What will my thyroidectomy scar look like?
What will my thyroidectomy scar look like? I am having a total thyroidectomy because I have thyroid cancer. What will the scar look like? Answer: Most thyroidectomy incisions are about two to three inches in length, slightly curved upward, and pencil thin. To help minimize the appearance of a scar, many surgeons try to make the incision in a natural fold of the neck. This isn’t always possible, but surgeons do try if they can. You can also check out these reader-submitted photos of thyroidectomy scars to get an idea of how yours may heal. The first few days following surgery, you can expect your incision to be red, and it may be a slightly raised or bumpy. Don’t confuse the raised appearance with a possible infection, symptoms of which include inflammation or swelling at the incision site. Don’t worry — your doctor will ensure you are well aware of infection symptoms and what to keep an eye out for.
