Protect vital facial function with parotid surgery at Surgical Associates Northwest. This procedure treats parotid gland tumors, chronic infections, and growths by carefully removing the affected tissue while preserving nearby facial nerves. Our experienced ENT surgeons offer precise, patient-centered care to help you heal safely.
Restore Healthy Salivary Gland Function
Parotid surgery is a specialized procedure to treat conditions affecting the parotid glands, the large salivary glands located in front of your ears. It is most often performed to remove benign or cancerous tumors, chronic infections, or abnormal growths. During surgery, your ENT surgeon carefully removes part or all of the affected gland while protecting the facial nerve, which controls facial movement. The goal is to treat the underlying problem while preserving facial function, comfort, and long-term health.
What Does Parotid Surgery Treat?
Parotid surgery treats conditions affecting the parotid glands, the largest salivary glands located just in front of and below your ears. These glands play an important role in saliva production, but they can develop tumors, infections, or abnormal growths that cause swelling, discomfort, and functional concerns. When imaging or biopsy shows a structural problem within the gland, surgery may be recommended to remove the affected tissue and protect nearby nerves.
You may benefit from parotid surgery if you are experiencing:
- A persistent lump or swelling near the jaw or ear
- Benign or cancerous parotid gland tumors
- Chronic or recurrent parotid gland infections
- Pain or pressure in the cheek or jaw area
- Facial weakness or numbness related to gland disease
Benefits of Parotid Surgery
Parotid surgery is performed to address the underlying cause of parotid gland disease while protecting facial function.
Benefits of parotid surgery may include:
- Removal of benign or cancerous tumors
- Relief from ongoing swelling, pain, or pressure
- Preservation of facial nerve function and movement
- Prevention of disease progression or complications
- Improved comfort and long-term quality of life
Your Parotid Surgery Experience
Your parotid surgery experience starts with a detailed consultation. You review imaging such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans, along with biopsy results if needed, to confirm the type and location of the parotid mass. Your ENT surgeon explains whether a superficial or total parotidectomy is recommended and maps out the course of the facial nerve, which passes directly through the gland.
On the day of surgery, you are placed under general anesthesia. A curved incision is made in front of the ear and along the natural crease of the neck. The surgeon carefully identifies and monitors the facial nerve using nerve-monitoring equipment, then removes the affected portion of the gland while preserving healthy tissue. Small drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup, and the incision is closed to heal with minimal scarring.
Parotid Surgery FAQs
Is Parotid Surgery Always Done for Cancer?
No. Most parotid tumors are noncancerous. However, even benign tumors are usually removed because they can slowly enlarge, cause facial nerve compression, or change over time. Surgery allows your surgeon to fully evaluate and treat the problem before complications develop.
What Is the Facial Nerve, and Why Is It Important?
The facial nerve runs directly through the parotid gland and controls the movement of your face, including smiling, blinking, and raising your eyebrows. During surgery, your surgeon identifies and monitors this nerve to protect facial movement while removing the affected gland tissue.
Will I Have Facial Weakness After Surgery?
Temporary facial weakness can occur due to nerve irritation or swelling, especially with larger tumors. In most cases, this improves as healing progresses. Permanent facial weakness is uncommon when surgery is performed by an experienced ENT surgeon.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Parotid Surgery?
Initial healing usually takes one to two weeks, with swelling and tightness gradually improving over time. You may have a temporary drain for a short period after surgery. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, depending on the extent of surgery.
Will There Be a Visible Scar?
The incision is placed along natural skin creases in front of the ear and neck to help minimize visibility. Over time, the scar typically fades and becomes less noticeable. Your surgeon will give you instructions to support proper healing and scar care.
Why Choose Surgical Associates Northwest?
Surgical Associates Northwest is a trusted ENT practice that has been serving the South King County community for more than 40 years. Our surgeons are known for their attentive, patient-centered care, taking the time to listen, explain your diagnosis clearly, and guide you through every step of parotid surgery. If you are facing a parotid gland condition, please schedule a consultation for parotid surgery in Auburn or Federal Way, WA, today.
