Meet Dr. Joshua Ziehm

Dr. Joshua Ziehm is a highly skilled thyroid surgeon at the Clayman Thyroid Center, specializing in thyroid, parathyroid, neck dissection, adrenal, and robotic surgery. He completed a prestigious Head and Neck Endocrine Surgery Fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia and earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Kansas City University. During his General Surgery residencies at Easton Hospital and St. Luke’s University Hospital, he demonstrated a passion for mentoring and was recognized as Surgery Resident of the Year in 2019. Board-certified by the American Board of Surgery, Dr. Ziehm has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications and conducted research at the University of Kansas Cancer Center. Outside of medicine, he enjoys hiking, golfing, and supporting Kansas City sports teams with his wife and dog.

Q&A with Dr. Joshua Ziehm, Thyroid Surgeon at the Clayman Thyroid Center

What approach do you take to make patients feel comfortable and confident about their thyroid surgery?

My approach to helping patients feel comfortable and confident about their thyroid surgery begins with listening. I believe that the foundation of a positive surgical experience is building trust and making sure patients feel fully informed. During our consultations, I take the time to explain the diagnosis, the surgical procedure, and what they can expect at each stage—from pre-surgery to recovery. I also encourage patients to ask as many questions as they need, because understanding their care is a key part of feeling comfortable.

I understand that surgery can feel intimidating, so I focus on providing clear, honest, and compassionate communication. I make it a priority to create an environment where patients feel supported and empowered to make the best decisions for their health.

Additionally, I work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best possible outcomes. This includes pre-operative assessments, personalized care plans, and continuous support during recovery. By involving patients in their own care decisions and ensuring they have access to all necessary resources, I help them feel confident that they are in expert hands throughout the entire process.

Finally, I understand that emotional well-being is as important as physical health, so I make sure patients feel comfortable and reassured every step of the way. I’m here to guide them with the utmost care and attention to their needs.

How does the team at the Clayman Thyroid Center collaborate to provide top-quality thyroid care?

At the Clayman Thyroid Center, we are dedicated to providing exceptional, specialized care by focusing exclusively on thyroid surgery. Our entire team is committed to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of thyroid conditions, ensuring that every patient receives expert care tailored to their specific needs.

While we are a team of skilled and experienced thyroid surgeons, we also have a full support staff—including nurses, surgical coordinators, and medical assistants—who are all highly trained and specialized in thyroid care. This specialized focus means that everyone at the center, from the front desk to the operating room, is deeply knowledgeable about thyroid issues and the latest advancements in thyroid surgery.

We believe that focusing solely on thyroid surgery allows us to provide the highest level of expertise and the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our team works seamlessly together, ensuring that each patient’s surgical journey is as smooth, safe, and effective as possible. We take the time to thoroughly explain every aspect of the process, from diagnosis to recovery, so that patients feel confident and well-prepared for their treatment.

In short, our single-minded focus on thyroid surgery enables us to deliver world-class care that is both precise and compassionate, ensuring the best possible results for every patient.

What do you want patients to know about thyroid surgery and recovery?

What I want patients to know about thyroid surgery and recovery is that, while the process can feel overwhelming, it’s typically very manageable with the right care and support. Thyroid surgery is a routine and safe procedure, particularly when performed by an experienced surgeon, and most patients experience positive outcomes.

Before surgery, I take the time to explain the procedure in detail, including what to expect and how we will work together to minimize any risks. Thyroid surgery often involves the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland, and it is generally performed through a small incision in the neck. For most patients, the surgery is minimally invasive, and the recovery process is straightforward.

Regarding recovery, I want patients to know that the experience can vary depending on the type of surgery performed. For patients undergoing a total thyroidectomy (removal of the entire thyroid), a short hospital stay of one night is typical for observation and comfort. On the other hand, patients undergoing a thyroid lobectomy (removal of only part of the thyroid) are usually able to go home the same day, often within a few hours after surgery, as long as they’re feeling well and stable.

After surgery, patients can expect some soreness or discomfort around the neck area, which is usually short-lived and manageable with rest and over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients do not require any follow-up appointments unless they have specific questions or concerns. However, we are always readily available to answer questions or address any issues that may arise after surgery. Our team is committed to making sure you feel supported throughout your recovery.

Recovery timelines can vary, but most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks. We work closely with each patient to ensure their recovery is on track, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Most people can resume their usual routine relatively quickly, but I always encourage patients to listen to their bodies and reach out if they need anything.

In short, thyroid surgery is a very effective treatment for many thyroid conditions, and with the right care, the recovery process is usually smooth and straightforward. You’ll have the full support of our team to help you feel confident and well-cared-for throughout your entire recovery journey.

What is a typical day like for you at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery?

A typical day at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery is both busy and rewarding. I start the day by reviewing patient files and surgical schedules, then meet with my team to make sure everything is set for the day. Whether I'm performing surgery, meeting with patients for pre-op consultations, or checking in on recovery progress, I’m always focused on providing the best care possible.

I love meeting patients and getting to know them, helping to solve their thyroid-related health problems. Each patient’s story is unique, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to work together with my skilled team to find the best treatment plan for them. Whether in the operating room or in consultation, the goal is always to ensure they feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.

The days can be long, but the ability to directly improve patients’ lives is what makes every moment worth it. It’s an honor to help people regain their health and peace of mind.

If you weren’t a surgeon, what career do you think you’d pursue?

If I weren’t a surgeon, I’d probably be a teacher. I come from a family of educators, so teaching has always been something that’s close to my heart. I really enjoy explaining things and helping others understand complex ideas, whether it's a medical procedure or a concept about health. When I have the chance to teach—whether it’s guiding medical students or explaining a diagnosis to a patient—I find it incredibly rewarding.

This love for teaching influences my approach to patient care. I make it a priority to ensure my patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and what to expect during surgery and recovery. I want them to feel empowered and confident in their decisions, just like a good teacher helps students feel confident in their knowledge. For me, communication and education are key to building trust and ensuring the best possible outcomes for my patients.

Additional Resources

• Become our patient by filling out the form at this link. 
• Learn more about The Clayman Thyroid Center here. 
• Learn more about our sister surgeons at the Norman Parathyroid Center, and Carling Adrenal Center
• Learn more about the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery.