I have tightness / tingling on corner of jaw, part of neck and ear after parotid surgery 8 months ago. Any suggestion? (photo)

Question

I had a pleomorphic adenoma removed in Oct 2014. I had a complication of a fistula which drained both into my mouth and out from the incision behind my ear. 90% of the incision is healing well. However, the part behind my ear (where the fistula leaked out of) is quite raised. The entire area tingles. I know the facial nerve is impacted, but I'm wondering if the stitches were pulled too tight cause the bump behind the ear and some of the tingling? Thank you.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your picture. It appears that you have a hypertrophic/keloid scar. It may have been from tension at the time of closure of your room. This can be managed with steroid injections and silicone gel sheeting.  The numbness in the area maybe just a result of your tumor removal. I would recommend seeing board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for management of your scar.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  The tingling is caused as a result of the sensory nerves in the face, which is normal and will take time to dissipate.  The raised skin is a hypertrophic scar.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

You should return to your surgeon to make sure everything is okay.  However, tingling is good usually as it means the nerves are returing.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Excision of a parotid is fairly disruptive surgery and the parotid fistula contributes to the healing issues. The scar demonstrates active biologic activity. Be patient. All of this will improve over time.

Raymond E. Lee, MD · Answer

Thanks for posting your question and photo. Parotidectomy has incisions that are somewhat like facelift incisions. The bump behind your area is a hypertrophic scar that can be easily improved with a silicon gel such as Biocorneum or kelocote applied over the next few months.  In addition injections of Kenalog, a steroid, will help to shrink this scar tissue very effectively.  This can be done probably twice spaced 4-6 weeks apart.  This will likely help any sensitivity to this area. Note, this treatment is opinion based on would see in person.  Please consult a board certified facial plastic surgeon for proper treatment.

I have tightness / tingling on corner of jaw, part of neck and ear after parotid surgery 8 months ago. Any suggestion? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Persistent swelling after parotid surgery will continue to improve and with it the tightness felt in the neck.

Answer: Persistent swelling after parotid surgery will continue to improve and with it the tightness felt in the neck.

Answer: Hypertrophic scar can be treated easily

Answer: Hypertrophic scar can be treated easily

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I have tightness / tingling on corner of jaw, part of neck and ear after parotid surgery 8 months ago. Any suggestion? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Persistent swelling after parotid surgery will continue to improve and with it the tightness felt in the neck.

Answer: Persistent swelling after parotid surgery will continue to improve and with it the tightness felt in the neck.

Answer: Hypertrophic scar can be treated easily

Answer: Hypertrophic scar can be treated easily

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.