What to Expect During Parotid Tumor Surgery and Recovery

 

Parotid tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the parotid gland. The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland. It is located in front of the ear and extends down to the angle of the jaw. This gland helps produce saliva, which supports chewing and digestion.

During early development before birth, the parotid gland forms at the same time as lymph nodes and the facial nerve. Because of this, the gland is closely connected with the facial nerve, which controls facial movement. This makes parotid tumor surgery with facial nerve preservation very important and delicate.

 

What Is a Parotid Tumor and Is It Cancerous?

A parotid tumor is a growth inside the parotid gland. About 85% of parotid tumors are benign (non-cancerous). Around 15% are malignant (cancerous).

The most common benign tumor is called pleomorphic adenoma, also known as a benign mixed tumor. It usually has clear edges and does not invade nearby tissues. However, it keeps growing over time. If left untreated, it may rarely turn into cancer. Because of this risk, doctors often recommend early removal of benign parotid tumor.

Another common benign tumor is Warthin’s tumor. It is usually slow growing and may occur on both sides of the face. Surgery is often curative, and it rarely becomes cancer.

Malignant parotid tumors are less common but require careful treatment planning. These tumors may spread to nearby tissue or lymph nodes.

What Are the Symptoms That Require Parotid Tumor Surgery?

Many patients first notice a painless lump near the ear or jaw. Other possible signs include:

• Swelling in front of the ear
• Facial weakness or drooping
• Pain in the area
• Numbness
• Difficulty opening the mouth

If the facial nerve is affected, weakness on one side of the face may appear. This is why parotid gland tumor symptoms and diagnosis should be checked early by a specialist.

Doctors usually perform a physical exam, imaging tests like MRI or CT scan, and sometimes a needle biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

What Is Parotidectomy and How Is It Performed?

Parotidectomy is the surgical removal of part or all of the parotid gland. The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the tumor.

There are two common types:

• Superficial parotidectomy – removal of the outer part of the gland
• Total parotidectomy – removal of the entire gland

The biggest concern during surgery is protecting the facial nerve. Surgeons carefully identify and preserve the nerve during the procedure. This is why parotidectomy surgery for benign and malignant tumors must be performed by experienced surgeons.

In some cases, modern techniques combine parotid surgery with cosmetic approaches, such as facelift-style incisions. This can help reduce visible scarring and improve appearance after healing.

What Are the Risks of Parotid Tumor Surgery?

Like any surgery, parotid tumor removal has some risks. These may include:

• Temporary or permanent facial weakness
• Numbness around the ear
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Salivary leakage

One specific condition after surgery is Frey’s syndrome. This causes sweating in the cheek area while eating. It can be managed with medical treatment if needed.

Choosing an experienced surgical team lowers the risk of complications during safe parotid tumor removal procedure.

How Long Is Recovery After Parotid Tumor Surgery?

Most patients go home within one or two days after surgery. A small drain may be placed temporarily to remove extra fluid.

Swelling and mild discomfort are common in the first week. Stitches are usually removed within 7 to 10 days. Many patients return to normal activities within two to three weeks.

If facial weakness occurs, it is often temporary and improves over time. Regular follow-up visits are important to monitor healing and check for recurrence.

When Is Surgery Necessary for Benign Tumors?

Even though most parotid tumors are benign, surgery is usually recommended. The reasons include:

• Continuous growth of the tumor
• Risk of future cancer change (in pleomorphic adenoma)
• Cosmetic concerns
• Pressure on nearby structures

Early treatment for slow growing parotid gland tumor makes surgery easier and reduces complications.

Are Parotid Tumors Common in Children?

Parotid tumors are less common in children. When they do occur, hemangiomas (blood vessel tumors) are the most frequent type. These may also appear in other parts of the body.

Other rare conditions include benign lymphoepithelial lesions, which are more common in people with immune system problems. Surgery is considered if the mass grows, causes discomfort, or raises concern for cancer.

How to Choose the Right Specialist for Parotid Tumor Surgery?

Because the facial nerve runs through the parotid gland, surgery requires skill and experience. Patients should look for surgeons who are trained in advanced parotid tumor surgery techniques and facial nerve protection.

Careful planning, proper imaging, and detailed surgical approach improve safety and results.

Parotid tumor surgery is the main treatment for both benign and malignant tumors of the parotid gland. Early diagnosis, proper evaluation, and expert surgical care are important for good outcomes and facial nerve safety.

For patients seeking evaluation and surgical treatment, care is available at Alpha Surgical Group, located at 9735 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA.