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.
