Thyroid surgery, or thyroidectomy, involves removing all or part of the thyroid gland. Also known as thyroidectomy, it is a common treatment for conditions that affect this gland.
For example, it can be used in the treatment of thyroid cancer, large goiters, hyperthyroidism, or nodules that may affect normal gland function. The amount of money you will want to budget to cover your thyroid surgery cost in Singapore will vary depending on several factors, the main one being the type of surgery deemed necessary for you.
There are two main types of thyroid surgery: total thyroidectomy and partial thyroidectomy. Total thyroidectomy, just as it sounds, involves a complete removal of the thyroid gland.
It is often performed for thyroid cancer or other severe thyroid conditions. For partial thyroidectomy, only a part of the thyroid is removed. It is usually recommended for benign nodules or mild hyperthyroidism.
How is Thyroid Surgery Done?
Once recommended and approved for thyroid surgery in Singapore, a fairly common question that may persistently bug you is: how is thyroid surgery done? Here’s a summary of what you can typically expect;
Thyroidectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision at the front of the neck to access the thyroid gland. As earlier explained, in total thyroidectomy, the entire gland is removed, while a partial thyroidectomy removes only the affected portion.
The incision is then closed with sutures or adhesive strips, leaving a scar that typically fades over time. Most people stay in the hospital for 1-2 days for observation and initial recovery.
This is most likely to happen if you’ve had a total thyroidectomy. Once released, you will need proper aftercare to support your healing and comfort.
Post-surgery care and recovery often involve managing pain, avoiding strain on the neck, and maintaining quality rest. Swelling and soreness are common after surgery.
So, you will want to minimize strain on the neck, which can ease discomfort. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth recovery at home:
- Pain Management: Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage pain and inflammation. Use them as directed, and avoid over-the-counter NSAIDs unless approved, as they may affect blood clotting.
- Incision Care: Keep the area clean and dry. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions for managing the incision. Please follow these instructions carefully to avoid infections.
- Activity Limitations: Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or any movements that strain the neck for at least a few weeks. Check with your doctor before resuming regular physical activities.
How to Sleep After Thyroid Surgery
Finding a comfortable position to sleep can be difficult after thyroid surgery because the neck is naturally tender, and improper positioning can increase discomfort or delay healing. This explains why so many patients frequently ask: how do you sleep after thyroid surgery? Here are some tips to optimize sleep during recovery:
- Sleep with Your Head Elevated: Elevating your head reduces swelling around the incision and helps ease discomfort. You can achieve this by sleeping on your back with an extra pillow or by using a wedge pillow to keep your head elevated at a 30-45-degree angle. This position also helps reduce strain on the neck by keeping it in a neutral position.
- Back Sleeping: Back sleeping is generally the most comfortable position after thyroid surgery. It helps keep your spine aligned to minimize pressure on your neck. Use pillows to support your shoulders and neck in a slightly elevated position, which can help with breathing and reduce any residual throat discomfort.
- Avoid Side and Stomach Sleeping: Side or stomach sleeping positions put undue pressure on the neck, which can strain the incision area and cause discomfort. If you’re used to side sleeping, consider placing a pillow under each arm to discourage rolling over during the night.
- Use Neck Support: Supportive pillows designed for neck comfort, such as memory foam pillows, can also help keep your neck aligned and reduce strain. Choose a pillow that holds your head and neck steady so you’re not tempted to turn or twist.
- Avoid High, Firm Pillows: High pillows can push the neck forward or at an awkward angle, which may increase pressure on the surgical site. Instead, select a soft, low pillow or a specifically designed post-surgery wedge pillow.
- Place Pillow under the Knees: Placing a pillow under your knees can help maintain spine alignment when sleeping on your back. This small adjustment can relieve lower back tension to help you stay comfortable during recovery.
- Stay Hydrated and Use a Humidifier: Staying hydrated can ease dry throat discomfort that sometimes follows thyroid surgery. Also, using a humidifier in your bedroom can prevent your throat from drying out, which can be soothing if breathing feels uncomfortable.
When to Contact Your Thyroid Doctor
Most people recover from thyroid surgery within a few weeks. However, each person’s recovery time varies.
While you may feel sore or experience mild swelling, signs like fever, excessive swelling, or worsening pain may indicate an issue. Contact your provider if you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing or swallowing, persistent or worsening pain not relieved by prescribed medications, redness, warmth, or discharge around the incision site, and fever above 38°C (100.4°F).
You will also want to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure that you’re healing well. During these appointments, your provider will be keen to address any concerns you may have about your recovery or hormone levels if you’ve had a total thyroidectomy.
Final Thoughts
Sleeping well after thyroid surgery can make a significant difference to your healing and minimize neck strain. The tips on this page should give you an idea of what to do to be able to achieve more comfortable and restorative sleep. In addition, for a smoother recovery process, be sure to religiously follow the aftercare guidelines provided by your surgeon.
Are you considering thyroid surgery in Singapore? Speak with a specialist today about any additional questions you have to ensure a safe and comfortable recovery experience. Get in touch with a board-certified thyroid surgeon in Singapore at;
NC Tan Surgery – Thyroid And Head & Neck Specialist Singapore
Head and neck surgeon in Singapore
1 Farrer Park Station Rd, #14-02 Connexion,
Singapore 217562
+65 9731 7973