Salivary Gland (Parotid) Tumor Surgery: A Complete Guide

Salivary gland tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the salivary glands, most commonly in the parotid gland, which is located in front of the ear and extends to the upper neck. While most parotid tumors are benign (non-cancerous), some can be malignant and require timely surgical treatment.

What is Parotid Tumor Surgery?

Parotid tumor surgery involves the removal of the tumor from the parotid gland while preserving vital structures, especially the facial nerve, which controls facial movements. The main objective is to completely remove the tumor and prevent recurrence while maintaining facial function.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of parotid tumors is often unknown, but risk factors include:

• Radiation exposure to head and neck

• Smoking

• Increasing age

• Occupational exposure to certain chemicals

Symptoms of Parotid Tumors

Common symptoms include:

• Painless swelling near the ear or jaw

• Facial asymmetry

• Numbness or weakness of face

• Difficulty in opening mouth

• Pain in advanced cases

Any swelling in the parotid region should be evaluated by a specialist.

Types of Parotid Tumor Surgery

1. Superficial Parotidectomy

Removal of the superficial part of the gland. Most common for benign tumors.

2. Total Parotidectomy

Removal of entire gland, usually for malignant tumors.

3. Radical Parotidectomy

Removal of gland with involved facial nerve (rare, advanced cases).

4. Neck Dissection

Performed if cancer has spread to lymph nodes.

Facial Nerve Preservation

Modern parotid surgery uses:

• Facial nerve monitoring

• Microsurgical techniques

• Magnification systems

These greatly reduce the risk of permanent facial weakness.

Recovery After Parotid Surgery

Patients usually experience:

• Hospital stay: 2–5 days

• Mild facial swelling

• Temporary facial weakness (improves over time)

• Small surgical scar

Most return to normal activities within 2–3 weeks.

Risks and Complications

Possible risks include:

• Temporary or permanent facial weakness

• Numbness of ear

• Salivary fistula

• Frey’s syndrome (sweating while eating)

These are uncommon when surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon.

Success Rate

• Benign tumors: Excellent cure rate

• Malignant tumors: Good outcomes with early surgery + radiation if needed

Why Choose a Specialist Surgeon?

Parotid surgery is technically demanding. Specialist care ensures:

• Maximum tumor clearance

• Facial nerve safety

• Minimal scarring

• Lower recurrence rates

Final Thoughts

Salivary gland (parotid) tumor surgery today is safe, precise and highly successful. Early diagnosis and expert surgical care provide the best chance of complete recovery with preserved facial function.