Surgery of Goiter

[Louiseon]

Hi,

My husband has an enlarged goiter for the past 6 years, only this year he went to see about it after all my pestering! The goiter is not cancerous! The goiter has been drained 3 times, the fluid which comes out every time is like cloudy brown! The last time he went to the doctor's they didn't drain it, and told him the best decision was surgery which freaked him out! Has been told that there will be an 8cm insertion made across his neck to remove it! I have read that once this operation has taken place his voice will become more squeaky and will have to take hormone replacement tablets for the rest of his life! Is this true and what else do I need to know!

[goiterwatch]

Louiseon, I have had half of my thyroid removed and have a faint scar at the base of my neck that follows the curve of my neck. My voice hasn't changed, however, there is a small area at the incision that is numb.  I was told that could be the result of surgery before the procedure.  The numbness is only felt when I touch the area with my fingers, otherwise, it is not noticeable.  I understand that after an entire thyroid is removed a person needs to take Synthroid or something similar to replace the substance produced by the thyroid.  Most individuals that I know have no side effects with taking the medication.  I would certainly seek professional advice, and perhaps a second opinion before making a decision to have a body part removed.  Best wishes to you and your husband.  

[Totie]

I had a goiter removed, my neck looked like a football lineman (I am 5'2 female). I was 24yrs old at the time.

I had the surgery almost 15yrs ago. My voice did NOT change, my scar is not noticeable at all. I have been on the thyroid medications since. I am doing well concerning the thyroid issues.

But, make sure you ask all the questions that will put you at ease. Leave NOTHING, not asked....Also make sure you have a good surgeon.

Good luck to your husband...