When seeking thyroid surgery abroad, international patients increasingly choose South Korea and Samsung Medical Center stands as the nation's leading facility for thyroid treatment.
Samsung Hospital's thyroid expertise has positioned it as a trusted destination for those requiring thyroid procedures.
The hospital offers advanced surgical techniques, exceptional outcomes, and comprehensive care for patients from around the world,
Why Choose Samsung Medical Center for Thyroid Surgery in South Korea?
Samsung Medical Center (SMC) in Seoul represents the pinnacle of medical excellence in Asia with the hospital's dedicated Thyroid Center performing 2,000+ thyroid surgeries annually.
They combine expertise across multiple specialties including endocrinology, endocrine surgery, head and neck surgery, radiology, pathology, nuclear medicine, and radiation oncology.
Holding the prestigious status of "Hospital of Presidential Standards," Samsung Medical Center has earned 1st place in Customer Satisfaction and Quality Indexes 16 times consecutively.
This recognition reflects the institution's unwavering commitment to clinical excellence and patient centred care.
The Samsung Thyroid Center: Unmatched Surgical Excellence

Comprehensive, Multidisciplinary Approach
The Thyroid Center employs a collaborative care system called the "Thyroid Nodule Clinic," which provides one stop service allowing patients to complete all necessary examinations in one day.
This streamlined approach means international patients can undergo ultrasound assisted fine needle aspiration cytology, thyroid scans, and blood tests all on the same day.
Thus, the diagnostic process remarkably efficient for those travelling from abroad.
The centre's multidisciplinary team holds regular meetings to discuss complex cases and strategise optimal treatment approaches.
Volume and Expertise
Annually, the Thyroid Center manages over 50,000 outpatient visits and performs more than 23,000 ultrasounds, demonstrating the depth of experience that Samsung surgeons bring to each procedure.
This high volume practice translates directly into superior surgical outcomes and refined techniques that benefit every patient.
Advanced Surgical Techniques Available at Samsung Medical Center

Minimally Invasive and Robotic Thyroid Surgery
Samsung Medical Center is at the forefront of minimally invasive thyroid surgery.
The hospital performs minimally invasive surgeries that are alternatives to traditional open surgery including:
- Robot surgery
- Endoscopy
- Laser surgery
The bilateral axillo breast approach (BABA) is one of the most popular contemporary remote access thyroidectomy techniques, with robotic thyroidectomy overcoming many limitations of traditional endoscopic approaches.
This technique allows surgeons to remove thyroid tissue through small incisions in the armpit and breast area, avoiding visible neck scars a significant cosmetic advantage highly valued by international patients.
Samsung Medical Center utilises the Da Vinci surgical system, which provides enhanced precision, 3D visualisation, and greater dexterity during complex procedures.
The robotic platform is particularly beneficial for central lymph node dissection in thyroid cancer cases, offering improved visualisation and more controlled movements compared to conventional endoscopic instruments.
Intraoperative Neuromonitoring for Enhanced Safety
Samsung Medical Center employs intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) during thyroidectomy to confirm the functional integrity of the recurrent laryngeal nerve and facilitate identification before visualisation.
This advanced monitoring technique is especially valuable in high risk situations such as large goitres, revision surgery, and invasive malignancy, helping to reduce the risk of vocal cord paralysis one of the most concerning complications of thyroid surgery.
State of the Art Facilities and Infrastructure

The Samsung Comprehensive Cancer Center is Korea's largest independent building, providing the most comprehensive care for cancer patients in Asia.
For patients with thyroid cancer, this means access to cutting edge diagnostic equipment, advanced radiation therapy, and multidisciplinary cancer care all under one roof.
Advanced Medical Technology
Samsung Medical Center is equipped with the latest diagnostic and therapeutic technology:
- Proton Therapy: Used for tumours of the thyroid gland, this targeted radiation treatment destroys cancerous tissue whilst minimising damage to healthy tissue
- Gamma Knife Technology: Samsung is the only centre in Asia with the Icon Gamma Knife, one of the latest cutting edge technologies
- 3D Imaging Systems: Advanced visualisation for precise surgical planning
- Real Time Diagnostic Systems: The hospital uses electronic medical records and real time transmission of diagnostic images including X ray, CT and MRI
Thyroid Surgery Recovery and Follow Up Care

Samsung Medical Center's approach to thyroid surgery emphasises not just excellent surgical outcomes, but comprehensive recovery and long term care.
The hospital's efficient systems and Saturday surgery availability help international patients plan their travel and recovery period more effectively.
For patients with thyroid cancer requiring radioactive iodine therapy, Samsung's nuclear medicine department provides this treatment on site, eliminating the need to travel to multiple facilities.
The Cancer Ambulatory Treatment Centre with 78 beds allows patients to receive treatment without hospitalisation, offering flexibility for international patients managing their recovery.
The hospital provides detailed discharge planning and can coordinate follow up care with physicians in your home country, ensuring continuity of treatment after you return home.
Cost Considerations: Value for International Patients
Whilst specific pricing varies based on individual cases and surgical complexity, thyroid surgery in South Korea generally offers significant cost advantages compared to Western countries.
In the United States, thyroid surgery can cost anywhere from $11,500 to $25,000, whilst similar procedures in South Korea typically cost substantially less, even when factoring in travel and accommodation expenses.
Samsung Medical Centre provides transparent pricing and detailed treatment estimates before surgery, allowing international patients to plan their medical journey with confidence.
The quality of care, surgical expertise, and advanced technology available match or exceed that found in the most prestigious medical centres globally, whilst costs remain considerably more accessible.
The Samsung Medical Center Advantage for International Patients

Choosing Samsung Hospital for thyroid surgery in South Korea means selecting:
- Proven Surgical Excellence: 2,000+ thyroid surgeries annually performed by highly specialised teams
- Advanced Surgical Options: Robotic surgery, minimally invasive techniques, and nerve monitoring for optimal outcomes
- Comprehensive Cancer Care: Full service thyroid cancer treatment from diagnosis through radiation therapy
- International Patient Expertise: Nearly 30 years of experience serving patients from around the world
- Efficient, Streamlined Care: Same day diagnostic services and coordinated multidisciplinary treatment
- World Class Facilities: State of the art operating theatres, imaging technology, and recovery facilities
- Premium Yet Accessible: International standard care at costs significantly below Western countries
How My 1Health Helps International Patients Access Thyroid Surgery at Samsung Medical Center
My 1Health simplifies every step of your medical journey to Samsung Medical Center.
Pre Treatment Support
Medical Record Review: Our patient support specialists collect your records and imaging studies. We submit them directly to Samsung's thyroid specialists. You receive a preliminary assessment with treatment recommendations tailored to your condition.
Clear Cost Estimates: We provide detailed, itemised cost estimates. All expenses are transparent surgical fees, hospital charges, tests, and post operative care.
Direct Specialist Access: We arrange consultations with Samsung's leading thyroid surgeons. This includes specialists in robotic and minimally invasive techniques.
Travel and Logistics

Visa Assistance: We handle all medical visa documentation. This includes official letters from Samsung Medical Center. The approval process is smooth and straightforward.
Accommodation and Transport: We arrange comfortable accommodation near the hospital. We coordinate airport transfers and hospital transportation as well.
During Treatment
On Ground Coordination: Your patient support specialist will assist you with hospital check ins and ensure 24/7 availability for questions or concerns.
Family Support We help family members travelling with you. Accommodation, local information, and comfort are arranged. Your loved ones can focus on supporting your recovery.
After Treatment
Discharge Planning: We coordinate with Samsung for comprehensive discharge instructions, medication, and follow up appointment scheduling.
Continued Care: We facilitate communication between Samsung's specialists and your local doctors. Your home healthcare providers receive all necessary information.
Remote Follow Up: For post operative questions, we maintain contact with Samsung's team. Remote consultations are arranged when appropriate. We advise if return visits are necessary.

Why Choose My 1Health?
Established Partnership: We have facilitated numerous successful thyroid surgeries at Samsung Medical Center.
Single Point of Contact: One dedicated patient support specialist manages your entire journey.
Quality Assurance: You receive care from Samsung's most experienced thyroid surgeons. All services meet international medical standards.
Getting Started in Five Simple Steps:
- Initial Consultation – Contact us to discuss your thyroid condition
- Medical Review – Submit records for Samsung specialist evaluation
- Treatment Plan – Receive detailed proposal with costs and timeline
- Travel Arrangements – We handle visa, flights, and accommodation
- Treatment and Return – Complete support throughout your journey
Your Path to Thyroid Wellness
Samsung Medical Center holds "Hospital of Presidential Standards" status. My 1Health provides comprehensive support services.
Together, we deliver world class thyroid surgery with complete peace of mind.
From your first enquiry to your final follow up, we make your medical journey seamless. Expert guidance every step of the way.
Medical excellence combined with personalised international patient support.