Hi. I had mine done robotically. There were two small incisions on my left side that was it. I was in the hopsital for 2 days (I was in cardiac intensive care because I had a chest tube but that was the worse part. Once the tube came out it was not bad at all). I felt better after about 2 wks. They wouldn't let me go back to work for 3 week because that is a standard when you hv had a chest tube. This was to advoid and complications. I do agree with the others you must find a Dr that has been doing it for a while. And a hospital too. You need to make sure the staff know what is going on. I had a bunch if interns coming in asking if the cold look at me. I guesse they where observing the procedure. It's not very common.

The goal is to get it all so it doesn't grow back.
Health is important.
Risk of too small of incision or robotic surgery is the risk of leaving some behind.
The only thing worse than a big scar is
Needing to go back in at a later date and having a scar.
As years go on, the scar will most likely be the least of your worries.

Hello Maureen

When my son had a thymectomy two years ago, the surgeon made a small incision at the base of his throat and disconnected things from there. Then, two small incisions were made in his right side near the lower ribcage and the thymus was removed from there. No sternum-cracking needed! I hope your surgery goes well.

JentheMom, I hope your son's surgery was successful.

I'm moving forward with mine. It will be done robotically. I am understanding that it is as effective than the full sternum method but with a shorter recovery time. I am trusting the docs on this one. I'm 42 and am very active. I ran a half marathon 3 weeks prior to MG's arrival in my life. It is amazing what your body can do or fail to do. Anyway, the docs say that this is the best thing for me, particularly given the thymoma. It has been really helpful and comforting to find this group. Thanks for all of your replies.