The thyroid gland can develop a number of different diseases that cause serious symptoms, and surgical treatment is often the best solution. The Association of South Bay Surgeons, located in Torrance, California and San Pedro, CA, offers a variety of treatment options customized to the patient.
The thyroid gland is among the largest of the body's endocrine system glands. This gland is located in the bottom part of the neck, just over the trachea. The thyroid gland's main function is regulating metabolism.
The thyroid gland can have several different disorders and problems. Goiters cause major growth of the thyroid gland. They don't always cause symptoms, but can cause throat issues, if severe. Thyroid cancer is one of the fairly common types of cancerous growths, but with treatment has a very good survival rate. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the body creates too much thyroid hormone, resulting in a too-high metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a common issue that occurs when the body doesn't make enough thyroid hormone, causing a sluggish metabolism. Thyroid nodules are quite common, and most of them are benign. However, nodules may sometimes need to be biopsied if they appear malignant. They can be surgically removed if necessary. In thyroiditis, the thyroid gland is continually inflamed and may cause pain or other symptoms.
The surgery used for thyroid disease depends on the specific disease and on the anatomy of the gland. For example, if a nodule exists in just 1 lobe, the lobe itself can be removed. In cases where a large goiter compresses the trachea, a partial or total thyroidectomy removes the whole mass. In the case of thyroid gland cancer, a total (or near-total) thyroidectomy is typically the best surgical option. This surgery has the best chance of a complete removal of the cancer.
Recovery from thyroid surgery varies according to the specific operation. For most thyroid surgeries, patients expect to get back to their normal routine quite quickly. Even in a total thyroidectomy, most people resume regular routines within a week or so. However, major physical activity is usually restricted for about 2 weeks. If the entire thyroid gland was replaced, patients begin thyroid hormone replacement therapy to prevent their metabolism from slowing down too much.
"The best bedside manner I have ever encountered in a physician. He made a very scary surgery a good experience..."
"An excellent doctor and surgeon with wonderful people skills. She is extremely personable and makes you feel very comfortable..."
"I don't like surgery, but he made me feel comfortable, I really trust him. He was very patient and most Doctors don't understand how important patience is."
"Everyone in the office was very professional, and very nice to all the patients coming in."
"A very down to earth doctor. I feel that I can trust what he tells me which is also told in such a way that I can understand..."
"The office was professionally laid out displaying a relaxing atmosphere. The free coffee and actual tables to sit at is a welcome sight..."
"During a very stressful time, the Dr. was thorough and calming. I felt very confident going into surgery that I had made the right decision on the doctor..."
"Good attitude, helpful, explained diagnosis simply and thoroughly. I really did appreciate the call on a Friday evening at home to discuss my options..."
"Office staff very kind and friendly, helpful when I had insurance issues and they worked the problems out. I did not have to..."
"A wonderful doctor who is quite knowledgeable in her field of expertise. She has a great bed side manner and has a pleasant, down to earth personality."
"One of the best and most caring doctors, I've ever met. When I come to see the Dr., I know I'm in good hands, and I have complete trust in him..."
"I felt very confident about my decision to plan my surgery with this Physician. I did extensive research on my type of surgery, issues and options..."
"Dr Friedlander is such a great surgeon. She has the perfect combo of being a skilled surgeon and also being a very decent human being. She was totally present to me..."
"Good doctor, and very nice. She is a busy and in-demand surgeon, so even though I've been kept waiting a couple of times, it's been for good reason."
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"I have to say he has been great. Since the beginning of my journey he has been there to answer questions and any concerns I had."
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"I went to Dr. Ali-jones for a double mastectomy. She was very knowledgeable, professional, and her bedside manner exuded compassion and understanding..."
"Dr. Bhayani perform colon cancer surgery on my wife. I am a pastor and deal with lots of medical people. Dr. Bhayani was outstanding, competent..."
"He explained in specific detail what a liver resection procedure was. I like that he didn't sugar coat things but his caring attitude made me feel at ease..."