Areas of practice
Maxillofacial Oncology: Tumours of the Face and Neck
Surgical treatment of benign and malignant tumours of the skin, bones, tongue and salivary glands.
Overview
Tumours in the maxillofacial region can involve the skin, soft tissues, jaw bones, tongue and salivary glands. They may be benign or malignant — this is established through investigation.
Treatment of malignant disease is usually discussed and planned by a multidisciplinary team. Where possible, tumour removal is combined with reconstruction of the affected area.
Topics in this area
Salivary Gland Tumours — Parotid and Submandibular Glands
Assessment and surgical treatment of lumps in the parotid and submandibular salivary glands.
Skin Tumours of the Face and Neck — Removal and Reconstruction
Assessment and surgical removal of skin lesions of the face and neck, with reconstruction of the area when needed.
Tumours of the Tongue and Mouth
Assessment and surgical treatment of lumps and non-healing changes on the tongue, floor of the mouth, gums and cheeks.
Jaw Bone Tumours — Diagnosis and Treatment
Assessment and surgical treatment of lesions in the upper and lower jaw, including jaw reconstruction when needed.
Who may need an evaluation
- Lesions of the skin of the face and neck.
- Swellings or masses in the region of the salivary glands.
- Changes on the tongue or oral mucosa that do not resolve.
- Lesions of the jaw bones found on examination or imaging.
What the consultation may include
- A detailed history and clinical examination.
- Review of existing results and arrangement of further diagnostics — imaging, biopsy or histology.
- A discussion of next steps and, where needed, referral for multidisciplinary assessment.
What to bring
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
- Histology reports and oncology board opinions, if available.
Treatment planning principles
- A final diagnosis is based on investigations, not on clinical appearance alone.
- The plan considers the type and extent of disease, general health and function.
- Reconstruction and rehabilitation are considered from the start of surgical planning.
Risks, alternatives and individual variation
Surgery for tumours of the face and neck can affect nearby structures — for example nerves responsible for facial movement or sensation. Risks are discussed individually according to the location and type of tumour.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Is every lump on the face a tumour?
No. Many lumps have an inflammatory or other benign cause. The cause can only be established after examination and investigation.
When should I seek an examination?
When you notice a lump that is growing, has not gone away within a few weeks, bleeds, or is associated with pain, numbness or difficulty swallowing. For acute symptoms, contact emergency services.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether a treatment is suitable for you, and who will perform it, is determined after an individual consultation.