Why Would Someone Need Thyroid Surgery?

Millions of people develop thyroid diseases each year, of whom some require thyroid surgery for treatment. In fact, the prevalence of thyroid disease and cancer is increasing and so is the need for thyroid surgery. It’s vital that your thyroid surgery is handled by an experienced surgeon and care team.

If you require treatment or thyroid surgery in Long Beach, CA, make an appointment at the Tan Head and Neck Center. Drs. Jesse Tan and Jesus Tan are experienced and board-certified surgeons, while Dr. Rose Eapen specializes in pediatric otolaryngology disorders.

What Does Thyroid Surgery Entail?

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ in your neck. It consists of two lobes that are joined by the isthmus. Your thyroid makes hormones that regulate important functions in your body, such as metabolism.

Thyroid surgery, which is referred to as thyroidectomy, entails the removal of a part or all of the thyroid gland. Your surgeon may reach your thyroid through an incision in your neck or through your mouth. If the whole gland is removed, you’ll need to take replacement thyroid hormones to ensure that your body functions properly.

Why Would You Need Thyroid Surgery?

Thyroid surgery is typically required for the following conditions:

• Thyroid cancer: When cancerous thyroid nodules are present, the lobe containing the nodules is removed. If you have a large cancerous tumor, you will likely undergo a total thyroidectomy. Symptoms of thyroid cancer can include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, coughing, and weight loss.
• Goiters: A goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland. The causes of goiters include a lack of iodine, smoking, and certain medications. You may notice a lump in the front of your neck if you have a goiter. Dealing with goiters often requires surgery.
• Autoimmune thyroid disease: Hashimoto’s Disease and Graves’ Disease cause an underactive and overactive thyroid respectively. They are both autoimmune diseases that cause the immune system to attack the thyroid gland or thyroid hormone receptors. If medication proves ineffective, patients may need to undergo thyroid surgery, especially in the case of an overactive thyroid.

Why Opt for the Tan Head and Neck Center?

Drs. Jesse Tan, Jesus Tan, and Rose Eapen at the Tan Head and Neck Center are experienced ear, nose, and throat specialists who can provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and effective treatment for thyroid disorders. Depending on your condition, treatment could involve thyroid hormone replacement therapy, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery.

In the event that you require thyroid treatment or thyroid surgery in the Long Beach, CA, area, call (562) 988-8818 for a consultation with one of the specialists at Tan Head and Neck Center.