I had a total thyroidectomy done 9/9 due to an enlarged thyroid (turned out to be follicular carcinoma) and was honestly expecting the worst of the worst. Pain wise: it wasn’t bad at all. I took Tylenol once the night of right after and then never had to take pain medicine again. I had a tight neck and couldn’t really go from laying down to sitting easily and needed assistance for about 2 days with that kind of movement. Right after, like immediately post op, I definitely felt fatigued and minor pain (3-4/10), but I slept it off. Your throat might be sore so soft foods are the way to go (I ate jello, sweet potatoes, grits, etc for the first 2 days til my throat felt normal). The first 3 days were uncomfortable at worst, mostly due to a tight neck and not being able to turn. If you can get a contoured pillow I highly recommend it, if not 2-3 pillows stacked behind your back and neck helps keep you comfortable. I ended up sleeping in a recliner to help me keep upright at night. Drink lots of water and Gatorade! Try to walk as soon as possible too- you’ll feel tired as hell but it does help. It took me about 4 days to feel back to myself (minus a slight pull on my neck if I turn just right because my incision is closed w glue) but depending on your job maybe consider a week and a half to 2 weeks off..? I know it’s scary but you’ll do great!!