After Treatment

The recovery from treatment for thymoma can vary depending on the stage of thymoma and the extent of treatment. In general, the recovery is faster for people treated with surgery alone when compared with people who received a combination of therapies.

After treatment for thymoma ends, talk to your doctor about developing a follow-up care plan. Follow-up care depends on the stage of thymoma treated. Regular visits to the doctor and follow-up CT scans are often recommended, particularly for more advanced stages of thymoma. Follow-up physical examinations and regular CT scans may be part of lifetime care for some people.

There may be some risk for a second malignancy (another type of cancer) particularly in people who have received radiation therapy. In these situations, there is a small risk of a new type of cancer developing many years later in the area treated by radiation therapy.

People recovering from thymoma or thymic carcinoma are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health, such as maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and having recommended cancer screening tests. Talk with your doctor to develop a plan that is best for your needs. Moderate physical activity can help rebuild your strength and energy level. Your doctor can help you create an appropriate exercise plan based upon your needs, physical abilities, and fitness level. Learn more about Healthy Living After Cancer

To learn about the terms used in this section, read the Cancer.Net Feature: Cancer Terms to Know: After Treatment.