Overview
Salivary glands in your mouth produce and release saliva to keep the mouth moist and help you digest food. There are three pairs of major salivary glands and multiple smaller ones. The major glands are found in your cheeks (parotid glands), under your jaw (submandibular glands), and under your tongue (sublingual glands).
Who It Helps
Reasons for salivary gland surgery
- Cancer and other non-cancerous conditions of the salivary glands
- Blockage by small hardened mineral deposits, known as salivary stones
- Chronic infections or inflammation, e.g. sialadenitis
- Persistent or painful swelling not responding to other treatments
What Happens
Salivary gland surgery is performed in hospital under general anaesthetic. The type of surgery you need depends on your condition.
Types Of Procedures
Parotidectomy: surgery to remove part or all of the parotid gland in your cheek.
Submandibular gland excision: surgery to remove a tumour or stone blocking the submandibular gland under your jaw.
Sialendoscopy: a minimally invasive surgery to remove salivary stones blocking the salivary duct, using small incisions and small instruments. For larger stones, the gland may need to be removed as well.
Before Surgery
Fasting: usually 6 hours for food and 2 hours for clear fluids. You will receive instructions from Dr Kelly, the hospital or anaesthetist.
Medications: please inform Dr Kelly of all medications you take, especially blood thinners and weight loss medications, as these may need to be postponed for your safety.
Illness: if you develop a cold, fever or other illness before your procedure, please contact our clinic. Your surgery may need to be postponed for your safety.
Recovery Information
What To Expect
After surgery you can expect some swelling and discomfort in your face and numbness around your incisions. It is possible to have some temporary nerve weakness in your face. Your surgeon will explain any risks and outline what to expect.
Returning To Work
Most people return to work the next day after sialendoscopy, while recovery after salivary gland removal may take longer, usually 1 to 2 weeks. Recovery time depends on the type and reason for your surgery.
Parotidectomy Recovery
Parotidectomy recovery requires patience as tissues and facial nerves heal. You can usually return to work and light activities within 1 to 2 weeks, while complete healing takes approximately 3 to 12 months.
Post-Operative Care Instructions
Detailed aftercare guidance for your surgery, to keep and refer back to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes salivary stones?
Salivary stones are small hardened mineral deposits that can block the salivary ducts, causing pain and swelling.
What is sialendoscopy?
A minimally invasive procedure that removes salivary stones blocking the duct using small incisions and small instruments.
How long is recovery after salivary gland surgery?
Most people return to work the next day after sialendoscopy. Recovery after gland removal usually takes 1 to 2 weeks.
Do I need to fast before surgery?
Usually 6 hours for food and 2 hours for clear fluids. You will receive specific instructions from Dr Kelly, the hospital or anaesthetist.