Thyroid

Thyroid surgery with care

Your thyroid plays a vital role in your body's metabolism and energy. When surgery becomes necessary, Dr Trinh brings minimally invasive techniques and careful attention to cosmetic outcomes, so you receive expert care with the smallest possible impact.

Understanding

The thyroid gland explained

Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that produces hormones controlling your metabolism, energy, and growth. When it develops nodules or other conditions, you may experience swelling, difficulty swallowing, or changes in hormone levels.

Regulates metabolism and energy
Produces hormones that control how your body uses energy.
Can develop nodules or enlargement
Thyroid nodules are common findings on ultrasound. Most are benign.
Affects swallowing and breathing
An enlarged thyroid can press on your windpipe or oesophagus.
Linked to hormone imbalances
Conditions like Graves disease cause the thyroid to produce excess hormones.

Conditions

When thyroid surgery becomes necessary

Most thyroid nodules are benign and need only monitoring. Dr Trinh assesses each case to determine if surgery is the right path forward for your needs.

  • Thyroid nodules

    Large or rapidly growing nodules, or those with suspicious features on biopsy, may require removal.

  • Multinodular goitre

    Multiple nodules causing enlargement, discomfort, or breathing and swallowing difficulty.

  • Thyroid cancer

    Diagnosis confirmed by biopsy. Surgery removes cancerous tissue and may include lymph node dissection.

  • Graves disease

    Autoimmune condition causing overactive thyroid. Surgery is one treatment option when medication is unsuitable.

Options

Surgical approaches tailored to your needs

Dr Trinh offers surgical options matched to your specific condition and goals, using minimally invasive techniques wherever appropriate.

  • Hemithyroidectomy

    Removal of one half of the thyroid gland. Used for nodules confined to one side. Most patients do not require thyroid hormone replacement after this procedure.

  • Total thyroidectomy

    Complete removal of the thyroid gland. Required for thyroid cancer, Graves disease, or large goitres affecting both sides. You will need lifelong thyroid hormone replacement.

  • Neck dissection

    Removal of lymph nodes in selected cases of thyroid cancer. May include central neck dissection (around the thyroid) or lateral neck dissection (side of the neck).

Minimally invasive techniques for optimal results

Dr Trinh uses the smallest incision necessary for your procedure, placed carefully in a natural neck crease for the best cosmetic outcome. Scars are often barely visible once healed, particularly after the first six months.

For patients prone to thickened (keloid) scarring, Dr Trinh discusses expectations and scar management options before surgery.

Safety

Understanding surgical risks honestly

Like any surgery, thyroid procedures carry some risks. Dr Trinh believes in transparent communication so you can make an informed decision.

Voice changes
Temporary or, rarely, permanent changes to voice from recurrent laryngeal nerve proximity. Reported in fewer than 2% of cases.
Hypocalcaemia
Low calcium levels if parathyroid glands are affected. Usually temporary, occasionally requires ongoing management.
Bleeding
Wound complications are rare with careful surgical technique. Dr Trinh monitors closely in the post-operative period.

Journey

What to expect before, during, and after

Understanding your surgical journey helps reduce anxiety. Dr Trinh guides you through each stage with clear information and dedicated support.

Before surgery
Consultation, imaging review, and discussion of your options. Dr Trinh explains the procedure, incision placement, and expected recovery.
During surgery
Performed under general anaesthetic, using minimally invasive techniques where possible. Most procedures take one to three hours.
After surgery
Most patients stay one to two nights in hospital. Dr Trinh monitors your recovery and arranges follow-up appointments to check healing and discuss any further care needed.

Begin your thyroid health journey

Questions or concerns about your thyroid? Dr Trinh is here to provide answers and expert surgical care.