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Scarless thyroid surgery

Scarless Thyroid Surgery is a new technique for removing some or all of the thyroid gland without leaving any scar in the neck. Scarless robotic thyroid surgery is the most modern form of thyroid surgery and is only performed by a small percentage of thyroid surgeons world wide.

Scarless thyroid surgery in Tampa

Performed at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery, scarless thyroid surgery is a new technique for removing some or all of the thyroid gland without leaving any scar in the neck.

Most people who require thyroid surgery are candidates for scarless thyroid surgery, which can be done two different ways (robotic and transoral). Both types are offered at our hospital, although robotic thyroid surgery is the best choice for almost all patients. Scarless robotic thyroid surgery is the most modern form of thyroid surgery and is only performed by a small percentage of thyroid surgeons worldwide. Advanced training is required to perform this operation.

Our Scarless Program

Our scarless surgery team is proud of their specialty, providing great results for patients who travel long distances to avoid a neck scar.

How is Scarless Robotic Thyroid Surgery Done?

When we talk about using a "robot" in surgery, or "robotic" thyroid surgery we are referring to a very advanced operating machine that has multiple "arms" that are attached to long instruments. The surgeon makes small incisions in the armpits of the patient (and thus no scar on the neck) and the "arms" of the robot are placed into these incisions. Once all the robot "arms" are placed into their incisions the surgeon sits at a control console that allows him/her to manipulate all of the arms at the same time. It's like we magically made a very talented surgeon with two arms and hands into a surgeon with 4 arms and 4 hands. This provides better exposure to the tissues and allows a more detailed operation for many patients.

Who is Candidate for Robotic Thyroid Surgery?

Robotic thyroid surgery is a very good choice for many patients who need thyroid surgery. Patients with thyroid nodules and thyroid goiters are very good candidates for robotic scarless thyroid surgery. Many patients with thyroid cancer are also good candidates for robotic thyroid surgery also, provided they have a very experienced robotic surgeon who has performed many robotic thyroid operations.

At the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery, a part of HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital, our thyroid surgeons will provide you with options for robotic or traditional thyroid surgery based upon the findings of your ultrasound and other factors in your history and examination. Whatever condition you have, we will work closely with you to address your questions and concerns while figuring out the best treatment plan for your unique needs. If robotic surgery isn't right for you, we will work with you on alternative options.

If you chose robotic scarless thyroid surgery, our goals are for you to have the same exact outcomes and cure rates if you have a standard "open" thyroid operation. We do not want to compromise on your ultimate outcome, but if you chose the robot you will leave without a scar!

Counseling about robotic scarless thyroid surgery is something that you can expect. Not every patient is a candidate for this approach, but our team will answer your questions and help you decide what it best for you.

Read more about our traditional Thyroid Surgery Program.