A parathyroidectomy is a specialized surgical procedure to remove one or more of the parathyroid glands when they produce excess parathyroid hormone (PTH). At our practice, we understand that procedures involving your neck can feel intimidating. That's why we're committed to providing gentle, expert care while helping you understand each step of your treatment journey. This focused outpatient procedure helps regulate calcium levels in your blood, effectively treating conditions like hyperparathyroidism and related symptoms. At Lifetime Surgical, we specialize in focused parathyroidectomy using advanced imaging for exact gland localization, resulting in shorter surgical times and quicker return to normal activities.
You may need a parathyroidectomy if you experience:
Consistently elevated calcium levels in blood tests
Kidney stones (unusually large or occurring repeatedly)
Bone pain, fractures, or osteoporosis that's progressing unusually quickly
Excessive urination and increased thirst
Abdominal pain or digestive issues
Fatigue, weakness, or depression that doesn't respond to treatment
Memory problems or difficulty concentrating ("brain fog")
Diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism through blood testing
Abnormal parathyroid imaging showing enlarged glands
Symptoms that persist despite medication management
Joint pain or muscle weakness
Cardiac arrhythmias related to calcium imbalance
Our approach to parathyroidectomy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with meticulous pre-operative localization using advanced imaging techniques such as sestamibi scans, ultrasound, and when necessary, 4D CT scanning to identify exactly which gland(s) require removal. We utilize intraoperative PTH monitoring to confirm the successful removal of all hyperactive tissue during the procedure, reducing the need for repeat surgeries.
Immediate Post-Procedure (24-48 hours)
Monitor calcium levels as directed by your surgeon
Take prescribed calcium supplements precisely as instructed
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
Keep the incision site clean and dry
Take pain medication as prescribed to manage discomfort
Rest your voice and avoid straining your neck
Eat soft foods if you experience difficulty swallowing
Keep your head and neck slightly elevated while sleeping
Watch for signs of hypocalcemia (tingling in fingers, lips, or around mouth)
Short-Term Recovery (1-2 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment for calcium level testing
Continue calcium and vitamin D supplementation as directed
Resume light activities after 48 hours, gradually increasing as comfortable
Avoid heavy lifting (nothing over 10 pounds) for at least 10 days
Continue keeping the incision site clean, applying ointment if recommended
Return to work based on your surgeon's recommendation (typically 1-2 weeks)
Transition to over-the-counter pain relievers as discomfort decreases
Report any significant changes in energy levels or symptoms to your doctor
Long-Term Expectations
Most patients experience minimal scarring that fades significantly over 6-12 months
Complete normalization of calcium levels within weeks of surgery
Resolution of symptoms related to hyperparathyroidism (kidney stones, bone pain, fatigue)
Improved bone density, typically measurable within one year
Regular blood tests to monitor calcium levels (frequency determined by your doctor)
Most patients can discontinue calcium supplements after a few weeks
Full physical activity can usually resume after 3-4 weeks
Annual endocrine check-ups may be recommended to ensure continued success
Common Side Effects
Temporary hoarseness or voice changes that typically resolve within weeks
Mild swallowing discomfort that improves within days
Small, well-placed scar that typically fades over time
Temporary neck stiffness or discomfort
Mild bruising around the incision site
Temporary calcium level fluctuations requiring monitoring
Less Common Complications
Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) requiring supplementation
Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury affecting voice (occurs in less than 1% of cases)
Bleeding or hematoma formation at the surgical site
Surgical site infection (rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases)
Failure to cure hyperparathyroidism requiring repeat surgery
Need for thyroid medication if thyroid tissue is affected
Adverse reaction to anesthesia (very rare)
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Signs of hypocalcemia: muscle cramps, tingling/numbness around mouth or in fingers
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Excessive swelling, bleeding, or bruising at the incision site
Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication
Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus, or fever)
Significant voice changes or persistent hoarseness
Seizures (rare but serious sign of severe hypocalcemia)
Cardiac symptoms (irregular heartbeat, chest pain)
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
.svg)
All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
.avif){kind=avatar}
At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
.avif){kind=avatar}
Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.