Parotid Gland & Parotid Surgery

The surgery to remove the parotid lump is called a parotidectomy. This involves removing either part or all of the parotid gland. The operation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic, which means that you will be asleep throughout the procedure. A skin incision (cut) is made, which runs from the front of the ear curving towards the back of the ear just to the level of the hair line. Most surgeons differ in making the skin cut and tend to extend the cut into the neck. This is nearly the same incision as that used in face-lift surgery and has excellent cosmetic results. At the end of the operation a small drain (plastic tube) is placed through the skin to facilitate drainage of blood and tissue fluids. The skin cut is closed with stitches and the drain is removed in 24-48 hours, when you will be able to go home. Stitches will be removed usually after 6 days.

In the following section some of the common and serious risks of parotidectomy are discussed briefly. Please note that the chances of these happening are very low.

The facial nerve that moves the muscles which help the eyes to close and the mouth to smile and eat runs through the parotid gland. We always diligently identify and preserve the nerve. In most cases, the nerve works normally after surgery. Occasionally, however, where the lump has been very close to the nerve, a temporary weakness of the face may occur. This usually lasts for a few weeks and then recovers back to normal. Permanent damage, resulting in permanent weakness of the face, is rare in surgery of the benign (non cancerous) tumours.

Rarely, blood can collect beneath the skin resulting in swelling in the operated area. It is also normal for small quantities saliva to leak from the cut surface of the gland and cause it to swell. Most often this blood and saliva is mopped up by our body and therefore the swelling is self limiting. Occasionally, however, it may be necessary to return to the operating theatre to rectify the problem.

The nerves that are responsible for appreciating sensation on the face, side of the neck and the ear lie just under the skin and are damaged to a variable degree. This transpires as numbness of the ear, particularly felt in the ear lobe and to a variable degree on the side of the face and neck. One is more likely to be aware of it when wearing earrings and whilst shaving in men. Generally speaking, with time the numbness and altered sensation improves.

You may notice some hollowing under the skin at the back of the jawbone from where the gland and swelling has been removed. This is usually mild and is not a concern to the majority of patients. There are various ways of treating this should it become troublesome.

Occasionally, you may notice that the cheek skin on the operated side becomes flushed and sweaty, particularly associated with eating or thought of food. Should this occur and become troublesome, it can generally be treated by the application of simple roll-on antiperspirant and very occasionally further surgery may be required.

You may notice pain and stiffness in the area of the neck and shoulder. This recovers quickly. Gentle daily massage with your regular skin cream starting two to three weeks after surgery helps to supple the scar and eases the discomfort.