Frequently Asked Questions: Parotid & Salivary Surgery

Dr. Ryan Osborne answers your parotid & salivary gland questions:

Why choose Osborne Head & Neck Institute?

Osborne Head & Neck Institute (OHNI) provides experts in their field whose number one concern is your successful outcome. Both doctors are fellowship trained and board certified. We feel that it is equally important to not only treat disease but maintain normal function and appearance after your surgery. In an effort to achieve this result, Dr. Osborne and Dr. Hamilton have merged their individual areas of expertise to provide superior results. During your time at OHNI, you will have direct access to Dr. Osborne and Dr. Hamilton at all times both before and after your procedure, not residents or fellows.

What is the best surgery to remove a parotid gland tumor?

The best outcomes from parotid surgery are achieved with complete tumor removal, and include a margin of normal parotid tissue surrounding the tumor specimen. A superficial parotidectomy or total parotidectomy allows for complete excision of the tumor and reduces the chances of recurrence. At the Osborne Head and Neck Institute we perform a complete parotidectomy surgery through a mini-incision. This procedures require a high level of skill and advance training. Micro-parotidectomy and enucleation dissections do not provide a significant margin of normal tissue for complete excision of parotid tumors, and leads to an increase risk of tumor recurrence in the future and or incomplete primary excision.

Micro-parotidectomy, enucleation, and extracapsular are often performed by general otolaryngologist who are not fellowship trained in surgical head and neck oncology because they are technically less difficult procedures to perform. Dr. Osborne is a fellowship trained surgical oncologist and has advanced training in head and neck oncology.  You should always ask your physician if they completed a fellowship in head and neck oncology. If the answer is no, you should seek consultation for a fellowship trained oncologist.

Will I have any noticeable scars or dents on my face?

The majority of patients treated have no obvious scars or dents. Our surgeons utilize trademark techniques to ensure the best aesthetic result.

Can my procedure be performed on the weekend or evening?

Yes, your procedure may be performed on the weekend or evenings to accommodate your schedule. A fee may apply.

How long will I need to be off work?

Most patients return to their work and normal daily activities within one week after their procedure.

Will I need to be in the hospital?

All procedures are performed as outpatient ambulatory same-day procedures and you will not need to spend anytime in a hospital.

Will I be able to eat and talk normally after surgery?

Yes, your procedure will not affect your speech and you may eat normally the day of your procedure. Citrus and sour foods will need to be avoided for approximately two weeks.

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