Hi Lily,

I had a 1cm nodule on the right side of my thyroid and had to have a
total thyroidectomy. Once inside, they found that it was necessary
to take all my thyroid, parathyroids and several lymphnodes because
I had papillary carcinoma. I was almost 28 when they did my surgery
so I also was extremely worried about the scar. My surgeon placed
the scar on the "fold" which is very nice....even though you can see
it for now, it is in the perfect place to cover it up with a
beautiful necklace (when the sensitivity goes away of course). I
have a very large scar...it goes almost all the way across my throat
but is very light and has faded signifigantly in the last 2 years.
As someone who has been there, and even about the same age, I would
strongly encourage you to go through with the surgery...especially
if the scarring is your main concern. They make so many great creams
now (like Mederma) and there are so many trendy necklaces out there,
that you'll be able to hide the scar! Don't worry!

Misty
California
--- In ThyroidDisease2@yahoogroups.com, "lilyvc" <lilyvc@...> wrote:
>
> Hi, I'm new to this group because I was diagnosed with a 1cm
thyroid
> nodule about a month ago. I had an ultrasound, TSH (.03), and
FreeT4
> (19) tests done. I then had a fine-needle aspiration biopsy,
which
> showed follicular neoplasm. My doctor is now recommending that I
> remove the left lobe of my thyroid. I'm 26 years old. I'm
feeling
> very nervous and unprepared for surgery, I'm seeking a second
opinion
> to see if there are any alternatives to surgery. Can people talk
> about their own experience with a lobectomy or thyroidectomy
though?
> I'm really worried about the scarring. I know they find a skin
> crease, but given my age, I don't have a lot of creasing that
would
> hide a scar... does the incision have to be in the middle of your
> neck, or can it be off to one side? I'd really appreciate your
> thoughts!
>
> - Lily
>