Parathyroid Surgery Recovery – What to Expect After Your Operation
Parathyroid surgery is a highly effective treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism, a condition that can cause fatigue, kidney stones, bone thinning, “brain fog,” abdominal discomfort, and raised calcium levels.
Most patients feel significantly better within days to weeks after their operation.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics at Medicana Winchester, we perform modern, minimally invasive parathyroid surgery with fast recovery times, including intraoperative PTH monitoring to confirm cure during the operation.
This guide explains what to expect before going home, during the first few days, and throughout your long-term recovery.
🏥 Right After Surgery
Parathyroid surgery is usually a day-case procedure, meaning most patients go home the same day.
Immediately after surgery, you can expect:
Mild sore throat
A small neck incision with steri-strips or glue
Possible hoarse voice (usually temporary)
Feeling tired or “washed out” for 24–48 hours
A brief calcium dip (normal and monitored)
Your surgeon will check your calcium levels and discharge you once you are comfortable, hydrated and safe to go home.
📆 Recovery Timeline
Day 1–3
Mild neck discomfort
Tightness or pulling sensation when swallowing
Sore throat
Tiredness
Pain controlled with paracetamol ± ibuprofen
You can walk, climb stairs, eat and shower normally
Day 3–7
Bruising and swelling may peak around days 2–3
Neck movement becomes easier
Energy levels begin improving
Many patients notice early improvement in concentration and fatigue
Week 1–2
Return to work (depending on job)
Light activity is fine
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise
Voice usually returns to normal
Pain significantly reduced
After 2–4 Weeks
Most patients feel back to normal and are fully healed.
Your calcium should stabilise, and most symptoms related to hyperparathyroidism continue to improve.
🧪 Calcium Levels After Surgery
Because the overactive parathyroid gland is removed, your calcium level may dip temporarily.
Symptoms of low calcium include:
Tingling in lips or fingertips
Cramping in hands or feet
Twitching muscles
If this happens, you may be advised to take:
Calcium supplements
Vitamin D (if required)
This is usually temporary and resolves as the remaining glands “wake up.”
🧵 Wound Care
Most patients have dissolvable stitches
You can shower normally
Avoid soaking the wound (baths, swimming) for 10–14 days
Keep the scar moisturised after 1–2 weeks
Use high-factor sunscreen for 6–12 months to prevent darkening of the scar
Gentle scar massage helps flatten and soften the area
Your final scar typically fades to a thin, minimal line.
🗣️ Voice Changes
Temporary hoarseness or weakness can occur due to:
Tube irritation from anaesthetic
Local swelling
Very rarely, nerve bruising
Most settle within days to a few weeks.
If persistent, your surgeon may recommend a voice assessment.
💪 Benefits Patients Often Notice After Surgery
Many people with hyperparathyroidism notice improvements such as:
More energy
Clearer thinking
Improved mood
Fewer headaches
Better sleep
Reduced stomach symptoms
Stabilisation of bone loss
Fewer kidney stone episodes
These gains can appear within days to weeks, but bone and kidney benefits continue to improve over months.
🌟 Why Choose Hampshire ENT Clinics & Medicana Winchester
Consultant-led endocrine surgery, Mr Matt Ward - National Expert
Modern minimally invasive techniques
Intraoperative PTH monitoring for high cure rates
Day-case surgery with rapid recovery
Clinics across Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, Salisbury
Personalised care from diagnosis to long-term follow-up
👉 If you are preparing for parathyroid surgery or want expert advice on recovery, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics or Medicana Winchester for tailored support.