Endoscopic Thyroid Surgery with No Neck Scar (TOETVA): What Is It and Who Is It For?
(Ear Nose and Throat Center) article author : Sombat Wongmanee, M.D. 2026-09-29 14:38:00
Highlight: Endoscopic Thyroid Surgery with No Neck Scar (TOETVA): What Is It and Who Is It For?
-
Endoscopic thyroid surgery (TOETVA) through the mouth, with no scar on the neck
-
Transoral thyroid surgery: the scope is inserted through the inside of the lower lip, so there is no need to cut the skin of the neck
-
Who is suitable: a non-cancerous thyroid nodule no larger than 4 cm, or thyroid cancer that has not spread
-
Additional criteria: no previous surgery or radiation to the neck and chin, including hyperthyroidism that has not responded to medication
-
Fast recovery: go home within 24-48 hours and return to daily activities within 1-2 weeks
-
Thyroid surgery in Chonburi: assessed individually by a head and neck specialist at Samitivej Chonburi Hospital
Endoscopic Thyroid Surgery with No Neck Scar (TOETVA): What Is It and Who Is It For?
Endoscopic thyroid surgery is an option for people who need thyroid surgery but worry about a visible scar on the neck. This is especially true of TOETVA (transoral thyroidectomy), which passes the scope through the inside of the lower lip, so there is no visible scar on the neck. This article explains what the technique is, who it suits, and what to expect during the procedure and recovery.
What is TOETVA endoscopic thyroid surgery?
TOETVA stands for Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach The surgeon passes a small camera and instruments through the inside of the lower lip to remove the thyroid gland without cutting the skin of the neck. Open surgery, by contrast, usually leaves a visible scar.
Benefits of transoral thyroid surgery
- ✓No visible scar suits people who care about their appearance, such as those whose work is face-to-face
- ✓Less pain and faster recovery most patients return to daily life within a short time
- ✓Precise endoscopic technique gives a clear view of the important structures
- ✓More confidence in your appearance after treatment
Who is suitable for endoscopic thyroid surgery?
In general, doctors consider patients in these groups:
- ✓A non-cancerous thyroid nodule no larger than 4 cm
- ✓Thyroid cancer that has not spread
- ✓Hyperthyroidism that has not responded to medication
- ✓No previous surgery or radiation to the neck and chin
Suitability depends on each person's ultrasound, biopsy results and treatment history, so a surgeon should assess every patient individually.
Open vs endoscopic thyroid surgery: what is the difference?
| Topic | Open surgery | Endoscopic surgery (TOETVA) |
|---|---|---|
| Neck scar | A linear scar across the neck | No external scar |
| Range of conditions treated | Broader, including large nodules and cancers that need lymph node dissection (shorter operating time) | For carefully selected patients (longer operating time) |
| Expertise required | The standard method | Requires specific training and experience |
| Treatment outcome | Similar in appropriately selected patients | |
The main risks of thyroid surgery, such as hoarseness, low calcium from the parathyroid glands, or bleeding, can occur with any method. Choose the method by safety and suitability for the condition first, then consider cosmetic results.
Steps of transoral thyroid surgery
- 1General anesthesia so you feel no pain during surgery
- 2Insert the scope and instruments through the inside of the lip
- 3Remove the thyroid gland while taking care to protect the vocal cord nerves and other important structures
- 4Close the incision inside the mouth leaving no external scar
Recovery after endoscopic thyroid surgery
- ✓Go home within 24-48 hours
- ✓Some pain and swelling under the chin is possible, but it eases within a few days
- ✓Avoid hard or very hot food at first so the wound in the mouth is not irritated
- ✓Return to daily activities within 1-2 weeks
Why choose Samitivej Chonburi Hospital for thyroid surgery?
Good outcomes depend on more than the surgical technique alone. Samitivej Chonburi looks after patients in three areas.
1. Technology and treatment systems that fit your needs
- ✓Endoscopic thyroid surgery for suitable patients
- ✓An individual treatment plan based on test results and the location of the nodule
- ✓Small incision, less pain, faster recovery, with safety in mind
- ✓Continuous follow-up after surgery
2. Specialists in ENT and head and neck surgery
- ✓Care by specialist doctors trained in head and neck surgery (Head & Neck Surgery)
- ✓Thorough pre-operative assessment, including laboratory tests and imaging
- ✓Careful attention to the vocal cord nerves and the parathyroid glands
- ✓A team of nurses and allied health professionals from before surgery through follow-up
3. Close support throughout your treatment journey
- ✓Clear consultation and explanation of treatment options
- ✓Organized coordination of tests, surgery scheduling and preparation
- ✓Care for pain, the wound, eating and recovery
- ✓Follow-up appointments and self-care advice for when you go home
Frequently asked questions about endoscopic thyroid surgery
Is transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery painful?
You may have pain and swelling under the chin or lower lip, but it usually eases within a few days. Your doctor will arrange pain relief to suit you.
How many days do I stay in hospital?
Most patients can go home within 24-48 hours, depending on their condition and the doctor's assessment.
How large can a thyroid nodule be for transoral surgery?
A non-cancerous nodule up to 4 cm usually qualifies, but the nature and location of the nodule and your treatment history must also be considered.
Does thyroid surgery affect the voice?
Every method of thyroid surgery carries a risk to the nerve that controls the voice, which may cause temporary hoarseness. Permanent injury is uncommon, and the surgeon takes special care to protect this structure.
Will I need thyroid medication after surgery?
It depends on how much of the gland is removed. If all of it is removed, you usually need ongoing thyroid hormone replacement. After partial removal, some people may not need it. Your doctor will monitor your hormone levels after surgery.
Consult a doctor about thyroid surgery in Chonburi
The suitability of each technique depends on the size and location of the nodule and your treatment history. If you are interested in endoscopic thyroid surgery or have questions about thyroid disease, you can consult our specialist team.
Inquiries / book a consultation at Samitivej Chonburi Hospital
Line: @schtele or click https://maac.io/3wgUI
ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) Center: 033-038911
Hospital Articles