Everything You Need to Know
The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating your body’s metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones. Conditions affecting the thyroid may necessitate the removal of all or part of this gland to restore health and well-being.
Indications for thyroid removal include thyroid cancer, symptomatic goitres (enlarged thyroid), overactive thyroid glands not responsive to other treatments, and suspicious nodules. Our approach at St John & Elizabeth Hospital prioritises your health and peace of mind. We understand the concerns and questions that come with the need for thyroid surgery. That’s why our team of experts is committed to providing clear, empathetic guidance and care throughout your journey with us.
From your initial consultation to post-operative care, we ensure a supportive, informative process tailored to your specific condition and needs. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcomes for you, focusing on minimising complications and promoting a swift recovery. At St John & Elizabeth Hospital, you’re in the hands of specialists who genuinely care about your health and recovery.
Before Surgery
Your pathway to thyroid surgery starts with a comprehensive consultation with one of our leading endocrine surgeons. In this vital initial meeting, we’ll explore your medical history, the specifics of your thyroid condition, and determine the most fitting surgical approach for you—be it a total or partial thyroidectomy.
Preparation for your procedure includes adhering to pre-surgical instructions tailored to your unique situation. These guidelines may involve dietary adjustments, medication management, or specific instructions to prepare for anaesthesia. Rest assured, our team is committed to ensuring you are thoroughly briefed and comfortable with every aspect of your treatment plan before proceeding.
During Surgery
Thyroid removal at St John & Elizabeth Hospital is performed with the utmost care for your comfort and safety. Our modern facilities and compassionate staff ensure a smooth and reassuring experience from the moment you enter our doors.
Arrival and Preparation: Upon your arrival, our welcoming team will guide you through the necessary preparatory steps, reviewing your medical history and confirming your readiness for your surgery. You’ll then be escorted to a state-of-the-art operating room designed for optimal care.
Anaesthesia: Thyroid surgeries typically require general anaesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable and unconscious throughout the procedure. Our skilled anaesthetists will carefully administer and monitor the anaesthesia, prioritising your safety and well-being at all times.
The Surgical Procedure: The extent of the surgery—whether partial or total thyroidectomy—depends on your specific condition. Our surgeons utilise advanced techniques to precisely target and remove the necessary portion of the thyroid gland while minimising the impact on surrounding tissues.
After Surgery
Recovery and post-operative care are personalised to ensure your comfort and the best healing outcomes. Here’s what to anticipate following your thyroid removal:
Immediate Post-Surgery Care: Before leaving the hospital, you’ll be given comprehensive aftercare instructions specific to thyroid surgery recovery. This will cover wound care, signs to monitor for complications, and guidance on medications.
Recovery at Home: The recovery period can vary based on the extent of your surgery and your individual health. While many patients start feeling better within a few days, we recommend avoiding strenuous activities for a period advised by your surgeon.
Follow-Up Visits: Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your recovery and assess the need for any further treatment. These visits may include blood tests to evaluate your hormone levels and discussions about hormone replacement therapy if your entire thyroid was removed.
£4,795
The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge.
Doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee.
Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.