What can you expect after thyroid surgery?

Thyroid surgery: Their are many potential complications from thyroid surgery, these issues are best discussed with the physician who is planning to perform the operation.

See below: Thyroid surgery may involve one side or both sides of the neck depending which side is having surgery, or why. Surgery may be done for benign or cancer lesions. Usually an overnight hospital stay, usually no bleeding or blood transfusions. Low risk to vocal cords or speech & low risk to parathyroid glands & calcium levels. Discomfort for maybe a week.

Varies widely: There is no great answer. For uncomplicated surgery: most have pain especially with swallow for several days, but only need narcotic meds for a week or less--some need more. Remember that stamina is affected for 2-3 weeks and people can tire quickly. I ask for people to take it easy for a week but then no restrictions. Most are back to work after 1 week. Again, it varies widely.