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Scarless Neck Surgeries & Better Functional Outcomes

What Are Head and Neck Cancers?

Head & Neck cancer care

Head and Neck Cancers include a broad group of tumors affecting:

  • Oral Cavity: lips, tongue, buccal mucosa (cheek), floor of mouth, gums
  • Pharynx & Larynx: tonsils, base of tongue, soft palate, vocal cords, epiglottis, pyriform fossa
  • Salivary Glands: especially the parotid and submandibular glands

These cancers are common in men and are the second most frequent cancer in women after cervical cancer. Importantly, they are curable when detected early.

Scarless Neck Surgeries & Better Functional Outcomes

Watch for These Symptoms

If you notice any of the following, consult a specialist promptly:

  • Persistent, non-healing ulcer or growth in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing or pain while eating
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Lump or swelling in the neck
  • Foul breath, excessive salivation

Who Is at Risk?

You may be at higher risk if you:

  • Smoke or consume alcohol regularly
  • Chew tobacco, pan, or betel nut
  • Use snuff or tobacco powder
  • Have poor oral hygiene or sharp teeth causing irritation
  • Are exposed to HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
  • Have weakened immunity

Evaluation: How I Approach It

I follow a stepwise diagnostic approach:

  • Thorough clinical examination of the oral cavity and neck
  • Endoscopic evaluation of the throat (pharynx, larynx, esophagus)
  • Biopsy of any suspicious ulcer or growth
  • Imaging – CT/MRI scan to assess the size, depth, and spread

Multidisciplinary Treatment Planning

Every case is reviewed by a comprehensive cancer team including:

  • Surgical oncologist
  • Radiation and medical oncologists
  • Plastic/reconstructive surgeon
  • Radiologist, pathologist, nutritionist, and rehabilitation specialists

This ensures a tailored, organ-preserving, and function-focused treatment plan.

Treatment Options by Cancer Type

Oral Cavity Cancers

Surgery is the primary treatment. Options include:

  • Wide Local Excision + Neck Dissection (removal of lymph nodes)
  • Composite Resection – for tumors involving bone and soft tissues
  • Reconstruction using free microvascular flaps or regional flaps to restore facial form and oral functions (chewing, speech)

Post‑surgery treatment may include radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy depending on pathology.

Pharyngeal & Laryngeal Cancers

Organ preservation is the goal.

  • Treated primarily with concurrent chemoradiotherapy
  • Avoids permanent voice loss or need for feeding tubes
  • Surgery is reserved for persistent or recurrent disease
  • Organ preservation is achievable in 75–90% of patients
Salivary Gland Cancers
  • Most often arise in the parotid or submandibular glands
  • High potential to spread to neck nodes
  • Treated with surgical removal of the gland along with neck dissection
  • Adjuvant radiation is considered for high‑grade or invasive tumors

Surgical Approaches: Modern Precision Meets Minimal Scars

Surgical approach image

Traditional Open Surgery

Involves an incision on the neck. Effective for most cancers, but may result in visible scars and soft tissue contractures
Surgical approach image

Endoscopic Neck Surgery (Scarless Surgery)

Ideal for early-stage cancers in select patients Performed through tiny incisions in the chest or axilla. Avoids visible neck scars
Surgical approach image

Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Neck Dissection (RIA-MIND)

Uses the robot’s precision and ergonomics to perform scarless, accurate neck dissections Offers better access, less trauma, faster recovery

💬 Suspecting a Head and Neck Tumor?

Timely evaluation makes all the difference. With advanced diagnostics, organ-preserving therapies, and modern surgical techniques, you can fight cancer while preserving your function and confidence..

Meet Dr. Pradeep

Surgical Oncologist | Head & Neck Cancer Specialist
Expert in Robotic & Endoscopic Neck Surgery

Consult today for expert evaluation, second opinion, or comprehensive care.
Dr. Pradeep