What is a thyroidectomy?
Thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland to treat an enlarging thyroid (also called Goiter) due to hyperthyroidism, a thyroid nodule, or thyroid cancer. In Manila, the procedure is performed by an ENT–head and neck surgeon under general anesthesia, typically takes about 3–4 hours, and usually requires 5–7 days in the hospital.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism. Goiter is the term used to refer to an enlarged thyroid, which may be diffuse, or contain one or more nodules. Thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of part of the gland (one lobe) or the whole gland, depending on the diagnosis.
Medically reviewed by Jennifer Almelor-Alzaga, MD, board-certified Otolaryngologist (PSO-HNS), fellowship-trained in Head & Neck Oncologic Surgery. Last reviewed: October 3, 2026.
Signs you may need goiter or thyroid surgery
Thyroid surgery is usually considered when one or more of the following is present:
- ✓A thyroid nodule that keeps growing/increasing in size
- ✓Presence of compressive symptoms — difficulty swallowing, a choking sensation (aspiration), pressure in the neck, difficulty breathing, voice changes (hoarseness), or a goiter extending into the chest
- ✓A thyroid nodule that is suspicious or confirmed cancerous on biopsy (FNAB)
- ✓Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) not controlled with medication
What to expect
At a Glance
- Anesthesia
- General
- Procedure time
- 3–4 hours
- Hospital stay
- 5–7 days
- Back to work
- About 4 weeks
- Where
- Philippine General HospitalManila Doctors HospitalMakati Medical Center
Risks & What to Discuss with Your Surgeon
Thyroid surgery is generally safe in experienced hands, but like any operation, it carries some risk and possible complications. The two specific to the thyroid are temporary or, rarely, lasting changes in the voice (hoarseness) and a temporary drop in calcium (hypocalcemia). Bleeding and infection are uncommon. The risk of these complications is lower when surgery is done by a surgeon who operates on the head and neck regularly. Your surgeon will discuss your individual risks before the procedure.
Why choose Dr. Alzaga for thyroid surgery
Dr. Jennifer Almelor-Alzaga has a double fellowship training in two international institutions. Her training in head and neck oncologic surgery includes the surgical management of thyroid nodules and other head & neck tumors. For tumors that require it, she is also trained in microvascular reconstructive surgery, a rare combination in the Philippines that allows complex cases to be managed by one surgeon.
Jennifer Almelor-Alzaga, MD, FPSOHNS
Board-certified Otolaryngologist–Head & Neck Surgeon. Fellowship-trained in Head & Neck Oncologic Surgery (Taiwan) and Microvascular Reconstruction (Thailand).
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This page is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or a treatment plan. Individual cases vary — always consult a qualified medical professional for advice specific to your situation. Dr. Jennifer Almelor-Alzaga, MD is available for consultations at Makati Medical Center and Olistico Health Manila.