What is parotid surgery?
Parotid surgery or parotidectomy is used to remove the entire parotid gland or part of it due to a tumor, cyst, chronic infection, or other disease of the largest salivary gland. Parotid glands are located in front of the ears and secrete saliva, which aids in digestion and oral hygiene. The facial nerve runs directly through the parotid gland, so the surgery must be precise and have a lot of surgical experience. Therefore, selecting an experienced surgeon will substantially lessen the risk of complications.Who Needs Parotid Surgery?
You may need surgery to remove your parotid gland if you have any of the following symptoms:- A mass or swelling in the area around the ear or jaw
- Chronic parotitis
- Recurrent salivary gland infections
- Tumors of the parotid gland (benign or malignant)
- Enlarged glands that cause chewing problems
- If a mass is found in the gland, the person may have numbness or weakness on one side of their face (paresthesia).
- Salivary gland cysts
Conditions Treated with Parotid Surgery
At JJ Medics, we provide surgical correction for several parotid gland diseases, such as:- Benign parotid tumors
- Tumors of the parotid glands that are cancerous.
- Warthin's tumors
- Pleomorphic adenomas
- Chronic parotitis
- Salivary gland cysts
- Exclusion of salivary gland neoplasms.
- Recurrent infections
- Enlarged parotid glands
Symptoms That Should Never Be Ignored
If you have any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention:- A bump that doesn't hurt in the area of the ear
- Ongoing swelling of the cheek.
- Pain while eating
- Facial weakness
- I'm having trouble opening my mouth.
- Repeated infections
- Enlarged neck or jaw swelling
- Numbness around the face
Types of Parotid Surgery
The type of surgery will depend on the size, location, and type of the disease. Superficial Parotidectomy If only the outer part of the gland is removed, the facial nerve is spared. This is typically conducted on superficial lobe tumors. Total Parotidectomy If the disease is present in both lobes or if malignant tumors are present, the surgeon will remove the gland as a whole and will carefully spare the facial nerve if possible. Radical Parotidectomy If the cancer has spread into the surrounding tissues or into the facial nerve, more extensive surgery may be required for complete removal of the tumor.Benefits of Parotid Surgery
There are many advantages to parotid surgery, such as:- Treatment of abnormal growths.
- Treatment of cancerous tumors
- Relief from chronic infections
- Protecting against the metastasis of tumors.
- Improved facial appearance
- Less pain and discomfort
- Better oral function
- Maintain good adjacent tissues.
- Improved quality of life
Your Consultation at JJ Medics
At the time of consultation, Dr. Amjad Umair thoroughly reviews your symptoms and medical history. He then suggests suitable investigations to confirm the diagnosis. You may be asked to include the following in your assessment:- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Ultrasound
- CT Scan
- MRI Scan
- Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)
- Blood tests
How is Parotid Surgery Performed?
The process is normally as follows:Step 1: Anesthesia
The anesthesiologist puts the patient to sleep so that the patient will be completely at ease during the surgery.Step 2: Surgical Incision
Dr. Amjad Umair made a well-planned incision around the ear and inside the natural skin folds to minimise any scarring visible.Step 3: Facial Nerve Identification
He carefully localises and safeguards the facial nerve during surgery, operating with a high degree of precision.Step 4: Gland Removal
Based on the diagnosis, he will remove the affected part or the entire gland.Step 5: Closure
Lastly, he sutures the cut very tightly and may insert a temporary drain to make sure that there is no fluid accumulation.Recovery After Parotid Surgery
The usual hospital stay is 1 day, but it may be the same day if the patient's condition is very mild. During recovery:- Gradual improvement in mild swelling.
- Medication is effective in keeping pain under control.
- The drain usually comes out within 24–48 hours.
- Most people can return to light activity within 1-2 weeks.
- Full recovery takes a few weeks.
Possible Risks
As with all surgery, there is a risk to parotid surgery. However, skilled surgeons perform surgery in a meticulous way to reduce them. Possible risks include:- Temporary facial weakness
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Fluid collection
- Scar formation
- Paresthesia at the level of the ears
- Salivary leakage
- Frey's Syndrome (eating and sweating)
- A very uncommon permanent facial nerve injury.
Why Choose JJ Medics for Parotid Surgery in Islamabad?
JJ Medics ensures patients have trust in us since we offer:- Expert surgical expertise
- Personalized treatment plans
- Modern diagnostic facilities
- Comprehensive patient care
- Advanced surgical techniques
- Patient-centered approach
- Safe surgical environment
- Detailed follow-up care
- Use a focus on preservation of the facial nerve.
Cost of Parotid Surgery in Islamabad
The cost of Parotid Surgery in Islamabad/Pakistan starts from PKR 40,000 PKR to Rs. 150,000 PKR. However, it depends on several factors, including the type of surgery required, the complexity of the condition, hospital charges, diagnostic investigations, anesthesia fees, and post-operative care. At JJ Medics Hospital, every patient receives a detailed consultation before surgery, allowing the treatment plan and cost estimate to match their specific medical needs. To receive an accurate quotation, book a consultation with Dr. Amjad Umair.Best Surgeon For Parotid Surgery In Islamabad
Your treatment is performed by Dr. Amjad Umair, an experienced Advanced Laparoscopic, General & Bariatric Surgeon who believes in delivering safe, precise, and evidence-based surgical care.Qualifications
- MBBS – Kabir Medical College
- FCPS (Surgery) – College of Physicians and Surgeons, Pakistan
- Fellowship in Upper GI and Bariatric Surgery – Shifa International Hospital
- Gold Medalist – Best Young Surgeon Award
Professional Memberships
- Member, Society of Surgeons Pakistan
- Member, Pakistan Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society (POMSS)
- Member, International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)