What Is Head & Neck Tumor Surgery?
Head and neck tumor surgery involves the diagnosis and surgical removal of benign or malignant (cancerous) growths that occur in the mouth, throat, salivary glands, thyroid, paranasal sinuses, or neck lymph nodes.
These tumors can affect breathing, swallowing, speech, and facial appearance if left untreated.
At Büyük Anadolu Hospitals, surgeries are performed by a multidisciplinary team of ENT surgeons, maxillofacial experts, oncologists, and reconstructive specialists, ensuring both oncological safety and functional restoration.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Head & Neck Tumor Surgery?
You may be a candidate if you experience:
A persistent lump in the neck or swelling that does not resolve
Chronic sore throat, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing
Unexplained bleeding, ear pain, or mouth ulcers that do not heal
Diagnosed benign or malignant tumor of the oral cavity, larynx, thyroid, or salivary gland
Suspicious lesions identified during imaging or biopsy
Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve recovery and prognosis.
Step-by-Step Procedure Process
Comprehensive Evaluation: ENT examination, imaging (CT/MRI/PET-CT), and tissue biopsy.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia for all tumor surgeries.
Surgical Approach:
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Benign tumors: Complete excision while preserving nearby nerves and vessels.
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Malignant tumors: Wide excision with clear margins, often combined with neck dissection to remove affected lymph nodes.
Reconstruction: If needed, tissue flaps or grafts are used to restore function and appearance.
Duration: Varies (2–6 hours depending on tumor type and complexity).
Hospital Stay: 3–7 days on average.
Follow-Up: Pathology review and, if required, coordination with oncology for radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Possible Risks and Preventive Measures
| Possible Risks | Our Preventive Measures |
|---|---|
| Bleeding or infection | Advanced hemostatic control & antibiotic therapy |
| Nerve damage (facial, vocal, accessory) | Intraoperative nerve monitoring and microsurgical precision |
| Swallowing or speech difficulty | Early rehabilitation with speech and swallowing therapy |
| Scar formation | Reconstructive closure and aesthetic suturing |
| Recurrence or metastasis | Regular oncologic follow-up and imaging surveillance |
Cost of Head & Neck Tumor Surgery in Turkey
The cost of head and neck tumor surgery in Turkey ranges between €4,000 – €9,000, depending on tumor location, stage, reconstruction requirements, and postoperative care.
| Country | Average Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Turkey | €4,000 – €9,000 |
| United Kingdom | €10,000 – €18,000 |
| Germany | €9,000 – €15,000 |
| Spain | €8,000 – €13,000 |
| USA | €20,000 – €35,000 |
Get a Free Consultation: Speak with Our Specialists About Head & Neck Tumor Surgery
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery depends on tumor size and surgical complexity.
Hospital stay typically lasts 3–7 days; full recovery may take 2–4 weeks.
Swallowing and speech rehabilitation often begin early under supervision.
Regular follow-ups with ENT and oncology specialists ensure early detection of recurrence.
Long-term success is supported by nutrition, physiotherapy, and voice therapy if needed.
Head & Neck Tumor Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Pain is controlled effectively with medication and modern anesthesia. Most discomfort subsides within days.
Whenever possible, incisions are placed in natural skin folds or inside the mouth for discreet results.
Most benign and early-stage malignant tumors are surgically treatable; advanced cases may require combined radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
If tissue removal affects function or appearance, reconstructive surgery is performed immediately to restore both form and function.
Most international patients can travel 10–14 days after the operation, following medical clearance.