Thyroid Surgery Gold Coast

Usually not. Thyroid nodules are common, and most are benign. However, some nodules need further tests to rule out cancer, so any new lump in the neck should be checked by your doctor.

Investigation usually includes blood tests to check how your thyroid is working, an ultrasound of the neck and, if needed, a fine needle biopsy, where a thin needle takes cells from the nodule for testing. Surgery may be recommended if the biopsy result is unclear or suggests cancer.

A hemithyroidectomy removes one half of the thyroid, and a total thyroidectomy removes the whole gland. The right operation depends on the reason for surgery, your test results and your health, and Dr Gault will explain his recommendation.

After a total thyroidectomy, you will need to take thyroid hormone tablets every day for life to replace the hormone your thyroid used to make. After a hemithyroidectomy, many people do not need tablets because the remaining half of the thyroid makes enough hormone, but some do. Your thyroid levels will be checked with blood tests after surgery.

The nerves that control the voice box run close to the thyroid. A hoarse or weak voice for a short time after surgery is not unusual, and usually improves. Permanent voice change is uncommon. Dr Gault will explain this risk and how it applies to you before surgery.

The parathyroid glands are four small glands next to the thyroid that control calcium levels in the blood. After thyroid surgery, particularly a total thyroidectomy, they can be affected, causing low calcium. This can cause tingling around the mouth or in the fingers. It is usually temporary and treated with calcium tablets, but occasionally it is permanent.

Most people stay in hospital for one night after thyroid surgery, and sometimes longer, for example if calcium levels need to be monitored after a total thyroidectomy. Dr Gault operates at Pindara Private Hospital, Benowa.

A sore throat, some neck stiffness and tiredness are common for a short time after surgery. Many people return to light activities within a week or two, although recovery varies. The cut is usually placed in a natural skin crease, and the scar tends to fade over the following months, although how scars heal differs from person to person.

Like any surgery, thyroid surgery carries risks. These can include bleeding in the neck, infection, voice changes, low calcium levels, the need for lifelong thyroid hormone tablets, and scarring. There are also risks associated with the anaesthetic. If you notice rapidly increasing swelling in your neck or difficulty breathing after surgery, call 000 immediately. Dr Gault will explain the risks that apply to you before surgery.

It depends on the type and stage of the cancer. Some people need no further treatment after surgery, while others may be recommended radioactive iodine treatment. Your care may involve an endocrinologist, and you will have ongoing follow-up with blood tests and sometimes ultrasound scans.

Costs vary depending on the type of surgery, the hospital and your level of health insurance cover. Please contact our rooms on (07) 5539 3999 to discuss the likely costs for your situation. You may also wish to check with your private health fund about your cover and any excess.

You can book by calling (07) 5539 3999 or by sending a message through the Quick Enquiry form on this page. A referral from your GP or another medical practitioner is needed to claim a Medicare rebate for your consultation. Our rooms are at Suite 11, Pindara Place, 13 Carrara Street, Benowa QLD 4217.