Thyroid and neck lumps

Who this is for

Adults with a lump in the neck, a thyroid nodule found on a scan, a swollen salivary gland, or a hoarse voice lasting more than three weeks. Many neck lumps are caused by infection or other non-cancerous conditions, but a lump that lasts more than three weeks should be checked.

How we assess

The surgeon takes a history, examines the head and neck and usually looks at the throat with a thin flexible camera. Tests may include an ultrasound, a fine-needle aspiration (a small needle sample), blood tests and sometimes CT or MRI.

Treatment options

Many lumps and thyroid nodules only need monitoring. Surgery may be recommended for some nodules, a goitre causing pressure symptoms, an overactive thyroid in selected cases, salivary gland lumps, or when cancer is suspected or confirmed. Where needed, care is coordinated with your GP, an endocrinologist and other specialists.

Risks of thyroid and neck surgery

• Bleeding, which rarely needs urgent return to theatre

• Infection and a visible scar

• Change in voice, from temporary or, rarely, permanent injury to the nerves of the voice box

• Low calcium after thyroid surgery, usually temporary, occasionally long-term

• Needing lifelong thyroid hormone tablets after removal of all or part of the thyroid

• For salivary gland surgery: weakness of the facial nerve (usually temporary), numbness, or sweating of the cheek when eating

• Risks of general anaesthetic

Recovery (typical)

Usually one or two nights in hospital. Most people return to light activities within one to two weeks. Results of any tissue tests are discussed at follow-up.

Where

Consultations at Bella Vista (near Norwest) and Parramatta.

Related pages: ENT FAQ

Referral: To see a specialist and claim a Medicare rebate you need a current referral from your GP or another specialist. Please talk to your GP first; they can email the referral to admin@entsurgeons-sydney.com.au. New referrals are usually seen within 1–2 weeks.

Fees: Private fees apply. A Medicare rebate is available with a valid referral, and bulk billing may be offered in some circumstances. Our rooms will explain consultation and any procedure fees before your appointment.

Contact: Sydney ENT Surgeons, Suite A11, Level 1, 24–32 Lexington Drive, Bella Vista NSW 2153 · (02) 8883 5368 · admin@entsurgeons-sydney.com.au. Parramatta consultations at Agios Health, 3/23 Hassall Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 · (02) 8608 2262.

This page is general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your own doctor. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. You are welcome to seek a second opinion from another appropriately qualified practitioner before deciding on treatment.

In an emergency, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.