What is the process for Salivary Gland Surgery in Kyiv?

Ishani

I’m planning salivary gland surgery in Kyiv. Can someone explain the steps and recovery?

Drriya

Hello, and thank you for your question.

Salivary gland surgery is a well-established procedure typically performed to remove a tumor, stone, or chronic infection affecting one of the salivary glands—most commonly the parotid, submandibular, or sublingual gland.

General Steps of the Surgery:
Evaluation and Imaging:
Prior to surgery, imaging such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI is used to assess the size and position of the lesion. A fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy may also be done if a tumor is suspected.

Anesthesia:
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.

Surgical Approach:

For parotid gland surgery, an incision is typically made near the ear, often along natural skin creases for cosmetic reasons.

For submandibular gland, an incision is made under the jawline.

In minimally invasive cases (such as stone removal), a ductal approach through the mouth may be used.

Nerve Preservation:
Special care is taken to identify and preserve nearby facial nerves, especially during parotid surgery, as they control facial movement.

Closure and Drain Placement:
The incision is closed with sutures and a small drain may be placed temporarily to reduce swelling or fluid buildup.

Recovery:
Hospital Stay: Often a 1-day stay or even outpatient, depending on the case.

Discomfort: Mild to moderate swelling and discomfort are expected and well-managed with medication.

Drain Removal: Usually within 24–48 hours.

Stitches: Removed or dissolved in about 7–10 days.

Activity: Light activity can resume quickly, but strenuous exertion should be avoided for 1–2 weeks.

Facial Numbness or Weakness: Temporary in some cases, especially after parotid surgery; it typically improves over weeks to months.

Follow-Up: Regular postoperative visits are essential to monitor healing and ensure no complications.

Key Considerations:
Choose a surgeon with expertise in head and neck or salivary gland procedures.

Ask about intraoperative nerve monitoring, which helps reduce nerve injury risk.

Discuss pathology results postoperatively if a tumor is removed.

DrPuja

Hello, and thank you for your question.

Salivary gland surgery is commonly performed to treat issues like blocked ducts, chronic infections, cysts, or tumors—both benign and malignant. Planning this surgery in Kyiv is a practical decision, as the city is home to several hospitals and specialists who offer advanced head and neck surgical care at competitive rates.

Here’s a clear overview of what to expect:

🩺 Steps Involved in Salivary Gland Surgery:

Initial Consultation & Imaging
A head and neck specialist (often an ENT surgeon) will perform a physical exam and order imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI) to identify the exact location and nature of the issue.

A biopsy may be performed if a tumor is suspected.

Surgical Planning
Depending on the affected gland (parotid, submandibular, or sublingual), the approach will vary:

Parotidectomy (parotid gland) is more complex due to proximity to facial nerves.

Submandibular gland excision is often done through a small neck incision.

Minimally invasive sialendoscopy may be used for stone removal without gland excision.

Surgery Day
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

Duration: Usually 1–3 hours.

If facial nerves are at risk (especially in parotid surgery), nerve monitoring is used.

A drain may be placed to prevent fluid buildup.

Immediate Post-Operative Care
Monitoring in recovery for a few hours or overnight.

Mild swelling, bruising, or temporary facial weakness can occur depending on the gland and approach.

Pain is usually manageable with medication.

⏳ Recovery Process:
Days 1–3:
Rest and light activity.

Soft food and hydration recommended.

Keep surgical site clean and dry.

Week 1:
Drain (if placed) is usually removed.

Swelling begins to reduce.

Resume light daily activities.

Week 2–4:
Stitches are removed (if not dissolvable).

Most patients return to work after 1–2 weeks.

You may experience mild tightness or numbness around the incision.

Long-Term:
Regular follow-ups to check healing and ensure no recurrence.

If a tumor was removed, a pathology report will guide any additional treatment.

Facial nerve function (if affected) typically returns within weeks to months if not permanently damaged.

🏥 Trusted Hospitals in Kyiv for Salivary Gland Surgery:
Boris Clinic – Private, English-speaking, high surgical standards.

Dobrobut Medical Network – Known for ENT and head-neck procedures.

Kyiv City Clinical Hospital No. 12 – Offers advanced surgical care with more affordable pricing.

Feofaniya Clinical Hospital – Government hospital with experienced head and neck surgeons.

If you're accessing this through MHN, I recommend requesting a referral or consultation through our platform to ensure:

Transparent pricing,

Access to qualified specialists, and

Post-surgical follow-up coordination.

Please feel free to reach out if you have questions about specific hospitals or if you’d like support choosing the right facility in Kyiv.

Wishing you a safe and smooth recovery ahead.

Amit

Here’s a clear, step-by-step explanation of salivary gland surgery and the recovery process, tailored for someone planning the procedure in Kyiv:

Salivary Gland Surgery: Steps
Preoperative Assessment

Before surgery, you’ll have a medical evaluation, blood tests, and possibly imaging (like ultrasound or MRI) to determine the exact location and type of gland issue (tumor, stone, infection).

You may be asked to stop eating and drinking several hours before surgery.

Anesthesia

Most major salivary gland surgeries (parotid, submandibular, sublingual) are performed under general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and feel no pain.

Surgical Procedure

Incision: The surgeon makes a cut near the affected gland. For the parotid gland, the incision is typically in front of the ear and along the jaw; for the submandibular gland, it’s under the jaw; for the sublingual gland, inside the mouth.

Removal: The surgeon carefully removes all or part of the affected gland, sometimes along with surrounding tissue if there’s a tumor. Special care is taken to avoid damaging important nerves that control facial movement, sensation, or tongue function.

Lymph Nodes: If cancer is present or suspected, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.

Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or surgical glue. Sometimes, a small drain is placed to prevent fluid buildup.

Immediate Postoperative Care

You will be monitored as you wake up from anesthesia.

Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days, depending on the type and complexity of surgery.

Recovery Process
First Days After Surgery

Swelling and Bruising: Some swelling, bruising, and mild pain around the incision site are normal.

Drain: If a drain was placed, it’s usually removed before you go home.

Diet: You may start with soft foods and gradually return to a normal diet as tolerated.

Wound Care: Keep the incision clean and dry. Follow your surgeon’s instructions for cleaning and dressing changes.

Pain Management

Pain is usually managed with prescribed medications. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen unless your doctor says it’s safe.

Activity

Light activity is encouraged, but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for at least 1–2 weeks.

Gentle neck movements and deep breathing exercises can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.

Follow-Up

Stitches are often removed about a week after surgery, unless dissolvable sutures were used.

Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Full Recovery

Most people return to light activities within 1–2 weeks and normal activities in 3–4 weeks.

Complete healing may take up to 4–6 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and your overall health.

Some numbness or weakness (especially if nerves were involved) may persist for weeks or months but often improves over time.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.

Stay hydrated and eat nutritious, soft foods.

Avoid smoking and alcohol during recovery.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, fever, or discharge) or if pain worsens.

In summary:
Salivary gland surgery in Kyiv follows international standards: you’ll undergo a thorough evaluation, have the procedure under anesthesia, and receive careful postoperative care. Most patients recover well within 2–6 weeks, with a gradual return to normal activities. Always follow your surgeon’s instructions and attend follow-up visits for the best outcome.