Department
Head & Neck
A lump in the neck, a thyroid swelling or a sore in the mouth that will not heal deserves a specialist's look.
What is head and neck surgery?
Head and neck surgery deals with conditions of the neck, thyroid, salivary glands, mouth and throat. The head and neck surgeon examines the area, arranges the right scan or biopsy, and — if surgery is needed — explains the operation, its risks and the expected recovery before you decide.
Who it is for
Anyone with a neck lump or swelling, a thyroid swelling, a swelling near the jaw or ear, a mouth ulcer or patch lasting more than two to three weeks, or a persistent change in voice or swallowing.
Conditions we see
- Thyroid swellings (goitre and nodules)
- Neck lumps and swollen glands
- Salivary gland swellings
- Non-healing mouth ulcers and white or red patches
- Persistent hoarseness or difficulty swallowing — assessment
Procedures and tests
- Clinical assessment and biopsy planning
- Thyroid surgery
- Excision of neck and salivary gland swellings
What to expect
- 01
Examination of the neck, mouth and throat.
- 02
Scans and, where needed, a needle test (FNAC) or biopsy — each explained first.
- 03
A treatment plan; for surgery, a written estimate and recovery timeline.
Your consultant
Head & Neck Surgeon
FAQ
Questions patients ask
Is every neck lump serious?
No — many are swollen glands from infection. But a lump that lasts more than two to three weeks, keeps growing or is hard should be examined.
What is FNAC?
Fine-needle aspiration cytology: a thin needle takes a few cells from a lump for testing. It is quick and usually done without admission.
Will thyroid surgery affect my voice?
Voice change is a known but uncommon risk of thyroid surgery. The surgeon will explain your individual risk before surgery.
I chew tobacco or smoke. Should I get my mouth checked?
Yes. Any mouth patch or ulcer that does not heal in two to three weeks should be examined, especially if you use tobacco.
Related
Related departments
Next step
Book a Head & Neck consultation
Tell us your preferred day; the hospital will confirm a time with you.