Parotid Surgery from Chicago's Renowned Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Gary Wiesman
The parotid gland is one of the three major salivary glands in the body that secretes saliva near the upper teeth and helps aid in digestion, oral lubrication, hygiene, and protection against tooth decay. This gland is susceptible to benign or malignant tumors that appear as a lump in front of or below the ear. Parotid gland tumors have often spread from other areas of the body to enter the gland through the lymphatic system and may include lymphomas, melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma.
While most of these tumors are benign, they require thorough treatment to prevent growth eliminate any abnormal cells. The parotid gland is also at risk for infection or a blocked saliva gland that interrupts normal functioning.
Treatment of these serious parotid gland conditions may require surgical removal of the gland in order to reduce the risk of complications. Removal of the parotid gland, known as parotidectomy, is performed under general anesthesia and may require a short hospital stay as well. Depending on the size of the tumor, a partial or total parotidectomy may be performed.
Parotidectomy Procedure
During a parotidectomy, an incision is made in front of the ear, similar to the incision used during a facelift. It is important to identify the facial nerve during this procedure and carefully work around it in order to reduce a patient's risk of facial paralysis. You can reduce your risk of complications by choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Wiesman to perform your procedure.
Parotidectomy may take several hours to perform, depending on the type of removal and the size and location of the patient's individual tumor. If the tumor is benign, surgery is usually the only treatment required and provides complete removal with only a minimal risk of recurrence. Cancerous tumors will likely need to be treated with radiation therapy after surgery to ensure that all cancerous cells have been removed.
Parotid Surgery FAQs
If you have been told that you need parotid surgery, or you suspect that you will require this procedure, Dr. Wiesman is ready to answer your questions when you come to our office for your consultation. In the meantime, you can learn more about the road ahead by reading the following list of FAQs. Feel free to call us if you would like further explanation on anything you discover here.
Will I Have Visible Scars after My Surgery?
Dr. Wiesman is a skilled surgeon who always considers the aesthetic ramifications of any procedure he performs. He will do is best to make incisions in a way that will minimize visible scarring so you can continue to put your best face forward.
Some patients, however, may have noticeable scarring. Dr. Wiesman will help you to have realistic expectations based on the incisions he plans to make.
Other than Tumors, What Reasons Are There for Performing a Parotidectomy?
Tumors, whether they are benign or malignant, are the most common reason for performing a parotidectomy. However, the procedure might also be necessary if you have salivary gland stones, which are calcium deposits that can build up in the gland and block the flow of saliva. The stones can cause recurrent infections and swelling, so removing the gland may be the best way to provide long-term relief.
A severe infection is another possible indication for parotidectomy surgery.
What Happens Before a Parotidectomy?
There are a few steps that typically occur prior to a parotidectomy:
- Wiesman will review your medical history. Your medications and medical conditions may affect how he plans the surgery and how well you will recover afterward.
- Images will be taken. You might need to undergo an MRI or CT scan so your surgical team can identify the location of your facial nerve and become aware of other details that might have a bearing on your procedure.
- A biopsy may be performed. If you have a tumor, it might be necessary to collect a sample of cells from it so you can find out whether the tumor is cancerous.
- You will receive instructions. You may need to temporarily stop using some of your medications or take other steps before your surgery to reduce your risk of complications.
Will the Removal of My Parotid Gland Cause Dry Mouth?
A dry mouth, which is characterized by a lack of saliva, is at a heightened risk of cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health issues. Fortunately, the removal of one salivary gland usually does not substantially decrease saliva production. You should be able to maintain a healthy smile through normal means, such as thorough oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
