A parotidectomy is a specialized surgical procedure that involves removing part or all of the parotid gland—the largest salivary gland located in front of the ear and extending to the lower edge of the jawbone. At our practice, we understand that procedures involving your face can feel particularly concerning. That's why we're committed to providing gentle, expert care while helping you understand each step of your treatment journey. This meticulous procedure effectively treats various conditions affecting the parotid gland, from benign tumors to inflammatory disorders. We perform parotidectomy with facial nerve monitoring and preservation techniques that prioritize both functional outcomes and aesthetic results, using carefully hidden incisions that follow natural skin creases for optimal cosmetic healing.
You may need a parotidectomy if you experience:
A persistent lump or swelling in front of or below the ear
Slow-growing, painless mass in the parotid region
Pain or discomfort in the parotid area, especially during eating
Skin changes or dimpling over the parotid gland
Facial weakness or asymmetry
Diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma or other benign parotid tumors
Warthin's tumor or other cystic lesions of the parotid gland
Malignant tumors of the parotid gland
Recurrent parotid infections not responding to antibiotics
Frey's syndrome (facial sweating during eating)
Salivary stones, causing obstruction and repeated infections
Abnormal findings on imaging studies of the parotid region
Our approach to parotidectomy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with meticulous planning using high-resolution imaging to map the facial nerve branches and precisely locate the abnormality within the gland. What sets us apart is our surgeon's expertise in continuous facial nerve monitoring throughout the procedure, allowing for real-time feedback to preserve facial movement and expression. We specialize in selective superficial parotidectomy whenever possible, removing only the affected portion of the gland while sparing healthy tissue. Our distinctive approach includes innovative techniques to prevent Frey's syndrome and careful reconstruction methods that maintain the natural contour of your face.
Immediate Post-Procedure (24-72 hours)
Keep your head elevated at a 30-45 degree angle to reduce swelling
Apply ice packs to the surgical area (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
Take prescribed pain medication as directed to manage discomfort
Expect some facial numbness around the ear and incision site
Keep the incision site clean and dry according to your surgeon's instructions
Watch for excess drainage from the surgical drain if one was placed
Consume soft foods and maintain good hydration
Avoid strenuous activities, bending, or heavy lifting
Report any sudden facial weakness or asymmetry immediately
Short-Term Recovery (1-3 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment for drain removal (typically 2-5 days after surgery)
Continue keeping the incision site clean, applying ointment if recommended
Begin gentle facial exercises if prescribed by your surgeon
Resume light activities gradually, avoiding strenuous exercise for 2-3 weeks
Expect some continued numbness around the ear, which typically improves over time
Use scar management techniques as recommended after sutures are removed
Return to work based on your surgeon's recommendation (typically 1-2 weeks)
Transition to over-the-counter pain relievers as discomfort decreases
Be aware that facial swelling will gradually subside but may take several weeks to fully resolve
Long-Term Expectations
Most patients experience well-healed scars that blend with natural skin creases within 6-12 months
Gradual improvement in any temporary facial weakness, typically resolving within 3-6 months
Return of normal sensation to the ear lobe and surgical area, though some may have permanent mild numbness
Potential for mild hollowing at the surgical site, which typically appears minimal once fully healed
Follow any additional treatment recommendations based on pathology results
Maintain regular follow-up appointments to monitor for any recurrence
Most patients can resume all normal activities without restrictions after 3-4 weeks
Annual check-ups may be recommended depending on your diagnosis
Common Side Effects
Temporary facial weakness that typically improves over several weeks
Numbness around the ear lobe and incision site
Visible scar that fades and flattens over time
Mild indentation or contour change at the surgical site
Some patients experience a sensation of ear fullness or mild discomfort
Temporary changes in salivary function
Less Common Complications
Permanent facial nerve weakness (occurs in less than 2% of cases)
Formation of a salivary fistula (abnormal connection between gland and skin)
Hematoma (collection of blood under the skin)
Surgical site infection (rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases)
Frey's syndrome (sweating on the cheek during eating)
Great auricular nerve injury causing permanent numbness
Sialocele (collection of saliva under the skin)
Keloid or hypertrophic scar formation
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Sudden or severe facial weakness that was not present immediately after surgery
Excessive bleeding or large hematoma formation at the surgical site
Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication
Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus, or fever)
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Large fluid collection under the skin
Drainage that is excessive or has a foul odor
Opening of the incision or wound separation
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
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All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
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At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
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Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.