Will I lose or gain weight after partial thyroidectomy for thyroid cancer

Patients with thyroid cancer who undergo hemithyroidectomy may lose or gain weight, which is mainly related to factors such as the extent of thyroid resection, postoperative thyroid hormone suppression, and the patient's nutritional status.

1. Scope of thyroidectomy: If a total thyroidectomy is performed, and both thyroid glands are removed, there will be less thyroid tissue left, which may cause insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones. At this time, the body's required calories will be reduced, and weight loss will occur. If a partial thyroidectomy is performed, and both thyroid glands are retained, the secretion of thyroid hormones will not be affected, and the patient may gain weight;

2. Postoperative thyroid hormone suppression: After a hemisection of the thyroid cancer patient, some patients may experience a decrease in thyroid hormone suppression hormone secretion. If the hormone secretion is excessive, the body will need more calories, resulting in weight gain. If the hormone secretion is insufficient, the body will need less calories, resulting in weight loss;

3. Nutritional status of the patient: If the nutritional status of the thyroid cancer patient is poor after hemisection surgery, malnutrition may occur, and the body may absorb less calories, which may lead to weight loss;

4. Other factors: If thyroid cancer patients have other diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, etc., their basal metabolic rate is high, and the patients consume more calories, and weight loss will be more obvious. If the basal metabolic rate is low, the patients consume fewer calories, and they may gain weight.

Patients who have undergone thyroid cancer surgery should pay attention to a balanced diet and eat more high-protein, high-vitamin, and high-fiber foods, such as fish, eggs, and milk. They should also pay attention to wound cleanliness, avoid infection, get enough rest, and avoid staying up late. They should also take medication on time and have follow-up visits on time so that the doctor can understand the recovery and adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner.