Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

More than 150,000 Americans undergo thyroid or parathyroid surgery each year.

These procedures provide a safe and effective way to address common endocrine system-related health problems that won’t respond to more conservative treatments. At Colorado West Otolaryngologists, PC, the team of expert physicians offers minimally invasive thyroid and parathyroid techniques. To schedule an appointment at the Grand Junction, Delta, Montrose, or Gunnison, Colorado, office, book online, or call today.

Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery Q & A

Thyroid and parathyroid surgery refer to a group of procedures that treat certain problems affecting your endocrine system.

The thyroid is a gland at the base of your neck that produces hormones responsible for regulating your metabolism. The parathyroid glands are four round nodules near your thyroid that help regulate calcium in your blood.

Thyroid and parathyroid surgery can treat various problems, including:

  • Thyroid enlargement
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hyperparathyroidism
  • Thyroid nodules
  • Goiter


Thanks to modern surgical tools and treatment techniques, it’s possible to address these and other issues using a minimally invasive approach. That allows for quicker recovery times, a lower risk of complications,  and less downtime.

At Colorado West Otolaryngologists, PC, the team offers several types of thyroid and parathyroid surgery, including:

Thyroidectomy

Thyroidectomy is a type of thyroid surgery that removes your thyroid gland and some or all of your thyroid tissue. This procedure provides a proven and safe way to treat common thyroid problems, including nodules, swelling, and inflammation.

Parathyroidectomy

Parathyroidectomy is a type of parathyroid surgery that removes one (or several) of your parathyroid glands. The procedure works to restore balance to the calcium levels throughout your body. 

Lobectomy

Lobectomy is a type of thyroid surgery that removes one of your thyroid’s two lobes. Following surgery, your thyroid continues to function, but it may produce fewer hormones. As a result, many people who undergo lobectomy have to take thyroid supplements.

Following thyroid or parathyroid surgery, you stay at least one night in the hospital. After the anesthesia wears off, it’s normal to experience a sore throat and mild discomfort. Take any medication as prescribed and make sure to attend all post-surgery follow-up appointments. You can return to routine activities within two to four weeks.

To determine if thyroid or parathyroid surgery is right for you, your doctor at Colorado West Otolaryngologists, PC, conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle. They then order laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging to assess the function of your thyroid and parathyroid glands.

Whenever possible, they recommend conservative treatments like healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medication. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Book Your Appointment Today

To learn more about thyroid and parathyroid surgery, request a consultation at Colorado West Otolaryngologists, PC. Book an appointment online, or call the nearest office today.

Appointment Request