This is the most important consideration in parotid surgery. In the hands of an experienced specialist surgeon, the risk of a permanent, severe weakness to the facial nerve is very low (typically 1-2%). Temporary weakness is more common but usually resolves fully. The use of continuous nerve monitoring during the surgery adds a critical layer of safety.

Dr. Basheeth uses a modified facelift incision, which is meticulously placed in the natural crease in front of your ear and then hidden in the hairline behind it. This technique provides excellent access for the surgery while resulting in a scar that heals beautifully and is very difficult to see once matured.

Frey's syndrome is a common, long-term side effect of parotidectomy where you may experience sweating on the skin of your cheek when you eat. It occurs because nerve fibres that were meant for the salivary gland regrow to supply the sweat glands of the overlying skin. While it can be a nuisance, it is not dangerous and can be managed if it becomes bothersome.

Removing the gland can sometimes leave a small contour defect or hollow in the cheek area. The extent of this depends on the size of the gland removed and your own anatomy. If this is a concern, Dr. Basheeth can discuss potential reconstructive options with you.

The most significant risks are related to the three important nerves located near the gland: the marginal mandibular nerve (controls the corner of your mouth), the hypoglossal nerve (controls tongue movement), and the lingual nerve (provides sensation to your tongue). In the hands of an experienced surgeon, the risk of permanent injury to these nerves is low, but temporary weakness or numbness during the healing period can occur.

No. Your remaining major salivary glands (the other submandibular gland and the two large parotid glands) and hundreds of minor glands produce more than enough saliva to compensate. You should not notice any significant difference in mouth wetness.

For tumours, removing the entire gland is the standard of care. It is the safest way to ensure the whole tumour is removed with a clear margin of healthy tissue around it, which significantly reduces the risk of it ever coming back.

Dr. Basheeth is very careful to place the incision within a natural skin crease in your upper neck. This allows it to heal beautifully, and once it has fully matured, the scar is typically very fine and difficult to see.