Parotidectomy Surgery

What is a Parotidectomy?

A parotidectomy is surgery to remove part or all of the parotid salivary gland. It treats benign or cancerous conditions and sometimes chronic infections.

Preparing for Surgery

• Two Weeks Before: Stop taking NSAIDs (like aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, naproxen, Celebrex) and homeopathic medicines (like ginkgo biloba, garlic, fish oil, ginseng) to reduce bleeding risk. 

Surgery Information

• Procedure: An incision is made in front of and below the ear.
• Recovery: Expect mild to moderate pain, managed with pain medicine and possibly antibiotics. Eat and drink as tolerated. Avoid NSAIDs for two weeks after surgery. Limit strenuous activity for one to two weeks to prevent bleeding and fluid buildup.

Post-Operative Care

• Activity: Light activity for one to two weeks.
• Diet: Eat as tolerated.
• Medicines: Take prescribed pain medicines and antibiotics as directed.
• Bathing: Shower 24 hours after drains are removed. Avoid baths until one week after sutures or staples are removed.
• Follow-Up: Sutures or skin clips are usually removed five to seven days after surgery.