Salivary Gland Tumours
Salivary Gland Cancer
A share of salivary gland tumours are malignant. In that case removing the whole gland, operating on the neck lymph nodes where needed and adding radiotherapy come into the plan.
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.
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.
Read the full Salivary Gland Tumours guide
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.
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.
We are here for your questions
The practice is at Selenium Plaza in Beşiktaş. Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange a visit. English-speaking patients are welcome.