Salivary Gland Surgery

The salivary glands produce saliva which drains into the mouth through small tubes (ducts). Salivary gland surgery is performed to treat tumors, cysts, and other problems affecting these structures.

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Salivary gland surgery is a delicate, complex procedure. At SFENTA, our physicians have years of experience safely and successfully performing these surgeries for our patients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and begin planning your treatment.

Types of Salivary Gland Surgery

There are several types of salivary gland surgery. The type of surgery that best fits your needs will be determined after an evaluation with one of our expert providers.

Submandibular Sialoadenectomy

This surgery is done to treat chronic infections, large stones, and tumors in the submandibular gland. Masses in this area tend to be malignant, so they usually require the removal of the entire gland.

Sublingual Gland Surgery

This surgery is done to remove the sublingual gland due to a large cyst. During the procedure, your surgeon will usually make an incision through the mouth. However, if the cyst is particularly large, a cut will also be made on the neck.

Parotidectomy

Parotidectomy involves the removal of the largest salivary gland: the parotid. This procedure is done under general anesthesia, and it’s usually performed to treat a tumor, chronic infection, or blocked gland. During the operation, your surgeon will remove the entire gland or a small section of it.

Salivary Gland Surgery Benefits

This surgical procedure can provide patients who have salivary gland tumors with lasting relief. The symptoms of salivary gland tumors can impact one’s daily life even if they are not cancerous. They include difficulty swallowing, facial weakness or numbness, swelling, and pain. Salivary gland surgery can remove tumors and reduce their side effects, allowing patients to live more comfortably.

Conditions Treated by Salivary Gland Surgery

Salivary gland surgery is most commonly performed on those with salivary gland tumors. Most salivary gland tumors are benign, but do have the potential to be cancerous.

Surgery can also benefit those who have blocked salivary ducts, salivary stones, and chronic infections.

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Your Salivary Gland Treatment with SFENTA

South Florida ENT Associates is a group of ENT offices and providers dedicated to helping patients across South Florida. Our specialists have been in the area for over 30 years. During this time, we’ve grown considerably, and now have over 30 locations across Southern Florida.

Our staff works hard to provide each patient with:

Patient-Centered Care

Our staff offers one-on-one care that gives you the time and space to express your concerns without feeling rushed or brushed aside.

Continuity of Care

Our care is customized to fit your unique needs every time you visit us, and never includes generic treatment plans.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

Our network of over 50 providers works together to provide you care for all of your symptoms.

The Security of a Community Staple

We’ve been treating patients in the South Florida community for decades, so you can feel confident and comfortable in your decision to choose SFENTA.

Your Salivary Gland Surgery

The exact steps of your procedure will be reviewed with your provider before your appointment, and will be based on the surgery required. Your provider will also discuss any pre or post-operative care that may be required.

Most procedures use general anesthesia. An incision will be made and a portion or the entirety of the gland will be removed. Once this is complete, the incisions will be closed, and recovery can begin.

FAQ

How long is the recovery?

Recovery times will vary by surgery and patient. On average, recovery lasts for 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the procedure that was performed.

Who is a candidate for salivary gland surgery?

The primary candidates for salivary gland surgery are those with salivary gland tumors, salivary gland blocks, or other salivary gland conditions. After scheduling your appointment at SFENTA, one of our providers will evaluate your salivary glands, review your medical history, and discuss your symptoms. After this, they will let you know if you are a candidate for salivary gland surgery or if you would benefit more from other treatment methods.