Table of Contents
What is Goiter Surgery and Why is it Performed?
Goiter surgery is a surgical intervention performed to treat goiter, which is caused by an enlarged thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is an organ located in the front of the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism. When this gland grows larger than normal, it is called a goiter. Goiter can have several causes: genetic factors, iodine deficiency, thyroid diseases (such as thyroid nodules or thyroid cancer), or inflammations. An enlarged thyroid gland can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, or cosmetic problems. Therefore, goiter surgery can be performed to improve the patient’s quality of life and prevent possible serious health problems. In addition, some types of goiter can affect thyroid hormone levels, which can lead to metabolic imbalances. The aim of the surgery is to improve the patient’s health by removing the enlarged thyroid tissue and to prevent possible complications.
In Which Cases Does Thyroid Gland Enlargement (Goiter) Require Surgery?
Goiter surgery is performed when the thyroid gland grows abnormally, but not every growth requires surgery. Situations where goiter needs to be treated include when the patient’s complaints become apparent, when it makes breathing difficult, when it causes difficulty swallowing, and when it causes cosmetic discomfort in the neck. In addition, surgery may be required when the goiter affects thyroid functions and causes excessive hormone production (hyperthyroidism) or insufficient hormone production (hypothyroidism). In patients with suspected thyroid cancer, surgical removal of the goiter is important. In addition, goiter surgery may be necessary if the thyroid nodules grow and become harmful. When it is suspected that the goiter is malignant, surgical intervention is inevitable for a definitive diagnosis. In all these cases, surgical removal of the goiter will be beneficial both functionally and cosmetically.
What is the Decision for Surgery Based on? For Which Patients Is It Mandatory?
The decision for goiter surgery is made based on the patient’s general health status, the size of the thyroid gland, and the symptoms caused by the goiter. If the goiter causes symptoms that bother the person and cannot be controlled with conservative treatments (medication, iodine supplements, etc.), surgical intervention is necessary. When complaints such as neck compression, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness occur due to the thyroid gland enlargement, surgery is recommended. In addition, surgical intervention may be required if the goiter disrupts the hormonal balance and causes hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Goiter surgery is also mandatory for patients at risk of thyroid cancer, those with suspicious biopsy results, or those with nodules that indicate malignancy. Goiter can lead to serious health problems and, if left untreated, can lead to heart disease, osteoporosis, and other complications. Surgery is the most effective method for eliminating such risks.
What are the Types of Goiter Surgery?
Goiter surgery can be performed using different techniques depending on the patient’s condition, the size of the goiter, and the cause. Goiter surgeries can generally be classified into two main categories: total thyroidectomy and subtotal thyroidectomy. Total thyroidectomy involves removing the entire thyroid gland and is usually performed on patients at risk of thyroid cancer. In this procedure, all of the thyroid tissue is removed and the patient may need to start hormone therapy. Subtotal thyroidectomy, on the other hand, is the removal of a portion of the thyroid gland and is usually preferred for removing the growing portion of the goiter. This type of surgery allows the remaining part of the thyroid to remain functional. In addition, if there is no suspicion of thyroid cancer and the patient’s symptoms are mild, subtotal thyroidectomy may be preferred. In cases of advanced goiter, more extensive surgical interventions may be required.
What are the differences between Total Thyroidectomy (Complete Removal of the Thyroid) and Subtotal Thyroidectomy (Partial Removal)?
Total thyroidectomy and subtotal thyroidectomy are the two main surgical techniques used to treat goiter, and the most obvious difference between them is how much of the thyroid gland is removed. Total thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of the entire thyroid gland. This is usually done in cases of thyroid cancer, widespread thyroid disease, or an extremely large goiter. If the entire thyroid gland needs to be removed, patients may need to take thyroid hormone therapy for life because the thyroid gland is the main source of hormone production. Subtotal thyroidectomy, on the other hand, is the removal of only part of the thyroid gland. This procedure preserves the healthy part of the thyroid gland and may be sufficient for most patients. Subtotal thyroidectomy is usually performed in cases of benign goiter or in patients who do not have suspected cancer. Both surgical methods are selected based on the patient’s health status, the size of the goiter, and the cause. Total thyroidectomy requires more extensive surgery, while subtotal thyroidectomy is a more limited procedure and can help preserve thyroid function.
What is Laparoscopic Goiter Surgery and How is it Performed?
Laparoscopic goiter surgery is a minimally invasive surgical intervention performed to treat goiter, which develops as a result of enlargement of the thyroid gland. Unlike traditional goiter surgeries, the laparoscopic method is performed with smaller incisions and the recovery process is faster. In laparoscopic goiter surgery, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the patient’s neck and views the surgical area with a camera (laparoscope). The thyroid gland is operated on with the help of this camera and thin surgical instruments. Laparoscopic surgery leaves fewer aesthetic scars and the patient’s recovery period is shorter. During the surgery, the enlarged part of the goiter can be carefully removed and if necessary, a portion or all of the thyroid can be removed. The laparoscopic technique is preferred especially in cases of small or medium-sized goiter.
What is Goiter Surgery and What Are Its Stages?
Goiter surgery is a surgical procedure performed to treat goiter, which is a result of the enlargement of the thyroid gland. The procedure usually begins with an incision made in the patient’s neck. The surgeon reaches the thyroid gland through this incision and removes the enlarged part of the goiter. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually consists of several stages. The first stage is the application of anesthesia according to the patient’s condition. Then, the surgeon carefully examines the area where the goiter has grown and the thyroid gland. The part of the thyroid gland to be removed is determined and, if necessary, the entire thyroid gland (total thyroidectomy) or only a part of it (subtotal thyroidectomy) is removed. After the surgery, the patient is kept under observation in the hospital for a certain period of time to recover and prevent complications. The last stage is the discharge of the patient. After goiter surgery, the patient can usually return to normal life within a few days.
What Techniques and Equipment Are Used During Surgery?
During goiter surgery, the techniques and equipment that surgeons will use may vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s condition. One of the most commonly used techniques is laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic goiter surgery is a technique performed with smaller incisions, with the help of imaging and surgical instruments. This technique causes less pain, a faster recovery process, and smaller scars. During surgery, the surgeon usually uses a laparoscopic camera to see the thyroid gland and intervene with thin instruments. In addition, in some cases, open surgery can be used. This method is preferred in larger goiter cases or in cases where laparoscopic surgery cannot be applied. The equipment used during surgery includes special surgical instruments, electrocautery devices, and laparoscopic camera systems. This equipment allows the surgeon to intervene in the thyroid gland safely and effectively.
How Long Does the Surgery Take and When Can the Patient Be Discharged?
The duration of goiter surgery may vary depending on the surgeon’s experience, the patient’s condition, and the type of surgery performed. In the traditional open surgery method, the procedure usually takes 1-2 hours. Laparoscopic goiter surgery is usually faster and can be completed in 45 minutes to 1 hour. The duration of the surgery varies depending on the size of the goiter, which part of the thyroid is removed, and possible complications. After the surgery, patients are usually kept under observation in the hospital for a few hours. If there are no complications and the patient feels well, they can usually be discharged on the same day. However, it may be recommended that patients stay in the hospital overnight, as there are some points to consider in the first days of recovery. The patient can return to normal activities within a few days, but it is important to follow the care instructions recommended by the surgeon.
What Tests and Analysis Are Performed Before Goiter Surgery?
Before goiter surgery, the patient’s general health is evaluated and various tests are performed. These tests are necessary to understand the patient’s thyroid functions and the size of the goiter before surgery. First, blood tests are performed. These tests evaluate thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4, TSH) and potential problems such as iodine deficiency. In addition, an ultrasound may be performed to determine the size and structure of the thyroid gland. Ultrasound is used to examine the size of the goiter and the presence of nodules, if any. If it is necessary to decide whether the thyroid nodules are at risk of cancer, a biopsy may be performed. A biopsy is a method used to determine whether the goiter is malignant. In addition, the patient undergoes an anesthesia evaluation to see if general anesthesia is suitable. All of these tests help the surgeon determine the most appropriate treatment method and to perform the surgery safely.
What Kind of Diet Should the Patient Follow Before Surgery?
It is very important for patients to follow a healthy diet before goiter surgery. Diet can improve the patient’s general health before surgery and contribute to the healing process. First, patients are advised to consume foods containing sufficient iodine in order to prevent any conditions that may affect thyroid function, such as iodine deficiency. In addition, a balanced diet helps strengthen the immune system and allows the body to respond better to surgical intervention. In particular, foods rich in protein (such as chicken, fish, eggs) and fresh vegetables and fruits support the body’s healing process. In addition, heavy meals should be avoided in the few days before surgery and lighter, easy-to-digest foods should be preferred over heavy, hard-to-digest foods. Before surgery, it is generally recommended that the patient eat their last meal within 8-12 hours before surgery. Substances that can harm the body, such as alcohol and cigarettes, should be avoided and the patient’s body mass index should be brought to a healthy level. Following the special diet plan recommended by the doctor helps the surgery to be safer and the healing process to be faster.
Which Types of Goiter Require Surgery?
Goiter surgery is not required in every case of goiter. However, some types of goiter require surgical intervention. The types of goiter that require surgery are usually determined by the symptoms experienced by the patient, the size of the goiter, and the risk of cancer, if any. Goiters that are benign but cause problems such as difficulty breathing or swallowing may require surgical intervention. In addition, surgical intervention is performed immediately in cases of goiter that are suspected of being thyroid cancer. On the other hand, surgery may be required in more specific types of goiter such as toxic goiter (poisonous goiter) or nodular goiter. Nodular goiter is a condition related to the growth of nodules in the thyroid, and some nodules may carry the risk of becoming cancerous, so surgery may be unavoidable. Toxic goiter causes metabolic problems due to excessive thyroid hormone production, and surgical intervention is recommended in cases that do not improve despite drug treatment. As a result, the need for surgical intervention is determined depending on the type of goiter, its size, and the patient’s general health status.
Is Surgery Necessary for Nodular Goiter, Toxic Goiter or Large Goiter?
Surgical intervention may be required in cases such as nodular goiter, toxic goiter or large goiter. Nodular goiter occurs with the accumulation of abnormally enlarged nodules in the thyroid and some nodules may be cancerous. In this case, surgical intervention is performed and risky nodules are removed. Considering the size of the nodules and the risk of cancer, the necessity of surgery is determined. Toxic goiter causes metabolic imbalances in the body as a result of the thyroid gland producing excess hormones. This leads to symptoms such as heart palpitations, weight loss, irritability and tremors. Although treatment for toxic goiter usually begins with medications, surgical intervention may be required in cases that do not respond to drug treatment and affect the quality of life. In addition, large goiter cases can cause physical symptoms such as swelling in the neck and difficulty breathing, making daily life difficult. Such large goiters should be surgically removed so that the patient can breathe more easily and aesthetic concerns can be eliminated. As a result, when such goiters are resistant to treatment and the symptoms negatively affect the patient’s life, surgical intervention is inevitable.
How Are Age, General Health Status and Other Factors Considered for Surgery?
When deciding on goiter surgery, the patient’s age, general health status and other individual factors are very important. Age can have a significant impact on the risks of surgery. Generally, the recovery process after surgery is faster in young and healthy individuals, but the recovery process may be longer in older patients and more care may be required. In addition, other accompanying health problems (e.g. heart disease, diabetes) may make surgical intervention difficult in older individuals. The patient’s general health status is also evaluated before surgery. Many surgical interventions are directly related to how the patient’s body will respond to anesthesia and the recovery process. Existing health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and kidney function should be carefully examined before surgery. In addition, symptoms that affect the patient’s quality of life are also taken into consideration. If the goiter makes it difficult for the patient to breathe, causes difficulty swallowing or causes serious cosmetic discomfort, surgical intervention is recommended. As a result, age and health status for goiter surgery are evaluated individually for each patient and the most appropriate treatment plan is created.
How Long Is the Recovery Period After Goiter Surgery?
The recovery process after goiter surgery usually takes a few weeks, but it can vary depending on the patient’s general health, the extent of the surgery, and the type of intervention performed. After the first few days of observation in the hospital, most patients can usually return to their normal lives within a week. After surgery, patients may experience mild pain, swelling, and bruising for a few days. These symptoms usually subside within 2-3 weeks. Full recovery can take longer and is usually completed within 4-6 weeks. During this time, it is important for patients to follow the instructions given by the surgeon, avoid excessive physical activity, and attend regular follow-up appointments. In addition, excessive pressure should not be placed on the nose and neck area during the recovery process, and the medications recommended by the surgeon should be used regularly. The recovery process may be slightly longer for some patients, but the quality of life generally improves rapidly after surgery.
How Long Do Post-Operative Hoarseness, Sore Throat, and Difficulty Swallowing Last?
After goiter surgery, some patients may experience temporary symptoms such as hoarseness, sore throat and difficulty swallowing. These conditions usually occur as a direct result of the surgery. Hoarseness can be caused by temporary irritation of the nerves around the vocal cords. Such symptoms usually resolve within a few days, but in some patients it can last for several weeks. Sore throat can occur after the incisions and manipulations made during surgery, which usually subside within a few days. Difficulty swallowing can develop after surgery on the tissues around the thyroid gland, but this symptom is also usually temporary and provides relief within a few days. If these symptoms persist or become severe after surgery, it is important to contact the surgeon. In most patients, such symptoms completely disappear within a few weeks and they can continue their normal lives.
How Should Nutrition Be After Goiter Surgery?
After goiter surgery, patients should pay attention to their diet, which can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of complications. During the first few days, patients should generally prefer soft, easily swallowed foods. Due to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or sore throat, patients may prefer a liquid diet. Drinking plenty of water supports the body’s recovery and prevents dehydration. In the early stages, foods such as soup, yogurt, and pureed vegetables can be preferred. In addition, protein-rich foods should be included in the diet to meet the nutrients the body needs during the healing process. Sugary and processed foods should be avoided, and vitamins and minerals should be taken with a balanced diet. It is important for patients to eat plenty of fiber-rich foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables during the healing process after goiter surgery. As the healing process progresses, patients can switch to a more normal diet, but heavy meals and excessively fatty foods should be avoided. Following the surgeon’s recommendations for nutrition will make the healing process faster and smoother.
What Foods Should Be Consumed and Avoided After Surgery?
Nutrition after goiter surgery can directly affect the healing process. The first thing patients should pay attention to after surgery is to avoid foods that will make swallowing difficult or cause irritation in the throat. Hard, spicy, acidic or extremely hot foods should be avoided. These can increase throat pain, especially during the healing process, and make swallowing difficulty worse. In addition, excessively salty, processed and sugary foods should be avoided. Such foods can negatively affect the body’s healing process and cause swelling to increase. After surgery, it is recommended that patients have a liquid diet. Consuming soft drinks such as water, fresh fruit juices, herbal teas and liquid soups can help the healing process. In addition, low-fat protein sources (such as chicken, fish and eggs) and fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) also support healing. If swallowing difficulty and throat irritation persist, a liquid diet or pureed foods should be preferred. Following a healthy diet after surgery speeds up healing and helps the body recover faster.
How to Regulate Iodine Consumption After Goiter Surgery?
After goiter surgery, iodine consumption is important for patients to have proper thyroid function. Iodine is an element required for the production of thyroid hormones, and it is important to regulate iodine intake in goiter patients. Iodine deficiency can cause the thyroid gland to malfunction and the goiter to grow even larger. Therefore, controlling and balancing iodine intake plays a critical role in the healing process. However, excessive iodine intake can also negatively affect the thyroid, so excessive iodine intake should be avoided. After surgery, patients may need to regularly consume iodine-containing foods (e.g. seafood, iodized salt), but for some patients, it may be necessary to limit iodine intake, especially if their thyroid function is irregular. Doctors can make recommendations on how much iodine intake the patient should have by performing blood tests to check their thyroid function. Keeping iodine intake balanced after goiter surgery supports healing by ensuring the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland.
How Long Does Hoarseness Last and When Does It Resolve?
Hoarseness after goiter surgery is usually a temporary symptom and improves in most patients within a few days. Hoarseness is caused by the nerves or muscles surrounding the thyroid being affected during surgery. Some of the nerves responsible for controlling the vocal cords may be temporarily irritated during surgery, causing hoarseness. Hoarseness usually improves within 1-2 weeks. However, in some patients, this may take a little longer, especially if more tissue has been involved. The healing process can vary from person to person, but most patients see significant improvement within 2-3 weeks. This healing process can be aided by patients not overusing their vocal cords, not shouting, and speaking softly. If hoarseness persists or persists for a longer period, it may be related to the effects of the surgery and a more detailed examination may be necessary.
What Should Be Done If Hoarseness Does Not Go Away? In Which Cases Should You See a Doctor?
If hoarseness persists for a long time after goiter surgery, it is important to see a doctor. Hoarseness usually improves within a few weeks. However, if hoarseness persists and patients cannot produce sounds easily when speaking, this may indicate that the nerves that control the vocal cords have been affected for a longer period of time. Hoarseness that persists may be due to damage to the vocal cords or a prolonged healing process of the nerves. In such cases, doctors usually recommend working with a voice therapist or may perform further examinations of the vocal cords. In addition, if hoarseness is accompanied by shortness of breath, sore throat, swelling, or other serious symptoms, a doctor should be consulted immediately. The doctor will evaluate the condition of the vocal cords to determine the cause of the hoarseness and apply additional treatment methods if necessary. Prolonged hoarseness after surgery is a condition that should be monitored carefully and requires professional medical attention.
Goiter Surgery Turkey Cost 2025
Goiter surgery prices may vary in 2025, and these prices may vary depending on the surgeon’s experience, the techniques used, and the patient’s condition. In general, goiter surgeries are very special and require careful attention because the thyroid gland must be removed. Prices vary depending on the patient’s type of surgery (open surgery, laparoscopic, total or subtotal thyroidectomy) and the treatment to be applied. As of 2025, goiter surgery prices may range from approximately 8,000 TL to 20,000 TL. Prices may vary depending on the surgeon’s level of expertise, the patient’s health insurance status, and the treatment to be used during the patient’s recovery process. In addition, the length of hospital stay, laboratory tests, and other additional services may also affect the total cost. Pre- and post-operative care, medications, and other treatment processes are also among the factors that affect the price. In order to get clear information about goiter surgery prices, it is important for patients to contact their surgeons directly and create a cost plan considering their personal situations.