Thyroid Assessment and Surgery
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck that plays a key role in controlling your metabolism, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. While many thyroid problems are managed with medication, some patients develop lumps (nodules), goitres, or overactivity that may require surgical treatment.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, our consultants specialise in the assessment and surgical management of thyroid disorders, providing expert, tailored care.
Why Thyroid Problems Happen
Thyroid disorders are common and can affect people of all ages. Some of the most frequent conditions include:
Thyroid nodules – lumps in the thyroid, often benign but occasionally cancerous.
Goitre – enlargement of the thyroid, which can cause neck swelling or pressure symptoms.
Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) – sometimes caused by nodules producing excess hormone.
Thyroid cancer – uncommon, but important to diagnose early.
Thyroid Assessment
We provide a comprehensive, fast-track assessment pathway, including:
Neck ultrasound to assess thyroid nodules or enlargement.
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) to check whether a nodule is benign or requires further treatment.
Blood tests to measure thyroid function.
CT or MRI scans if the goitre extends into the chest or is causing compression.
Our multidisciplinary team—including radiologists, pathologists, endocrinologists, and surgeons—works together to provide a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.
Thyroid Surgery
Thyroid surgery may be recommended if:
A nodule is suspicious or proven to be cancer.
The thyroid is enlarged and causing difficulty swallowing, pressure, or breathing issues.
Overactive thyroid disease cannot be managed with other treatments.
Types of Surgery Include:
Hemithyroidectomy – removal of one lobe of the thyroid.
Total thyroidectomy – removal of the entire gland, usually followed by lifelong thyroid hormone replacement tablets.
All operations are performed with great care to protect important surrounding structures, including the parathyroid glands (which control calcium) and the recurrent laryngeal nerves (which move the vocal cords).
Why Choose Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Expert thyroid surgeons with extensive experience.
Fast-access investigations including ultrasound and FNA.
Multidisciplinary support from endocrinology and oncology colleagues.
Personalised care – from diagnosis to surgery and long-term follow-up.
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid problem or have noticed a neck swelling, expert assessment and treatment is available.
📞 Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today to book a consultation and discuss your thyroid care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Thyroid Problems and Thyroid Surgery
What does the thyroid gland do?
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, body temperature, and weight. When it is underactive, overactive, or structurally abnormal, a wide range of symptoms can occur.
What are the most common thyroid problems?
Common thyroid conditions include:
Thyroid nodules (lumps within the gland)
Goitre (enlargement of the thyroid)
Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
Thyroid cancer (uncommon but important to diagnose early)
Are most thyroid nodules cancerous?
No. Around 90–95% of thyroid nodules are benign. However, all nodules should be assessed properly to identify the small proportion that may require surgery or close monitoring.
How are thyroid nodules investigated?
Assessment usually includes:
Neck ultrasound to assess size and risk features
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy to analyse cells
Blood tests to check thyroid hormone levels
CT or MRI scans in selected cases (for large or retrosternal goitres)
This structured approach allows accurate diagnosis and avoids unnecessary surgery.
When is thyroid surgery recommended?
Surgery may be advised if:
A nodule is suspicious or confirmed cancer
A goitre is causing pressure, swallowing difficulty, or breathing problems
Hyperthyroidism cannot be controlled with medication or radioiodine
There is uncertainty after biopsy and ongoing concern
What types of thyroid surgery are performed?
The main operations are:
Hemithyroidectomy – removal of one side of the thyroid
Total thyroidectomy – removal of the entire gland
The choice depends on the diagnosis, size of disease, and overall thyroid function.
Will I need to take tablets after thyroid surgery?
After total thyroidectomy, lifelong thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) is required.
After hemithyroidectomy, many patients maintain normal thyroid function and do not need tablets, but this is monitored with blood tests.
Is thyroid surgery safe?
Yes. Thyroid surgery is a well-established procedure with high success rates when performed by experienced surgeons. Key risks (which are uncommon) include voice changes and calcium imbalance. Care is taken to protect:
The recurrent laryngeal nerves (voice nerves)
The parathyroid glands (calcium control)
Will thyroid surgery affect my voice?
Temporary voice hoarseness can occur due to swelling or irritation. Permanent voice change is rare, particularly when surgery is performed by specialist thyroid surgeons. Most voice changes settle within days to weeks.
How long is recovery after thyroid surgery?
Most patients go home the same day or after one night
Normal daily activities usually resume within 1–2 weeks
The neck scar typically heals to a fine line and fades over time
Do you work with other specialists?
Yes. Thyroid care is delivered through a multidisciplinary team, working closely with endocrinologists, radiologists, pathologists, and oncology teams when required.
Why choose Hampshire ENT Clinics for thyroid care?
Patients choose our service because we offer:
Consultant-led thyroid and parathyroid surgery
Rapid-access ultrasound and FNA biopsy
Multidisciplinary expertise
Personalised care from diagnosis through long-term follow-up
Local clinics across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region
When should I seek specialist assessment?
You should arrange an ENT review if you notice:
A new or enlarging lump in the neck
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Voice changes
Symptoms of overactive or underactive thyroid
👉 If you have concerns about your thyroid or have been advised to consider surgery, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics to arrange an expert consultation and discuss your options.