Thyroid surgery (thyroidectomy)
Surgery for goitre, thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer — performed with meticulous technique to protect the voice and parathyroid glands.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that controls metabolism. Surgery (thyroidectomy) is advised for an enlarging goitre, suspicious or growing nodules, overactive thyroid not controlled by other means, or thyroid cancer. Because important structures — the nerves to the voice box and the tiny parathyroid glands — sit right beside the thyroid, this operation demands precise, unhurried technique.
Dr. Sabir assesses each patient with examination, thyroid function tests, ultrasound and, where needed, a fine-needle biopsy before recommending surgery. Depending on the diagnosis, part of the gland (hemithyroidectomy) or the whole gland (total thyroidectomy) may be removed, with the aim of a safe operation and a good cosmetic result.
Voice-protective technique
Careful identification of the nerves to the voice box during surgery.
Accurate diagnosis first
Ultrasound and biopsy to plan the right extent of surgery.
Cancer & benign disease
Surgery for goitre, nodules and thyroid cancer.
The thyroid surgery pathway
Most patients recover quickly after thyroid surgery, with a short hospital stay and a discreet neck scar that fades over time. Some patients need thyroid hormone tablets afterwards, which Dr. Sabir will explain. You will receive clear guidance on wound care, follow-up and any medication.
- 1
Assessment with thyroid function tests, ultrasound and biopsy where indicated.
- 2
Surgery under general anaesthesia through a small, well-placed neck incision.
- 3
The affected part or whole of the gland is removed while protecting nearby nerves and glands.
- 4
A short hospital stay, with monitoring of calcium and thyroid levels as needed.
Thyroid Surgery — your questions answered
Do all thyroid nodules need surgery?+
No — many nodules are benign and simply monitored. Surgery is advised for suspicious or growing nodules, pressure symptoms, or cancer. Dr. Sabir uses ultrasound and biopsy to guide the decision.
Will thyroid surgery affect my voice?+
The nerves to the voice box are carefully identified and protected during surgery. Temporary voice changes are uncommon and usually settle; Dr. Sabir discusses the risks fully beforehand.
Will I need to take medicine after surgery?+
If the whole gland is removed, you will take a daily thyroid hormone tablet. After partial removal many patients need no medication. This is checked with blood tests.
How big is the scar?+
Thyroid surgery uses a small, carefully placed neck incision that generally heals to a fine line and fades with time.
How long is recovery?+
Most patients go home within a day or two and return to light activity within one to two weeks.
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