When Is Parotid Surgery Needed?

• Benign parotid tumors (pleomorphic adenoma, Warthin’s tumor)
• Suspicion or diagnosis of parotid gland cancer
• Recurrent or chronic parotid gland infections
• Obstruction of salivary ducts due to stones or strictures
• Painful or rapidly growing lumps in the parotid region

Types of Parotid Surgery

1. Superficial Parotidectomy

Removal of the tumor or diseased tissue from the outer (superficial) lobe while preserving the facial nerve. Common for benign tumors.

2. Total Parotidectomy

Removal of both superficial and deep lobes of the parotid gland, usually required for malignant or extensive tumors.

3. Partial Parotidectomy

Selective removal of the affected portion only, preserving healthy gland tissue when possible.

4. Extracapsular Dissection

A minimally invasive option for small benign tumors located away from the facial nerve.

Symptoms Suggesting Parotid Gland Disease

• Lump or swelling in front of or below the ear
• Facial asymmetry or new-onset facial weakness
• Pain in the jaw, ear, or neck region
• Dry mouth or difficulty swallowing (rare)
• Recurrent salivary gland infections

Common Causes

• Benign glandular growths (most common)
• Smoking-related Warthin’s tumor
• Viral or bacterial infections affecting the gland
• Salivary duct blockages due to stones
• Radiation exposure (rare cause of malignancy)

Diagnosis & Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis helps determine the type of surgery required and ensures safe facial nerve preservation.

• Clinical examination of the parotid region and facial nerve function
• Ultrasound imaging of the gland and surrounding structures
• FNAC (Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology) to identify tumor type
• MRI or CT scan for deeper or complex tumors
• Discussion regarding surgical risks and need for nerve monitoring

How Parotid Surgery Is Performed

Parotidectomy is performed under general anesthesia. The incision is designed along natural skin creases (modified Blair incision) to ensure a cosmetically pleasing result.

• Careful dissection to locate and preserve the facial nerve and its branches
• Removal of the diseased portion of the gland
• Use of nerve monitoring to reduce risk of nerve injury
• Placement of a drain if necessary to prevent fluid collection

Surgery duration varies with tumor size and depth but is generally safe with an experienced head-neck surgeon.

Possible Risks & Complications

• Temporary or rarely permanent facial nerve weakness
• Numbness of ear or face (usually temporary)
• Salivary fistula or seroma formation
• Frey’s syndrome (sweating over cheek while eating)
• Infection or bleeding (uncommon)

Recovery & Aftercare

• Most patients can resume normal activity in 1–2 weeks
• Drain removal usually within 24–48 hours
• Scar care instructions to improve cosmetic outcome
• Regular follow-up to monitor nerve recovery and healing

Why Choose Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan?

Parotid surgery requires expert anatomical knowledge and delicate nerve preservation. Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan provides safe, precise, and cosmetically superior parotidectomy with advanced techniques.

• Expertise in facial nerve–preserving parotid surgeries
• Use of intraoperative nerve monitoring technology
• Minimally visible incisions with high cosmetic value
• Comprehensive postoperative care and follow-up

If you notice a persistent swelling near the ear or jaw, facial weakness, or recurrent salivary infections, schedule a consultation for accurate diagnosis and expert surgical management.