Removal of the submandibular salivary gland

Information for patients from the British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (BOAMS)

This leaflet aims to answer some of the common questions patients have about this treatment. It is not meant to replace the information discussed between you and your doctor. However, it can act as a starting point for such a discussion or as a useful reminder of the key points.

This leaflet explains the following.

We hope this leaflet answers some of the questions you may have. If you have any further questions or concerns, please speak to a member of your healthcare team.

What is the submandibular gland?

Diagram showing the position of the submandibular gland and submandibular duct
The submandibular gland and submandibular duct

The submandibular gland is a salivary gland about the size of a plum. It lies immediately below the lower jaw.

Saliva drains from the gland through a tube. The tube opens on the inside of the mouth under the tongue, immediately behind the lower front teeth. The tube is called the submandibular duct.

The most common reason for removing a submandibular gland is infection. An infection can occur if the tubes that drain saliva become blocked. Blockages usually happen as a result of stones.

What does the operation involve?

Will anything else be done while I am asleep?

If your gland is being removed because of infection caused by a stone, your surgeon may also need to make a cut inside your mouth to remove the stone. You will discuss this with your surgeon before your operation.

How long will the operation take?

How long the operation takes, depends partly on how difficult the operation is. If the procedure is uncomplicated, it will take approximately 45 minutes.

What happens if I choose not to have surgery?

If you choose not to have surgery, this will be discussed with your surgeon. They may continue to monitor your condition or discharge you back to your GP. Surgery is the only way of removing a blockage.

What can I expect after my operation?

Do I need any time off work?

We usually advise you to take a week off work, to recover from your surgery. Do not do any strenuous activity during this time.

Is there anything that I need to do when I get home?

You must keep your wound dry for the first week following surgery. Take care when washing or shaving.

Will I have a scar?

All cuts made through the skin leave a scar. Most fade with time, and are difficult to see when fully healed.

It may take several months for your scar to fade. Eventually it should blend into the natural folds and contours of your face.

What are the possible problems?

If you have any concerns or worries, please speak to your surgeon.

The surgeon tells me that damage to nerves is possible. What does this mean?

There are three nerves that lie close to the submandibular gland. Most nerve damage happens as a result of bruising of these nerves, as the nerves are held out of the way and protected during surgery.

During the removal of the gland, these nerves can be damaged, all with varying results.

Is permanent nerve damage possible?

Most nerve damage is temporary, although it can take several months for the nerves to recover. Permanent damage usually only happens in the most difficult cases. Please speak to your surgeon if you are worried or have questions.

Will my mouth be left dry after the removal of a salivary gland?

The removal of one submandibular gland will not affect the amount of saliva you produce. There are many other salivary glands left in and around your mouth that will keep it moist.

What if I have any questions or concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to a member of your healthcare team.

Ask 3 Questions

There may be choices to make about your healthcare. Before making any decisions, make sure you get the answers to these three questions:

Your healthcare team needs you to tell them what is important to you. It’s all about shared decision making.

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