Thyroid Surgery

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Thyroid surgery is a procedure to remove part or all of the thyroid gland to treat thyroid disorders and cancer.

Overview

Thyroid surgery, or thyroidectomy, is performed to remove part or all of the thyroid gland, which plays a crucial role in hormone regulation and metabolism. This procedure is commonly used to treat thyroid cancer, large goiters, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), or suspicious nodules that may be cancerous or cause breathing/swallowing difficulties.

Depending on the condition, the surgery may involve a partial thyroidectomy (removing only the affected part) or a total thyroidectomy (removing the entire gland). In some cases, nearby lymph nodes are also removed to prevent the spread of thyroid cancer.



When is Surgery Recommended?



Thyroid surgery is recommended for individuals with thyroid cancer, large goiters, or nodules that are suspicious or growing. It is also necessary when hyperthyroidism cannot be controlled with medication or radioactive iodine therapy.

This procedure is often chosen by patients experiencing difficulty swallowing, breathing issues, or cosmetic concerns due to an enlarged thyroid. In cases of thyroid cancer, surgery is the primary treatment to remove the tumor and prevent further spread.


Procedure Details


Thyroid surgery involves removing part or all of the thyroid gland while preserving nearby structures such as the vocal cords and parathyroid glands to prevent complications.



Anesthesia is administered for patient comfort.

A small incision is made in the lower front of the neck.

The affected portion of the thyroid gland is carefully removed (partial or total thyroidectomy).

Nearby lymph nodes may be removed if cancer is present.

The incision is closed, and post-operative monitoring begins.



Recovery



Recovery from thyroid surgery is usually quick, with most patients returning to daily activities within a week or two. Mild swelling, throat discomfort, and temporary voice changes may occur but typically improve within weeks.

We provide personalized aftercare, including pain management, voice monitoring, and follow-up tests to ensure proper healing. If a total thyroidectomy is performed, patients will require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy to maintain normal hormone levels. Regular blood tests help adjust medication dosage as needed.


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Op. Dr. Güngör Gül, bariatric surgeon in Istanbul

Frequently Asked Questions

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What types of surgeries does Dr. Gül specialize in?

Dr. Gül specializes in bariatric surgery, cancer surgery, hernia repair, reflux surgery, endocrine surgery, and advanced endoscopy procedures

Why choose Türkiye for surgical procedures?

Türkiye offers affordable, high-quality care with skilled surgeons, advanced facilities, seamless medical tourism packages, and the opportunity to explore its rich culture.

What is the recovery time for most surgeries?

Recovery times vary by procedure but typically range from 1-4 weeks for minimally invasive surgeries like bariatric or hernia repair.

What bariatric procedures are offered at the clinic?

We offer sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, and Mini Gastric Bypass surgeries tailored to your specific health needs and goals.

How much weight can I expect to lose after bariatric surgery?

Most patients lose 60-80% of their excess weight within 12-18 months, depending on the procedure and lifestyle changes.

What languages does Dr. Gül and his team speak?

Dr. Gül and his team are fluent in English, Spanish, and Turkish to ensure clear communication with all patients.

Will I need to take supplements after bariatric surgery?

Yes, supplements are usually required to maintain proper nutrition after surgery. A personalized plan will be provided for you.

Does insurance cover these procedures?

Coverage depends on your insurance provider and the type of procedure. Contact us for assistance with insurance-related questions.

Can I combine treatment with travel in Turkey?

Yes! Many patients combine their treatment with a relaxing stay in Istanbul or nearby destinations. We can assist with planning.

What support is available after surgery?

We provide ongoing support through follow-up appointments, nutritional guidance, and access to our team for any questions or concerns.

Am I a suitable candidate for bariatric surgery?

Suitability is decided after a medical evaluation. Surgery is generally considered for a BMI of 40 or above, or 35–39.9 alongside weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. For lower BMIs, non-surgical options may be more appropriate.

How long do I need to stay in Türkiye?

It depends on the procedure. For most bariatric surgeries a stay of around 5–7 days is typical, allowing time for the operation, initial recovery and post-operative checks before you fly home.

What pre-operative tests are required?

Before surgery you will have blood tests, imaging and an anaesthesia assessment, along with any consultations needed to confirm you are ready for the procedure.

What is the difference between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass?

A sleeve gastrectomy reduces the size of the stomach, while a gastric bypass both reduces the stomach and reroutes part of the digestive tract. The most suitable option is determined during consultation based on your health profile.

What can I eat after surgery?

You follow a staged plan that begins with liquids, then moves to pureed and soft foods before returning to regular meals, all guided by a dietitian with a plan tailored to you.

When can I return to work and exercise?

Most patients return to daily activities within 1–4 weeks, with a gradual return to exercise once approved by your surgeon. Recovery time varies by procedure and individual.

Are there non-surgical weight-loss options?

Yes. Non-surgical methods such as the gastric balloon and gastric (stomach) botox are available for suitable patients; eligibility is determined during a medical evaluation.

Is the anaesthesia safe and how is it managed?

Procedures are carried out in a fully equipped medical setting with a specialist anaesthesia team following standard safety protocols. Your fitness for anaesthesia is assessed beforehand.

Can bariatric surgery help with obesity-related conditions?

Many patients see improvement in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and reflux. Outcomes vary from person to person and require ongoing medical follow-up.

What follow-up care do I get after returning home?

We provide ongoing support after you return home, including remote follow-up, nutritional guidance and access to our team, together with the recommended vitamin and mineral supplementation.
If you have any further questions, please reach out to our friendly support team.
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Our Expertise

Discover a healthier, happier you with our personalized weight-loss solutions designed for lasting transformation.
Illustration of sleeve gastrectomy showing the reduced sleeve-shaped stomach
Weight Loss Surgery

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Minimally invasive surgery for long-term weight loss with a simple procedure and no rerouting.

Illustration of mini gastric bypass surgery showing the rerouted digestive tract
Weight Loss Surgery

Mini Gastric Bypass

Simpler, less invasive gastric bypass for significant weight loss and diabetes control.

Illustration of a gastric balloon placed inside the stomach for weight loss
Weight Loss Surgery

Gastric Balloon

A non-surgical, temporary option for moderate weight loss without permanent stomach changes.

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This clinic is fully approved and accredited by the Türkiye Ministry of Health.