Learn about Parotidectomy Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Parotidectomy and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Parotidectomy

A parotidectomy is a specialized surgical procedure performed by a Surgical Oncologist to remove part or all of the parotid gland, the largest of the salivary glands located in front of the ear. This operation is most commonly indicated for treating tumors, both benign and malignant, within the gland. The procedure requires meticulous technique to preserve the facial nerve, which runs through the gland and controls facial expression. Surgical approaches vary from a superficial (partial) parotidectomy to a total parotidectomy, depending on the tumor's nature and extent. As experts in cancer surgery, Surgical Oncologists are uniquely skilled in achieving complete tumor removal while minimizing cosmetic and functional complications, ensuring optimal oncologic outcomes and patient safety.

Key Highlights

    Performed by a specialist (Surgical Oncologist) with expertise in cancer removal and nerve preservation.Definitive treatment for tumors of the parotid gland, offering a potential cure for cancer.Modern techniques prioritize the preservation of the critical facial nerve to maintain facial movement.Helps in obtaining a precise tissue diagnosis (biopsy) and determining the exact stage of cancer.Can alleviate symptoms like facial swelling, pain, or nerve-related issues caused by the tumor.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Primary benign tumors of the parotid gland (e.g., pleomorphic adenoma, Warthin's tumor).
  • Malignant (cancerous) tumors of the parotid gland (e.g., mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma).
  • Suspicious masses or lumps in the parotid region identified via imaging (CT/MRI) or fine-needle aspiration.
  • Chronic or recurrent infections or inflammatory conditions of the parotid gland not responsive to medication.
  • Metastatic cancer from another site (like skin cancer) that has spread to the parotid lymph nodes.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including imaging (CT/MRI scan) and often a fine-needle aspiration biopsy.
  • Detailed discussion with the surgeon about the procedure, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
  • Routine blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray to ensure fitness for general anesthesia.
  • Informing the surgeon about all current medications; may need to stop blood thinners several days prior.
  • Fasting (no food or drink) for 6-8 hours before the scheduled surgery time.

Risks & possible complications

  • Temporary or permanent weakness or paralysis of facial muscles (facial nerve injury).
  • Numbness of the ear lobe and skin around the incision site.
  • Formation of a salivary fistula (leakage of saliva) or a collection of fluid (seroma).
  • Frey's Syndrome (gustatory sweating), where sweating occurs on the cheek while eating.
  • Standard surgical risks: bleeding, infection, hematoma, scarring, and anesthesia-related complications.
  • Recurrence of the tumor, especially if it was cancerous.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay is typically required for 1-3 days for monitoring and initial pain management.
  • A drain may be placed near the incision to remove excess fluid and is usually removed before discharge.
  • Pain is managed with prescribed medications; keeping the head elevated helps reduce swelling.
  • Diet may start with soft foods; avoiding sour or citrus foods that stimulate saliva production initially.
  • Incision care involves keeping the area clean and dry; stitches are often removed after 7-10 days.
  • Gradual return to normal activities; strenuous exercise should be avoided for 3-4 weeks.
  • Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing, review pathology reports, and check for any nerve function issues.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 1-3 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering parotidectomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for parotidectomy compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 150 Thousand – 450 Thousand 1-3 days ~ 2-4 weeks Know More
Turkey TRY 525 Thousand – 1.58 Million 1-3 days ~ 2-4 weeks Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Sarah Gupta, a 37-year-old graphic designer,...

Sarah Gupta, a 37-year-old graphic designer, had endured recurring bouts of painful swelling and infection in her right parotid gland for over a decade, diagnosed as chronic sialadenitis. Antibiotics provided temporary relief, but the quality of her life was deteriorating, with constant discomfort and fear of flare-ups. After a severe infection led to an abscess, her surgical oncologist, Dr. Lawson, recommended a parotidectomy to remove the chronically diseased gland. Sarah was exhausted and ready for a definitive solution but anxious about scarring on her face, a core part of her identity in a visual field. The procedure was straightforward, focusing on removing the inflamed tissue. The post-op pain was less than her worst infections. The emotional turnaround was significant. The constant background anxiety of pain vanished. The scar, which she now calls her 'battle stripe', is minimal. For the first time in years, she can eat a lemon without wincing. She feels a liberating sense of control over her body and has returned to her creative work with renewed energy and focus.

Surgical Oncologists for Parotidectomy

Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform parotidectomy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Nitish Ranjan Acharya
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Devesh S. Ballal
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Lakshmanan C.
  • 39 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Manjunath N. M. L.
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated