Head and neck surgery

Surgical Procedure	Recommended return to non-manual employment	Recommended return to manual employment	Other Advice
Hemi-thyroidectomy	2 weeks	3-8 weeks	A thyroid operation may temporarily affect the volume of voice. This may be a factor to consider if the job places high demands on speech, for example, teachers, call centre workers. Speech may become fatigued as it is used during the day. Driving advice: Practice reversing and checking blind spots while the car is stationary before attempting to drive.
Subtotal thyroidectomy	2 weeks	3-8 weeks	Longer if parathyroid glands removed A thyroid operation may temporarily affect the volume of voice. This may be a factor to consider if the job places high demands on speech, for example, teachers, call centre workers. Speech may become fatigued as it is used during the day. Driving advice: Practice reversing and checking blind spots while the car is stationary before attempting to drive.
Total thyroidectomy	2 weeks	3-8 weeks	More time off for chemotherapy A thyroid operation may temporarily affect the volume of voice. This may be a factor to consider if the job places high demands on speech, for example, teachers, call centre workers. Speech may become fatigued as it is used during the day. Driving advice: Practice reversing and checking blind spots while the car is stationary before attempting to drive.
Parotid gland removal	2 weeks	Possibly longer
Submandibular gland removal	7-14 days	2-3 weeks