Type | Parotidectomy | Salivary Gland Surgery |
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Additional information | In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed if cancer is suspected to have spread. After the tumour has been removed, the incision is sutured and a small drain will be placed to prevent fluid buildup. | If the surgeon suspects that the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, the surgeon will proceed to remove them as well. Once the growth or tumour has been excised, the incision will be sutured with a small drain inserted to prevent fluid buildup. |
A parotidectomy and salivary gland surgery offer several benefits, including:
Some of the conditions that can be treated with parotidectomy and salivary gland surgery include:
At NC Tan Surgery, our parotidectomy and salivary gland surgery begins with a comprehensive consultation and diagnostic process. Our specialist will thoroughly review your medical history, perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests to accurately evaluate the size and location of the obstructions.
In the event our specialist suspects a tumour, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be conducted to determine whether it is benign or malignant. Once our specialist has obtained all the relevant information, it will facilitate our specialist in outlining a detailed and effective treatment plan.
On the day of the procedure, you will be administered general anaesthesia before our surgeon carefully removes the affected portion of your parotid or salivary gland. Although the surgical procedures are slightly invasive, rest assured, our surgeon is equipped with the relevant skills and experience to perform the procedure with precision, aiming to minimise risks. A procedure generally takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity and size of the gland being removed.
Following the procedure, you will be closely monitored to ensure proper recovery as well as the functionality of the facial nerve. Additionally, you will also receive detailed aftercare instructions, such as:
While most patients are able to resume their daily routines within a few weeks, it is important to observe the proper aftercare to ensure the surgical site heals properly without any complications.
Both parotidectomy and salivary gland surgery are typically one-time procedures. This is due to the fact that the procedures are comprehensive, effectively addressing the medical issue in a single operation. However, follow-up treatments, such as radiation therapy (for cancer patients), are necessary to ensure complete eradication of cancer cells.
If you, or your loved ones, have been diagnosed with a parotid gland tumour or are experiencing symptoms of salivary gland stones, contact us to schedule an appointment. Booking an appointment brings you one step closer to receiving expert evaluation and personalised treatment options.
Most patients can return to light work in about two weeks, depending on their recovery. Strenuous activities should be avoided for around 4 weeks.
While nerve monitoring minimises the risk of permanent damage, temporary facial weakness may occur after parotidectomy and usually resolves within a few months.
Incisions are made along natural skin creases or concealed near the ear or neck to reduce visible scarring. Over time, scars typically fade.
The surgery usually takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity and size of the tumour or condition being treated.
General anaesthesia is administered during both parotidectomy and other salivary gland surgeries to ensure you are fully asleep and pain-free.
In a parotidectomy, the remaining salivary glands can generally compensate for saliva production. Extensive gland removal may lead to mouth dryness, which can be treated with medication and hydration.
1 Farrer Park Station Road
#14-02 Connexion Singapore 217562
Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm
Sunday & PHs Closed