What to Know About Parotid Tumor Surgery and Facial Nerve Safety

 

Parotid tumor surgery is a common treatment for tumors that grow in the parotid gland. The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland and is located in front of the ear. Tumors in this gland can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Surgery is often needed to remove the tumor and protect nearby structures, especially the facial nerve.



What Is the Parotid Gland and Why Do Tumors Develop?

The parotid gland produces saliva, which helps in chewing and digestion. A tumor develops when cells in the gland grow in an abnormal way.

Parotid gland tumor causes are not always clear, but possible reasons include:

  • Cell changes over time
  • Past radiation exposure
  • Genetic factors
  • Smoking in some cases

Most parotid tumors are benign, but all need medical evaluation.

What Are the Common Symptoms of a Parotid Tumor?

Many people notice a slow-growing lump near the ear or jaw.

Parotid tumor symptoms and signs may include:

  • A painless swelling near the ear
  • Facial weakness or numbness
  • Pain in the jaw or ear
  • Trouble opening the mouth

If facial weakness is present, it may suggest a more serious tumor.

How Is a Parotid Tumor Diagnosed Before Surgery?

Doctors use several tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Parotid tumor diagnosis before surgery usually includes:

  • Physical examination
  • Ultrasound or MRI scan
  • CT scan in some cases
  • Fine needle biopsy to check tumor cells

These tests help decide if surgery is needed and how much of the gland should be removed.

What Is Parotid Tumor Surgery and How Is It Done?

Parotid tumor surgery means removing part or all of the parotid gland that contains the tumor.

Types of parotid tumor surgery procedures include:

  • Superficial parotidectomy (outer part removal)
  • Total parotidectomy (entire gland removal)

The facial nerve runs through the gland, so surgeons work carefully to protect it.

How Is the Facial Nerve Protected During Parotid Tumor Surgery?

The facial nerve controls facial movement like smiling and blinking.

Facial nerve protection during parotid tumor surgery is done by:

  • Identifying the nerve before tumor removal
  • Using nerve monitoring during surgery
  • Removing the tumor slowly and safely

In some cases, temporary facial weakness may happen, but it often improves over time.

What Are the Risks and Complications of Parotid Tumor Surgery?

Like any surgery, there are risks, but most patients recover well.

Possible risks of parotid tumor surgery include:

  • Temporary or permanent facial weakness
  • Swelling or infection
  • Saliva collection under the skin
  • Numbness around the ear

Serious problems are uncommon when surgery is done by experienced surgeons.

What Is the Recovery Process After Parotid Tumor Surgery?

Recovery depends on the type of surgery and tumor.

Recovery after parotid tumor surgery usually involves:

  • Hospital stay of 1 to 2 days
  • Drain removal after a few days
  • Mild pain managed with medicine
  • Normal activities after 2 to 3 weeks

Most patients return to daily life without long-term problems.

Is Parotid Tumor Surgery Always Successful?

Surgery is very effective for most benign tumors and many cancerous tumors.

Success rate of parotid tumor surgery is high when:

  • Tumor is found early
  • Facial nerve is preserved
  • Follow-up care is done properly

Some cancer cases may need radiation therapy after surgery.

When Should You See a Doctor for Parotid Swelling?

Any swelling near the ear or jaw should be checked.

When to see a doctor for parotid gland tumor:

  • Lump growing over time
  • Facial weakness or pain
  • Difficulty chewing or opening mouth

Early treatment leads to better outcomes.

Where Can Patients Receive Treatment?

Parotid tumor surgery should be performed in a center with experienced surgical teams and proper nerve monitoring.

Patients seeking evaluation and treatment may contact:

Alpha Surgical Group
9735 Wilshire Boulevard,
Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA

 

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