Experiences of thyroid lobectomy?

[LisaSimpsonsbff]

Was told today that my fine needle biopsy was inconclusive, so they need to remove half my thyroid to see if it's cancer. Feeling pretty calm about the whole thing - odds it will be cancer fairly low and I know it's a very, very treatable cancer if so - but wanted to ask for experiences from other people who have had this operation? I know it's quite common. I'm worried about recovery times: the doctor was a bit vague about this, and I have a seven month old and work full time. Thanks!

My ds was almost 2 when I had this. I was fine within a couple of days tho had staples (rather than stitches) which were in place for a week which I found really uncomfortable - as if there was constantly something tight across my neck. But it really wasn’t so bad at all. I think your biggest issue will be stopping a 7 month old from grabbing at your staples/ stitches. A light scarf might do the trick? IIRC I was back to work a week later.

In my case it was thyroid cancer and I had to have the op repeated to remove the other half but again it was all really fine. As you say, the chances of it being that are really low and even if it is, it’s so treatable. I didn’t need any further treatment and 7 years later am well and healthy.

Good luck - hope it goes well for you and do feel free to ask if you have any questions.

Thanks so much - this is all really helpful and reassuring. They said I'd have a single stitch; hadn't thought about DS trying to grab it but since his favourite thing to do at the moment is to grab my lips it's a very good point!

Can you remember when you were ok to drive, please?

I had this 6 years ago, I had a lump on my throat had it removed and it wasn't cancerous. My scar is not visible. It does hurt to eat anything . I hope it all goes well.

Also I was in hospital for 3 days but that was mainly due to having my gall bladder out too. I had a 6 month old at the time, I just had to be careful that she didn't kick me in the throat whilst changing her nappy . I had dissolvable stitches and didn't have any pain afterwards.