Thyroid nodules do not always require removal of the entire thyroid gland. Thyroidectomy includes both a major portion of the thyroid gland and a total resection. Total resection is indicated for conditions such as thyroid cancer, so if a thyroid nodule is diagnosed as malignant then a total thyroidectomy may be considered and thyroid hormone supplementation will be required after surgery. If the thyroid nodule is so large that it presses on the esophagus or trachea, or if it is accompanied by severe hyperthyroidism and medication is ineffective for a long period of time, then a major thyroidectomy may be considered; if it is a benign nodule that does not have symptoms of pressure, then regular observation is usually sufficient. Patients diagnosed with thyroid nodules should be treated under the guidance of a doctor.