[MHLee]

#1059418

The surgery went well. I have all 4 parathyroids, though he said that 2 had to be reimplanted. My calcium levels are normal, and except for pain from the breathing tube and a stiff neck, I’m doing okay.

My neck, however, is so super swollen! Not my incision, but above it. Like, the underside of my chin is bulging out enormously such that my neck looks wider than my face! I also have a fair bit of dark purple bruising.

The surgeon said that it is more swelling than normal, but he thinks it is okay. If it changes significantly, I am supposed to call him. Question for those who had post-thyroidectomy swelling:

How long does it last? It is so uncomfortable, and I feel like I would be almost my normal self without all this swelling. Thank you!

[adenure]

#1174582

Congratulations on being one step closer to being well!!!! 😎 I’m glad to hear all went well. Did your surgeon suggest taking Tums (1000 mg) for the first 3 weeks or so? My surgeon had me take 4 a day the 1st week, 3 a day the 2nd week and 2 a day the third week as a precaution with the calcium levels. He said it doesn’t hurt to take Tums, so it might be something to think about- especially if you feel any tingling in your face, arms or legs (sign of low calcium). My surgeon said the parathyroids get inflamed from the surgery, but return to normal after a few weeks.

I did not have any swelling, so I’m not sure what to suggest there except ice packs will probably help along with staying upright. I slept upright in a chair for 3 nights (per surgeon’s request) after my TT.

Have you started Synthroid yet? I started 100 mcg on day 2 after surgery. I’m grateful I did as even though at 6 weeks I had a TSH of 6.35, I never went very hypo. After one bump to 112 mcg, I leveled out 2 weeks later at .79 and then another 4 weeks later at .68. If your endo. is willing, it might help with how you feel.

I hope all goes well for you!

[MHLee]

#1174583

Thanks, Alexis! I’m starting 125mg of Synthroid tomorrow. I’m also taking 2 1000mg tums 4x per day for at least 3 weeks. I’ve been prescribed magnesium and vitamin D as well. I really think that I would feel pretty well if I wasn’t so swollen! Just glad it’s over.

[Author]

Posts