If you’ve been told you have a thyroid nodule, you’re not alone. Thyroid nodules are extremely common—up to 60% of adults will develop at least one in their lifetime. While most nodules are benign and harmless, some grow large enough to cause symptoms like neck pressure, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or cosmetic concerns. Others may cause anxiety simply because they’re there. Traditionally, surgery has been the go-to treatment for problematic nodules. But there’s a new option on the Treasure Coast that’s making waves—and it doesn’t involve a scalpel.
That treatment is radiofrequency ablation, or RFA. At the Diabetes, Thyroid & Hormone Center of the Treasure Coast, we offer this innovative, non-surgical treatment for thyroid nodules right here in our office. But one of the first questions patients ask is: “Is it safe?”
Let’s talk about it.
What Is RFA?
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin needle electrode, guided by ultrasound, to deliver thermal energy directly into the thyroid nodule. This energy causes localized heat, which shrinks the nodule over time while preserving the healthy thyroid tissue around it.
Think of it like precision spot treatment: we’re not removing your thyroid, we’re just reducing the size of the problem area.
How Safe Is RFA for Thyroid Nodules?
Here’s the good news: RFA has an outstanding safety profile. It’s been performed for over a decade internationally and is FDA-approved in the U.S. for treating benign thyroid nodules. It’s already the standard of care in countries like South Korea and Italy. Numerous peer-reviewed studies—including large, multicenter trials—show that RFA is not only safe, but also highly effective.
Some key safety facts:
- No general anesthesia needed – It’s done with local anesthesia, so there’s no need to be put to sleep.
- Low complication rate – Less than 1–2% of patients experience minor complications like bruising or temporary voice hoarseness.
- No thyroid hormone replacement – Unlike surgery, which often results in hypothyroidism, RFA preserves your normal thyroid function in nearly all cases.
- No hospital stay – It’s done in our outpatient clinic. You walk in and walk out the same day.
What Are the Risks?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks—but they’re minimal compared to surgery. Potential side effects include:
Mild pain or swelling in the neck area for 1–3 days
Temporary voice changes due to proximity to the vocal cord nerve (typically resolves in a few weeks)
Very rare bleeding or infection
Let me be clear: these risks are extremely low, especially when RFA is performed by an experienced endocrinologist trained in thyroid imaging and ultrasound-guided procedures—like we do here at our center.
How Effective Is RFA?
It’s not just safe—it works.
Studies show that nodules shrink by 50–90% within 6–12 months after RFA. That means:
Cosmetic lumps disappear
Pressure symptoms improve
No lifelong thyroid meds
In fact, in the vast majority of cases, a single treatment session is all that’s needed. And if more is needed, the procedure can be repeated without risk of scarring or compromising future treatment options.
Who Is a Candidate for RFA?
RFA is ideal for patients who:
Have benign thyroid nodules (confirmed by biopsy)
Are experiencing symptoms, cosmetic concerns, or nodule growth
Want to avoid surgery
Have medical conditions that make surgery risky
Prefer a non-invasive approach
At our practice, we perform a detailed ultrasound evaluation and biopsy (if not already done) to confirm eligibility. We’ll also discuss your thyroid labs, medical history, and preferences before recommending RFA.
Why We Offer RFA at the Diabetes, Thyroid & Hormone Center of the Treasure Coast
Here’s the truth: too many patients are still getting unnecessary thyroid surgeries. In many cases, they’re losing half or all of their thyroid for a benign condition. That often means taking levothyroxine for life, facing surgical risks, and missing out on less invasive options.
As a triple board-certified endocrinologist with a deep focus on thyroid care, I believe patients deserve advanced options without the hospital hassle. RFA lets us deliver that.
It aligns with our philosophy:
Preserve natural hormone function
Use the least invasive tool possible
Put patients back in control of their care
What to Expect During the Procedure
If you’re nervous about the procedure—don’t be. Most patients are surprised at how quick and painless it is.
Here’s how it works:
You lie on your back, and we apply numbing medication to the skin and around the thyroid.
Using real-time ultrasound, I insert a very thin probe into the nodule.
Thermal energy is delivered, which you may feel as mild warmth or pressure.
The entire process takes about 30–45 minutes.
After a brief observation period, you go home the same day.
You can usually return to work or normal activity the next day.
Real Patients, Real Results
We’ve already helped numerous patients on the Treasure Coast shrink their thyroid nodules without surgery. One of our patients, a teacher in Port St. Lucie, had a large visible nodule that made her self-conscious and uncomfortable in the classroom. After one session of RFA, her nodule shrank by 70% in 6 months—and she avoided surgery and thyroid meds entirely.
Stories like these are why we offer RFA.
Final Thoughts: Should You Consider RFA?
If you’ve been told you have a benign thyroid nodule and:
You don’t want surgery
You want to keep your thyroid function
You want a fast recovery with no scar
You want the most modern, safe approach
Then yes—RFA is worth considering.
At the Diabetes, Thyroid & Hormone Center of the Treasure Coast, we’re proud to bring this cutting-edge therapy to our community. You don’t need to drive to Miami or fly across the country to access advanced thyroid care. It’s right here in Port St. Lucie—delivered with precision, compassion, and a deep commitment to your long-term health.
Ready to Learn More?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ahmet Ergin, MD, today and find out if RFA is right for you. We’ll walk you through everything and help you make the decision that fits your goals and lifestyle.
Location: 1700 SE HILLMOOR DR STE 307 Port St. Lucie, FL
Call: 772-398-7814
