Parotidectomy

What Is Parotid Gland Removal Surgery (Parotidectomy)?

Parotidectomy surgery (also known as parotid gland removal) is required when there is a swelling in the parotid gland.  The parotid gland, which lies behind the jawbone in front of the ear, is responsible for saliva production in the mouth.  Many facial nerves pass through the parotid gland.     

Parotid gland removal surgery is performed under general anesthesia.  The doctor makes an "S" shaped incision in front of the earlobe down to the neck.  Thereafter, he or she removes the swollen area of the parotid gland.  A thin plastic drainage tube is placed in the wound to remove excess fluids, and next the doctor closes up the incision.  The wound normally heals quickly, leaving behind a faint scar.

Patients typically feel pain and discomfort for 24 hours after parotidectomy surgery, but by the end of a week, the wound is normally pain-free.  The drainage tube is removed 2-3 days after the surgery.  Most of the swelling also resolves by this time.  Stitches or clips used during parotid gland removal surgery are usually removed 5-7 days after the procedure.