Understanding Salivary Gland Removal Surgery

Salivary gland removal is a specialized procedure that might target gland issues or some aesthetic problems under the jaw. Having an understanding of why the surgery is indicated, how the surgeon assesses the glands, and what happens during the recovery process may help in making appropriate decisions.

Appropriate assessment is crucial as the glands are located near vital nerves and blood vessels and contribute a lot to saliva secretion. Adequate medical information may provide patients with proper expectations and preparations.

What Are the Submandibular Glands?

The submandibular glands are a pair of salivary glands located under the jaw. The glands are approximately walnut-sized and are located near the facial artery, lingual nerve, and marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve.

When Is Surgery Considered?

Surgery might be required when the gland requires definitive treatment. Indications may include:

●      Salivary stones blocking the duct repeatedly

●      Chronic inflammation or infection resistant to other treatments

●      Tumor that needs to be removed for further pathological examination

●      Selected aesthetic problems due to enlarged glands under the jaw

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Prior to the procedure, the doctor will review the patient’s medical history, medication, allergies, and previous procedures before examining the patient.

In surgery, the use of general anesthesia is common. A strategically made incision that is usually 4-5 cm long could follow along the natural line below the jawline. The surgeon will separate the gland while locating the nearby nerves and blood vessels.

The duration of the procedure is usually one to two hours. Korean jawline lifting surgery is a cosmetic technique that should be assessed individually.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-surgery swelling and bruising typically worsen within 48-72 hours before gradually improving. Pain is typically well-managed with medication. In addition, wound care will remain important throughout the process of recovery. Patients usually go back to their work in one to two weeks post-surgery, even though recovery takes four to six weeks. Measures for recovery include:

●      Following wound care instructions

●      Eating soft food initially when instructed to do so

●      Avoiding any physical exercise until advised to do so

●      Keeping hydrated

●      Attending follow-up visits will help the doctor to monitor your recovery

Potential Risks

Salivary gland removal also has its own potential risks, just like any other surgery. According to figures from literature sources, hematoma rates range from 2% to 10%, wound infection occurs 2% to 9%, and salivary fistula rate is 1% to 3%. There have been instances of temporary injury to the marginal mandibular nerve, with the incidence rate being 1% to 10%, but permanent injury is rare.

The occurrence of dry mouth is not common since the remaining salivary glands will keep producing saliva. Issues regarding the nose surgery cost in Korea will be evaluated separately, as each procedure has different prices.

Conclusion

In case of patients who have decided to undergo salivary gland removal, a well-informed consultation is the basis for a safe decision-making process. It entails proper planning of the anatomy involved in the operation, indications, and post-surgery procedures. Mine Clinic offers guidance to patients who intend to undergo submandibular gland surgery.

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