Objectives: To investigate how surgeons interpret the ATA 2015 and BTA 2014 guidelines for low risk well differentiated thyroid cancers (LRDTCs) and how they impact patient experiences across the UK. Design: Three nationally disseminated anonymised questionnaires. Setting: A nationwide snapshot of LRDTC management. Participants: Thyroid surgeons and their respective thyroid cancer multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) and thyroid cancer patients. Main outcome measures: The outcomes of interest were how surgeons/MDTs are managing LRDTCs and patient perspectives on ‘shared-decision-making’ and their ideal surgical management for LRDTCs. Results: 74 surgeons responded. 88% utilised BTA guidelines to assess recurrence risk. Tumour size, histology, stage T3b and central nodal involvement were important for >85%, but age (>45 years) only for 50%. In T1 (2cm), Thy5 solitary nodule, 58% supported hemi-thyroidectomy (HT), with 33% for total thyroidectomy (TT). In T2 (3cm) PTC, 54% opted for TT, with 24% favouring HT. Over 90% recommended TT for any incidentally excised microscopically positive lymph nodes. In T1a(m) multifocal micro-PTC, 63% suggested HT, but with contralateral benign nodules, 66% supported TT. 40% of patients felt ‘pros and cons’ of different managements were not fully explained. 47% felt they didn’t have significant input in their management, with 53% feeling final management was clinician’s choice. 60% preferred TT, with 80% wanting to ensure there was no cancer left and avoid recurrence. 20% preferred HT, with 46% wishing to avoid lifelong thyroxine. Conclusions: There is variation in risk assessment and management of LRDTCs nationally, with contrasting views of optimum treatment between patients and clinicians. These variations in practice are affecting patient experiences nationally.