What Are The Thyroid Surgery Options That Leave No Scars?

Posted on Sat, 27 Jan 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 27 Jan 2018 Answered on

Thu, 2 Aug 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : Are there minimally invasive thyroid surgery procedures that leave no neck scar? If so, what are they, and will you describe how they are done?

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
thyroid removal, surgical techniques ;

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for asking!
During the last years there are some types of surgical techniques tried to avoid the thyroid scar.
Thyroid can be removed from axilla ( without cervical scar) , or can be removed by sublingual route.
These procedures are difficult, with more risks for side effects and are applied in a very few hospitals.
I would recommend the common procedure, prefering tge scar rather than higher risks for complications.
Hope the information will be helpful.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Mirjeta Guni (1 hour later)

What are the additional risks and side effects, and are those surgeries more difficult to perform? Are there many performed and where would one look for an experienced surgeon for any type of surgery? For the traditional method, how large is the incision in the neck, and will it be visible after healed?

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (19 hours later)

Brief Answer:
about thyroid surgery;

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back!
Yes, these procedures (transaxillary and transorally) are more difficult than the traditional one to be performed. There are a few centers applying them and you may ask your physician about the nearest one in your area.
Of course the incision will be always visible with the traditional surgery. It is about a 3 cm incision.
Best wishes,
Dr.Mirjeta

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad