The life expectancy after surgery for malignant thyroid nodules is related to the stage of the tumor and the type of pathology. If treated early, the 10-year survival rate can reach 98%. Thyroid nodules are divided into benign nodules and malignant nodules. Benign nodules can be selected for regular observation or surgical removal, while most of the malignant nodules need to be selected for surgical treatment, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy according to the results of post-operative pathological examination. The life expectancy of patients after surgery mainly depends on the pathological type of the tumor and the stage of the thyroid tumor. If patients take active treatment in the early stage of the disease, the 10-year survival rate of patients can reach about 98%, and if metastatic thyroid cancer occurs, the 5-year survival rate can also reach 95%. However, undifferentiated thyroid cancer is highly malignant and the life expectancy is only about 1 year. In conclusion, once a patient discovers a thyroid swelling, early consultation and treatment should be provided, which can improve the prognosis and the quality of life of the patient.