How long does facial numbness last after parotidectomy?

You may have numbness in your earlobe and weakness in your face. For most people, these problems get better within 3 to 4 months. But it can take as long as a year. In some cases, problems with facial movement are permanent.

Which nerve is injured during parotidectomy?

The branch of the facial nerve most at risk for injury during parotidectomy is the marginal mandibular branch. Older patients appear to be more susceptible to facial nerve injury. Temporary facial nerve weakness is a cosmetic problem, and patients should be told their appearance will return to normal.

How long does it take to recover from a parotidectomy?

While most patients recover completely within 3-4 months, others may take as long as one year.

What causes nerve damage to the parotid gland?

The most common causes of facial nerve disorders as a result of the parotid gland is tumors (pleomorphic adenoma), malignancy (adenoid cystic carcinoma, adenocarcinoma), trauma, and infectious process.

How long does it take for swelling to go down after a parotidectomy?

To reduce swelling, you may gently apply an ice pack to the surgical incision during the first 48 hours following surgery. If possible, sleep with your head elevated on two pillows. Most of your swelling should subside over 4 to 5 days.

How long does it take to recover from salivary gland surgery?

Your Recovery A saliva duct is a tube that carries saliva from the gland into the mouth. The area below your jaw may be sore for several days after your surgery. The area also may be slightly swollen or bruised. It will probably take 1 to 2 weeks for the cut (incision) to heal.

How long does swelling last after a parotidectomy?

What are the side effects of a parotidectomy?

Normal Side Effects of Surgery:

• Incisional and facial swelling.
• Mild incisional redness.
• Skin numbness.
• Jaw stiffness.
• Muffled or plugged ear feeling.
• Some pain/discomfort.
• Fatigue.
• Temporary facial weakness.

What happens when parotid gland is removed?

Permanent damage is possible but usually occurs in only the most difficult cases. Depending on the branch of the nerve that is damaged you may experience: • Weakness of the lower lip, leading to a slightly crooked smile. Weakness of the eyelids, making it difficult to keep the eye closed.

How much swelling is normal after parotidectomy?

Most of your swelling should subside over 4 to 5 days.

How long does it take to recover from parotidectomy?

Recovery takes on average about two to four months. However, if the swelling in your parotid gland is large, it is possible that during the operation the facial nerve can be seriously damaged or part of it may have required removal to allow for the swelling to come out completely.

How long will the recovery be for a parotidectomy?

Incisions take approximately 6 weeks to heal, however they continue to remodel for one to two years after surgery. Initially during the first 6 weeks scar creams should be used to hasten the initial healing.

What to expect after parotidectomy?

Your Care at Home After a Parotidectomy. When to Call Your Doctor Please call your doctor if you notice:  Extreme bleeding which is bleeding that soaks a gauze dressing in 10 minutes or less and keeps soaking the gauze dressings for one hour.  Temperature greater than 100.5º F for two readings taken 4 hours apart.

What to expect after pituitary tumor surgery?

Recovery after pituitary tumor surgery begins immediately in the hospital with close monitoring of vision, fluid intake and output and any nasal discharge from the surgery site. Expect to be out of work an average of about two weeks, depending on the type of work you do, according to Pituitary.org.