After your thyroid surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room. It is normal to feel some pain in your neck after a thyroid procedure. Your throat may also be sore, and it may hurt to talk and swallow. This is normal immediately following the procedure. In most cases, you will stay in the hospital for the first night of your recovery to be monitored for any complications, such as bleeding or difficulty breathing.
Initially, you will be limited to taking fluids. If you are able to drink fluids without a problem, you will probably begin eating soft foods the next morning. In most cases, you will be able to return to a normal diet within 72 hours of surgery, barring any unforeseen complications.
Most patients are able to return home within 24 hours after the procedure. Before your discharge, you will be given instructions on how to care for your surgical incision and when to see your surgeon.
