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Submandibular Gland Removal

What is the Submandibular Gland?

The submandibular gland is one of the main glands under your jaw that makes saliva. Saliva helps you chew, swallow, and keep your mouth clean.

Why Might You Need This Surgery?

Surgery may be recommend to remove the submandibular gland if you have:

  • A lump or tumour (most are not cancerous, but some can be)

  • Stones blocking the saliva duct, causing pain or swelling

  • Repeated infections that don’t get better with medicine

What Happens During the Surgery?

  • Before Surgery: You might need to have a scans (like ultrasound) or a small needle test to check the gland.

  • Anaesthesia: You’ll be asleep and won’t feel anything during the operation.

  • The operation: Dr Fragkiadakis will make a small cut under your jaw, will remove the gland, and carefully avoid important nerves and muscles.

  • Closing: The cut is closed with stitches that dissolve on their own. You might have a dressing or skin glue to keep the wound dry and clear.

What Are the Risks?

All surgeries have some risks, but serious problems are rare. Possible risks include:

  • Nerve injury: This could cause weakness in your lower face, numbness or taste changes in your tongue, or trouble moving your tongue.

  • Infection: Treated with antibiotics if it happens.

  • Swelling or bruising: This usually goes away in a few days.

  • Dry mouth: You may notice less saliva, but other glands help make up for it.

  • Scarring: The scar is usually hidden under your jaw.

  • Saliva leak: Rarely, saliva may leak from the wound, but this usually heals on its own.

  • Risks relating to the general anaesthetic: For more info for anaesthetic risks, you can check this link.

  • Follow-up: You’ll have a follow-up appointment to check your healing.

What is Recovery Like?

  • Going Home: Most people go home the same day.

  • Pain: You may have some pain or swelling, which can be managed with medicine and cold packs.

  • Diet: Eat soft foods at first and drink plenty of fluids.

  • Activity: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for about two weeks.

For further information, please click the link below

Excision of the submandibular salivary gland

If you have any further queries call 02087207499 or email contact@entgeorge.com

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