I Have a Mass in My Parotid Gland
Salivary gland tumors most commonly originate from the parotid gland located in front of the ear. About 80% of the tumors found in this gland are benign. However, they cause a mass in the gland due to uncontrolled cell proliferation. The resulting mass not only creates a cosmetic concern but also carries the risk of developing into cancer in the future. Moreover, even benign masses can cause facial nerve paralysis (also known as the nerve that controls facial muscles) due to the pressure they exert.
Therefore, the treatment for parotid gland tumors is definitively surgical.

What Kind of Surgery Should I Undergo?
The surgery, known as a parotidectomy, is a comprehensive procedure that includes surrounding parotid tissue. It is absolutely not recommended to remove the mass alone, as this can lead to the spread and recurrence of the tumor in the future. If the tumor is benign, a portion of the parotid gland may be preserved. However, if cancer is present, the entire gland should be removed. In cancer cases, additional neck surgery (cleaning of the lymph nodes) or supplementary treatments (radiotherapy, chemotherapy) may be required.

What Are the Risks of Surgery?
The most significant risk in parotid gland surgery is nerve damage. The facial nerve, which controls the facial muscles, extends through this salivary gland like tree branches. Depending on the proximity of the tumor to the facial nerve, temporary and/or permanent nerve paralysis (facial paralysis) can occur. The risk of facial paralysis is below 5%, especially when performed by experienced surgeons. There is a 90% chance that any paralysis will be temporary. If the paralysis is temporary, full recovery of functions can take 3-9 months. It is recommended that this surgery be performed by experienced head and neck surgeons. Using a nerve monitor during surgery can be beneficial in this procedure.

Will I Have a Scar on My Face?
The skin incision for a parotidectomy can be made along wrinkle lines or hidden within the ear to create the least visible scar. Various aesthetic stitching methods are available for this purpose. My experience involves starting surgery with personalized incision lines. However, as with any surgery, scars will be present. The important thing is to choose the smallest and neatest incision methods possible.

Will I Have a Permanent Depression on My Face?
After parotid gland surgery, a depression may remain in front of the ear and at the corner of the jaw due to tissue loss. In suitable patients, I have achieved positive and pleasing results using the fat injection technique to eliminate this depression. If desired, the depression can be prevented in the same session with a hidden incision made inside the navel.