Care after thyroidectomy is easy and can be done at home without any need for specialised training or equipment.
Below are a few important tips to keep in mind after undergoing thyroid surgery:
1. Care of the Wound / Suture Line
The wound or suture line is the area where the surgical incision has been made. Sutures may be in the form of staples, visible external sutures, or invisible/internal sutures. It is important to keep this area clean to prevent infection and delayed healing.
Gently cleanse the area daily with mild soap and water. Avoid vigorous scrubbing.
Pat the area dry using a clean towel or tissue.
Clean the surface again using a chlorhexidine + alcohol solution.
Apply the prescribed ointment (Neosporin, Mupirocin, etc.) and leave the area open.
The wound can be kept open 2–3 days after surgery, as advised.
2. Drain Care
A small pipe (drain) may be placed in the neck to remove excess fluids and promote healing. No extra precautions are required. Bathing can be resumed once the drain is removed.
Steps for Drain Care
Apply the clamp (in most cases, it is already attached to the drain pipe).
Empty the drain daily and measure the amount of fluid collected.
Record the amount in a chart for the surgeon to review during the follow-up visit.
To reattach the drain, press the bellows and remove some air to create a vacuum in the drain bottle, as per the surgeon’s instructions.
Open the clamp to restart the drain flow into the bottle.
Keep the drain bottle below chest level to allow gravity-assisted drainage.
Clean the skin around the drain with a chlorhexidine + alcohol solution and cover it with a gauze dressing.
Generally, thyroid drains are removed once the collection is less than 15 ml per day. Depending on the size of the tumour removed, this may take 3–5 days.
3. Activity
You may resume most daily activities soon after surgery.
Light activities such as walking and routine household chores are encouraged, as they aid recovery.
Start with light activities and gradually increase activity levels.
Avoid lifting heavy weights (more than 4–5 kilograms).
Avoid vigorous movements of the neck.
Discuss when you can fully resume exercise or fitness routines during your follow-up visit.
4. Diet
Diet is usually started with liquids such as juice or soup during the first 24 hours.
Gradually introduce soft solids such as porridge, khichdi, mashed vegetables, and custards.
You may return to your regular diet as tolerated.
Ensure adequate hydration by consuming 10–12 glasses (2–3 litres) of water daily.
Iodine-Restricted Diet (for Thyroid Cancer Patients)
For patients with thyroid cancer, an iodine-restricted diet may be advised based on individual needs. This includes avoiding:
Iodised salt
Fish and seafood
Ultra-processed foods
Pickles
Un-iodised salt is available at grocery stores and may be used during this period. Always check food labels carefully before consumption.
5. Thyroid Hormone Supplementation
You may be prescribed thyroid hormone supplementation (levothyroxine).
Take this medication on an empty stomach, preferably 1 hour before breakfast.
Do not take levothyroxine at the same time as antacids or calcium supplements.
In thyroid cancer patients, thyroid hormone supplementation is usually withheld until radioiodine therapy is completed.
6. Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation
You may be prescribed calcium and vitamin D supplements to maintain adequate levels in the body.
Blood calcium and parathyroid hormone tests are usually advised 4–5 days after surgery.
Once normal levels are achieved during recovery, supplementation is adjusted to RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) levels.
7. Pain Management
Pain after thyroid surgery is generally mild.
Painkillers such as paracetamol (Crocin, Dolo) or aceclofenac are usually sufficient.
If you are allergic to these medications or experience persistent or severe pain despite treatment, consult your surgeon for alternative pain relief options.
