Understanding Parotid Tumor Surgery: What You Need to Know A parotid tumor is a growth that forms in the parotid glands, which are the largest of the salivary glands located in front of the ears. While most parotid tumors are benign, some can be malignant. When a tumor is detected, surgery is often the recommended treatment to remove it. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect from parotid tumor surgery.
Types of Parotid Tumors The majority of parotid tumors are benign, with the most common being pleomorphic adenoma, which usually grows slowly and doesn’t spread to other parts of the body. Malignant tumors, though less common, can be more aggressive and require a more extensive surgical approach. The Surgical Procedure Parotid tumor surgery typically involves removing the tumor along with a small portion of the surrounding tissue to ensure complete removal. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and may take a couple of hours depending on the tumor’s size and location. One of the key challenges during surgery is to preserve the facial nerve, which runs through the parotid gland and controls facial movements. Surgeons take great care to avoid damaging this nerve, as it can result in facial weakness or paralysis. In some cases, if the tumor is close to the nerve, a more cautious, step-by-step approach is required. Post-Surgery Care Recovery from parotid tumor surgery usually takes a few weeks. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort initially. Most individuals can return to normal activities within a few weeks, though they should avoid strenuous activities to prevent complications. While parotid tumor surgery is highly effective, regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor for any recurrence, especially if the tumor was malignant. Overall, with proper surgical care and attention, the prognosis for patients with parotid tumors is generally favorable.
Alpha Surgical Group 9735 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA (310)-657-2253 https://www.alphasurg.com/ https://www.alphasurg.com/asg-parotidectomy/
