Hemi-thyroidectomy in Fayetteville is a surgical procedure that removes one lobe of the thyroid and is commonly used to treat thyroid nodules, goiter, or suspected cancer confined to one side. Dr. David Grant, our fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon, delivers expert care with personalized treatment and comprehensive support at Grant Thyroid Surgery.
What is a Hemi-Thyroidectomy?
Hemi-thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure that removes one lobe of the thyroid and is commonly used to treat thyroid nodules, goiter, or suspected cancer confined to one side. Dr. David Grant, our fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon, delivers expert care with personalized treatment and comprehensive support at Grant Thyroid Surgery.
Potential Reasons to Consider a Hemi-Thyroidectomy:
- Presence of a suspicious or indeterminate thyroid nodule in one lobe
- Diagnosis of a benign nodule causing compressive symptoms
- Unilateral goiter leading to difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Thyroid cyst that recurs despite aspiration
- Possible thyroid cancer limited to one side of the gland
- Diagnostic uncertainty that requires tissue removal for accurate pathology
- Overactive thyroid nodule (toxic adenoma) confined to one lobe
If you’ve been diagnosed with a unilateral thyroid condition, hemi-thyroidectomy in Fayetteville may be the best surgical approach.
Benefits of a Hemi-Thyroidectomy:
- Preserves natural thyroid hormone production in many cases
- Reduces the need for lifelong thyroid medication
- Involves a smaller incision and quicker recovery
- Carries a lower risk of surgical complications
- Allows for definitive diagnosis through tissue analysis
- Minimizes disruption to surrounding neck structures
- Offers targeted treatment for nodules or tumors in one lobe
How is Hemi-Thyroidectomy Done?
During a hemi-thyroidectomy, you’ll be placed under general anesthesia. Dr. Grant makes a small incision in the front of your neck to access the thyroid gland. Using meticulous surgical techniques, he carefully removes one lobe of the thyroid while preserving vital structures such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands. Once the affected lobe is removed, the incision is closed with fine sutures to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring.
Recovery After a Hemi-Thyroidectomy
Most patients return home the same day or after one night in the hospital following a hemi-thyroidectomy in Fayetteville. You may experience mild soreness or tightness in your neck, which improves within a few days. Dr. Grant will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and monitor your thyroid hormone levels. Many individuals resume normal activities within a week, and scarring is typically minimal.
Hemi-Thyroidectomy FAQs
Will I Need Thyroid Medication After a Hemi-Thyroidectomy?
In many cases, you will not need lifelong thyroid hormone replacement after a hemi-thyroidectomy. The remaining lobe of your thyroid often produces enough hormones to meet your body’s needs. However, Dr. Grant will monitor your thyroid function through blood tests postoperatively. If your hormone levels are low, thyroid medication may be prescribed.
How Long Will I Need to Stay in the Hospital?
Most patients go home the same day or after a brief overnight stay. Dr. Grant performs this procedure with minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to reduce recovery time.
Will I Have a Visible Scar?
Yes, a small incision is made at the base of your neck, but Dr. Grant takes special care to place it along natural skin creases to minimize visibility. Over time, the scar fades significantly.
Can I Talk Normally After Surgery?
Most patients are able to speak normally soon after surgery. Some may experience temporary hoarseness or voice fatigue, but these symptoms typically improve as the healing progresses. Dr. Grant takes great care to preserve the nerve that controls your vocal cords.
Schedule Your Consultation
With Dr. Grant
Dr. David Grant is a board-certified otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained expert in head and neck surgical oncology. With extensive experience in thyroid and parathyroid procedures, he offers world-class surgical care in a refined setting. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, every aspect of your treatment is coordinated with precision—from diagnosis to recovery. If you’re considering hemi-thyroidectomy in Fayetteville, schedule your consultation with Dr. Grant today.
