Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

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The thyroid and parathyroid glands play an important role in regulating metabolism and calcium levels in the body. When problems develop, they can affect energy levels, bone health, and overall well-being.

Dr. Stephenson provides comprehensive evaluation and surgical treatment for disorders of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, using modern techniques focused on safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and energy levels.

Conditions that may require evaluation or surgery include:

• Thyroid nodules (lumps in the thyroid)
• Thyroid cancer
• Goiter (enlarged thyroid)
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) in select cases

Many thyroid nodules are benign, but evaluation is important to determine whether treatment is needed.

Thyroid nodules are very common and often found incidentally on imaging.

Most nodules are not cancerous, but evaluation may include:

• Ultrasound imaging
• Fine needle aspiration (biopsy)
• Monitoring for changes over time

Surgery may be recommended if nodules are large, symptomatic, or suspicious.

Thyroid surgery (thyroidectomy) may be recommended if:

• A nodule is cancerous or suspicious for cancer
• The thyroid is causing compression symptoms (difficulty swallowing or breathing)
• There is significant enlargement (goiter)
• Hyperthyroidism cannot be controlled with other treatments

Surgery may involve removing part or all of the thyroid gland.

The parathyroid glands are four small glands located behind the thyroid. They regulate calcium levels in the blood.

Hyperparathyroidism occurs when one or more glands produce too much hormone, leading to elevated calcium levels.

Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Bone loss or fractures
• Kidney stones
• Abdominal discomfort
• Difficulty concentrating

Some patients have few symptoms but still require treatment due to long-term risks.

Surgery (parathyroidectomy) is the most effective treatment for hyperparathyroidism and may be recommended when:

• Calcium levels are elevated
• Symptoms are present
• There is risk to bone or kidney health

Removing the overactive gland typically restores normal calcium levels.

• Before surgery: Imaging and lab tests help guide treatment
• During surgery: Performed under general anesthesia; many cases are minimally invasive
• After surgery: Often same-day discharge or short stay
• Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks

• Thyroid surgery is highly effective for treating nodules and cancer
• Parathyroid surgery has very high cure rates (often over 95%) for hyperparathyroidism
• Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life

Are most thyroid nodules cancerous?
No. The majority are benign, but evaluation is important to determine risk.

Will I need lifelong medication after thyroid surgery?
If the entire thyroid is removed, thyroid hormone replacement is typically needed.

Is parathyroid surgery curative?
Yes. Most patients are cured with removal of the overactive gland.

How serious is high calcium?
Elevated calcium can affect bones, kidneys, and overall health if untreated.

Thyroid and parathyroid conditions are common—but with proper evaluation and treatment, outcomes are excellent.

Dr. Stephenson and her team provide expert, individualized care using modern surgical techniques tailored to your needs.

If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid or parathyroid condition—or have symptoms that concern you—it may be time to explore your options.

Contact our office today or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.