Treatment Areas
Salivary Gland Tumour Diagnosis and Treatment in Istanbul
If you have noticed a swelling in front of the ear or under the jaw, the right first step is an examination by a surgeon who knows this region well.
What is a salivary gland tumour?
Salivary gland tumours are abnormal cells growing in the gland itself or in the ducts that drain it. Most are benign; pleomorphic adenoma, oncocytoma and Warthin tumour are the familiar names. Benign tumours almost never threaten life, but they keep growing slowly, so they are rarely left untreated.
The first sign is usually a lump over the jaw, in the cheek, under the ear or in the neck. Numbness in part of the face, weakness on one side, pain in front of the ear or trouble opening the mouth wide can also occur. Any of these, if persisting, deserves an examination.
How the diagnosis is made
Ultrasound comes first, with MRI added where needed. These two scans usually give strong evidence of whether the lump is benign or malignant. When the answer is still unclear, a fine-needle biopsy is taken under ultrasound guidance.
With the results in hand, your options are discussed openly. If surgery is advised, you will know why, what it involves and how recovery unfolds.
How Prof. Dr. Meriç Hafız approaches these operations
The most delicate matter in this surgery is the facial nerve, which runs through the parotid gland. The biggest risk is temporary or permanent facial weakness; the nerve stimulators used in these operations have reduced that risk to a minimum. The operation proceeds while seeing and monitoring the nerve.
Salivary fistulas, once a common nuisance after this surgery, are now rare thanks to modern cautery instruments and pressure dressings. Your follow-up plan is in your hands before discharge.
Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız
Treatment
Removing the tumour surgically usually settles the matter. If the tumour is small and easy to reach, it is removed together with a small margin of healthy tissue; sometimes removing part of the gland is enough. If the tumour is malignant, removing the whole gland, operating on the neck lymph nodes and adding radiotherapy may be needed.
Benign tumours usually need no further treatment after surgery. In every case the plan is personal, and you know each step in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Most are benign: not cancer, and they do not spread. These tumours almost never threaten life. They do keep growing, though, which is why assessment and usually planned surgery are advised.
That is the main risk, and the nerve stimulators used during surgery have reduced it to a minimum. Temporary weakness can occur and usually recovers. Your personal risk is discussed openly before the operation.
Three main reasons: stones blocking a duct, infections caused by viruses and bacteria (mumps is the most familiar example) and tumours. Examination and ultrasound show which one it is.
No. Ultrasound and, where needed, MRI usually give enough information. Biopsy is reserved for cases where imaging leaves the answer unclear.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız, Professor of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery — August 2026 · About
Outcomes of surgical and medical procedures vary from person to person; please consult your physician for an assessment specific to you.
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The practice is at Selenium Plaza in Beşiktaş. Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange a visit. English-speaking patients are welcome.