About Neck Surgery
Key Highlights
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Performed by highly trained surgeons specializing in the complex anatomy of the head and neck region.Can be performed using minimally invasive techniques (e.g., endoscopic or robotic surgery) for reduced scarring and faster recovery.Aims to effectively treat a wide range of conditions from benign tumors to cancers.Focuses on preserving critical functions such as swallowing, speech, and breathing.Often involves a multidisciplinary team approach for comprehensive care, including oncologists and speech therapists.
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosed or suspected cancers of the thyroid, larynx (voice box), pharynx (throat), or salivary glands.
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter) causing breathing or swallowing difficulties or cosmetic concerns.
- Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) leading to high calcium levels.
- Persistent or recurrent infections or abscesses in the neck that do not respond to medication.
- Removal of suspicious or cancerous lymph nodes in the neck (neck dissection).
- Trauma to neck structures requiring surgical repair.
- Severe obstructive sleep apnea related to anatomical issues in the throat.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging (CT, MRI, or ultrasound), and possibly a biopsy.
- Discuss all current medications with your surgeon; you may need to stop blood thinners several days prior.
- Undergo pre-operative counseling, which may include a meeting with an anesthesiologist.
- Follow specific fasting instructions (typically no food or drink after midnight before surgery).
- Arrange for transportation home and for post-operative assistance during the initial recovery period.
- Quit smoking well in advance of surgery to improve healing and reduce complication risks.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding, infection, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Damage to nerves, which can lead to hoarseness (recurrent laryngeal nerve), shoulder weakness (spinal accessory nerve), or numbness.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or changes in voice.
- Damage to the parathyroid glands, leading to low calcium levels (hypocalcemia).
- Scarring or poor wound healing.
- Formation of a hematoma (collection of blood) or seroma (collection of fluid).
- Persistent pain or stiffness in the neck.
- Need for further surgery or treatment.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay is required for monitoring; length depends on the procedure's complexity.
- Pain and swelling are common and managed with prescribed medications.
- A drain may be placed in the incision to remove excess fluid for a day or two.
- Diet may start with clear liquids and advance to soft foods as swallowing improves.
- Specific neck movement restrictions and wound care instructions must be followed diligently.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing, review pathology results, and assess function.
- Full recovery and return to normal activities, including strenuous work, may take several weeks.
- Speech or swallowing therapy may be recommended as part of rehabilitation.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-5 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-6 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering neck surgery in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with head and neck surgery departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform neck surgery. MediFyr helps you compare head and neck surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for neck surgery compare across other countries where we have data.
Ayaan Mehta, a 42-year-old software architect...
Ayaan Mehta, a 42-year-old software architect and father of two, had been living with a persistent, dull ache in his neck for over a year. An avid runner, he initially dismissed it as a muscle strain. However, the pain intensified, radiating down his right arm with tingling and numbness in his fingers, making it difficult to type or even hold his morning coffee. An MRI revealed a large herniated disc at C5-C6, compressing the spinal nerve. His neurosurgeon, Dr. Sharma, recommended an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) to relieve the pressure and stabilize his spine. Terrified of surgery near his spinal cord, Ayaan worried about paralysis and being unable to provide for his family. The procedure went smoothly. The first week of recovery was challenging, with a rigid neck brace and pain management. But within days, the debilitating arm pain was gone. After six weeks of physiotherapy, he regained full strength and sensation. Emotionally, he transitioned from a state of chronic anxiety and helplessness to profound relief and gratitude. He is now back to running and playing with his kids, valuing his health more than ever.
Head and Neck surgeons for Neck Surgery
Explore experienced head and neck surgeons who regularly perform neck surgery and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 14 Years Experience
- Head and Neck surgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 11 Years Experience
- Head and Neck surgeon
Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore
- 13 Years Experience
- Head and Neck surgeon
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada
- 14 Years Experience
- Head and Neck surgeon
- 17 Years Experience
- Head and Neck surgeon
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai