Parotidectomy
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
A parotidectomy is surgery to remove part or all of your parotid gland. Your parotid glands are found in your cheeks, over your jaw, and in front of your ears. They release saliva into your mouth through the parotid duct.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- Blood soaks through your bandage.
- You have trouble swallowing.
- You have sudden numbness in your face.
- You have severe pain.
- You cannot move part of your face.
Call your doctor or surgeon if:
- You have a fever.
- Your surgery area is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- Your pain does not get better, even after you take medicine.
- Your face becomes red and sweaty when you eat.
- You have new trouble chewing.
- Your mouth and eyes are very dry.
- You feel a new lump in your face or neck.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Care for the surgery area:
You may need to wash the surgery area with soap and water. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty. Check for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.
Drink liquids as directed:
Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. This will help flush your mouth and keep your saliva flowing.
Follow up with your doctor or surgeon as directed:
You may need more tests or to have your stitches removed. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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