If you are considering parathyroid surgery, you likely have many questions – including what to expect after the procedure: “How will my body change after my parathyroid glands are removed?What does recovery from a parathyroidectomy look like?”
The good news is that a parathyroidectomy is a safe procedure and has positive outcomes. But it’s important to know what to expect immediately following parathyroid gland removal surgery and how it will affect your body.
What is a parathyroidectomy?
A parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one or more of your four parathyroid glands, located in your neck behind your thyroid gland. These small glands play an important role in regulating your calcium levels. If one or more glands become overactive—causing your calcium levels to rise too high (a condition called hypercalcemia)—or if a tumor is present, your doctor may recommend a parathyroidectomy.
What are the Long-Term Effects on the Body from Parathyroid Surgery?
If you are considering parathyroidectomy because your body is producing too much calcium,removing some of your parathyroid glands is generally successful in returning your levels back to normal. Within a few days or weeks, your remaining glands will start to function normally,and your symptoms may go away completely or greatly improve.
In the meantime, you may experience symptoms of low calcium, also known as hypocalcemia.
Common Symptoms of Low Calcium After Parathyroidectomy:
- Tingling in your hands, feet or around your mouth
- Muscle soreness or spasms
- Cramping
Your doctor may order lab work to confirm your calcium levels. While your remaining parathyroid glands work to reach normal calcium levels, your physician may recommend taking a calcium supplement.
What will recovery from a Parathyroidectomy look like?
Parathyroid surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can usually go home from the hospital the same day. Most people can return to light activity and work within a few days.
Here is what you can expect:
- Eating & drinking: You can plan to eat and drink as normal after the surgery unless instructed otherwise by your care team.
- Activity: You’ll want to avoid strenuous activity as you recover, but for the most part, you can return to normal activities and to work.
- Incision care: Follow your care team’s instructions on how to tend to your incision, which will be approximately one to two inches long.
- Scar protection: Once the incision heals, use sunscreen on your neck to protect your scar when outside.
Choosing the Right Care Team
Finding out that you need surgery can be news. Finding the right surgeon and care team can help you decide the best treatment plan for you and put your mind at ease. If you or a loved one needs parathyroid surgery, the surgical team at NGPG General Surgery is here to help and answer any questions you may have. Call 770-219-9200 to schedule an appointment or learn more about parathyroid removal surgery.