What are the risks and recovery expectations for TOETVA?

Risks are similar to conventional thyroidectomy, including temporary voice changes from recurrent laryngeal nerve irritation, hypoparathyroidism, bleeding, and infection. Unique to TOETVA are transient mental nerve paresthesia (numbness of the lower lip and chin) and rare oral wound complications. Recovery typically involves a soft diet for a few days, and most patients return to non-strenuous work within 2 weeks. The hidden scar is a major advantage, but full healing of oral incisions takes about 1–2 weeks.