Total Thyroidectomy
In total thyroidectomy both lobes and the isthmus of the thyroid are removed. The operation is used for thyroid cancer, multinodular goiter and selected toxic goiters.
Total thyroidectomy is the standard operation for most thyroid cancers and bilateral nodular disease. Lifelong thyroid hormone replacement is required afterwards.
Why Total Removal?
Disease that is bilateral, multifocal or malignant is rarely controlled by removing one lobe alone; total removal reduces recurrence and makes follow-up more accurate, especially in cancer.
Treatment Options
- Total thyroidectomy
- Central neck dissection when indicated for cancer
When Is Surgery Considered?
- Thyroid cancer
- Multinodular goiter
- Uncontrolled Graves' disease
- Large symptomatic goiter
Surgical Methods
- Standard cervical approach
- Bilateral nerve monitoring
- Identification and preservation of all four parathyroid glands
Preoperative Preparation
- Hormone control before surgery
- Imaging review
- Anaesthesia consult
- Stop smoking
Postoperative Follow-up
- Lifelong levothyroxine
- Calcium and vitamin D as required
- Hormone titration over the first months
- Endocrinology 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; surgery date and total length of stay are planned, including pre- and post-operative checks.
When to Seek Urgent Care
- • Severe tingling, cramping or seizures (low calcium)
- • Acute neck swelling
- • Severe breathlessness
Frequently Asked Questions
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