Medicalpark Hastanesi