Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) FAQ with Dr. Ahmet Ergin: 30 Must-Know Answers for Patients in the Treasure Coast

If you’ve been told you have a thyroid nodule or goiter, and you’re trying to avoid surgery, thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) might just be the game-changer you’re looking for. This minimally invasive, outpatient procedure is transforming how we manage benign thyroid nodules—and Dr. Ahmet Ergin, a trusted endocrinologist serving Port St. Lucie, Vero Beach, and Stuart, is leading the charge on Florida’s Treasure Coast.

Below are 30 of the most frequently asked questions about thyroid RFA, with expert guidance from Dr. Ergin and his team at TCENDO.

Indications & Diagnosis

1. What is thyroid RFA used for?

RFA is primarily used to shrink benign (non-cancerous) thyroid nodules that cause symptoms like neck pressure, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or cosmetic concerns.

2. Can RFA treat cancerous thyroid nodules?

No. RFA is currently only approved for benign nodules. Suspicious or confirmed cancerous nodules require surgical removal or more aggressive treatment.

3. Do I need a biopsy before RFA?

Yes. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, usually performed twice, is required to confirm the nodule is benign before proceeding with RFA.

4. What symptoms suggest I might need RFA?

You might benefit if you're experiencing:

5. Can RFA treat hyperfunctioning (“toxic”) nodules?

Yes, especially if the nodule is causing subclinical or overt hyperthyroidism. RFA can reduce hormone overproduction and normalize thyroid levels.

6. What if I have multiple nodules?

Dr. Ergin can treat dominant or symptomatic nodules first. Multiple sessions may be planned based on the size, location, and number of nodules.

Pre-Procedure Preparation

7. How do I prepare for an RFA procedure?

Preparation includes:

Stopping blood thinners 5–7 days prior
Having recent thyroid labs and ultrasound
Hydrating well the night before
Arriving with no makeup or lotions on the neck
Dont have any metal on your body
Make sure you are not pregnant.

8. Should I stop thyroid medications before RFA?

Generally, no. Continue your thyroid medications unless directed otherwise. If you’re on anticoagulants (like warfarin), Dr. Ergin will give you special instructions.

9. Do I need to fast before the procedure?

No, light meals are usually fine. However, avoid heavy or greasy food 2–3 hours beforehand.

10. Should I avoid caffeine or supplements before the procedure?

Yes, it’s best to avoid caffeine and over-the-counter supplements the morning of the procedure to minimize jitteriness or interference with medications.

11. What should I wear to the appointment?

Wear a loose, button-down or V-neck shirt to allow access to the neck area. Avoid jewelry, makeup, or cologne.

What to Expect During the Procedure

12. Is thyroid RFA painful?

Not typically. You’ll be awake but numb. A local anesthetic is used, and most patients report only mild discomfort or pressure—not pain.

13. Will I be awake during the procedure?

Yes. You’ll be fully awake but relaxed and numb. This helps your care team monitor your voice and comfort levels.

14. How long does the procedure take?

Most procedures take 30–60 minutes, depending on nodule size and complexity.

15. Will I need stitches?

No. RFA is a needle-based procedure. Only a small puncture is made—no sutures or surgical incisions.

16. Is it done in a hospital?

Nope. Dr. Ergin performs it safely in his clinic using advanced ultrasound and ablation technology—no hospital stay required.

17. Can I drive myself home afterward?

Most patients can drive themselves if they did not take Xanax before the procedure. However, in most cases, the doctor will prescribe Xanax, so we recommend arranging a driver to and from the clinic.

Contraindications & Cautions

18. Is RFA safe during pregnancy?

No. RFA is not recommended during pregnancy. Ultrasound exposure and heat can pose risks to fetal development.

19. Can I do RFA if I have a pacemaker or implant?

It depends. Dr. Ergin will review your medical history thoroughly. RFA may be contraindicated in some implantable devices due to electrical interference.

20. Is RFA safe for elderly patients?

Yes. In fact, it’s an excellent surgical alternative for older adults who want to avoid general anesthesia or lengthy recovery.

21. What if I have thyroid cancer risk factors?

If your nodule has suspicious features (microcalcifications, irregular margins, etc.), you may need surgery or monitoring instead if you do not have 2 negative biopsies.

22. Can children or teenagers get RFA?

RFA is not yet routinely offered to children. Dr. Ergin evaluates each case individually, focusing on safety and long-term outcomes.

Risks & Side Effects

23. What are the risks of RFA?

Though rare, risks include:

24. Will I lose my voice?

Voice changes are uncommon and usually temporary if they occur. Continuous voice monitoring during RFA minimizes nerve injury risk.

25. Will I have a scar?

No visible scarring. Unlike surgery, RFA does not require any incisions.

26. Can the nodule come back after RFA?

Possibly. While RFA shrinks nodules by 50–90%, small regrowth can happen. Retreatments are rare but possible.

Results & Follow-Up

27. How soon will I see results?

Most patients notice a reduction in pressure or visible size within 1–3 months. Final volume reduction occurs over 6–12 months.

28. Will I still have a thyroid after RFA?

Yes! That’s the beauty of RFA. Your thyroid stays intact, and hormone production is typically unaffected.

29. Do I still need follow-up after RFA?

Absolutely. Follow-up includes ultrasound and labs at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to monitor results and thyroid function.

30. Can I still get thyroid surgery later if needed?

Yes. RFA doesn’t “burn any bridges.” If surgery becomes necessary in the future, it’s still an option.

Why Choose Dr. Ahmet Ergin for Thyroid RFA?

Dr. Ahmet Ergin is one of the few endocrinologists in the Treasure Coast region offering advanced, in-office thyroid RFA. He’s performed hundreds of ultrasound-guided procedures and is deeply passionate about helping patients avoid unnecessary surgery.

Whether you live in Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Vero Beach, or anywhere on Florida’s east coast, Dr. Ergin and his expert team at the Diabetes, Thyroid & Hormone Center (TCENDO) provide a personalized, evidence-based approach to thyroid care.

Dr. Ergin is known for:

Extensive thyroid nodule expertise
Compassionate patient care
State-of-the-art RFA equipment
Avoiding unnecessary thyroid removal
Getting you back to life—without surgery

Ready to Find Out If You’re a Candidate?

If you’ve been told you need thyroid surgery—or you’re just tired of “watch and wait”—it’s time to explore your options. Thyroid RFA offers long-term relief without scars, stitches, or downtime.

Call Diabetes, Thyroid & Hormone Center Of The Treasure Coast today at (772) 398-8484 or visit www.tcendo.com to schedule a consultation.