The submaxillary gland is part of the salivary gland systems. This is the system which keeps your mouth moist and makes you mouth water when you eat. This system is extensive and much of it can be removed without any consequences on your ability to eat or taste.

Removal of the submaxillary gland, otherwise known as the submandibular gland, is the usually performed when the gland becomes damaged. The symptoms of damage are repeated painful swelling and infection or repeated stone formation.

The operation is done through an incision on the side of the neck. We take care to select a skin fold if one is available. In entering the neck, there is risk to the nerve which moves the outside corner of the lower lip. The nerve is positioned differently in different people, and it can be difficult to anticipate where it is during the initial incision. Of course, we take great care as we make the incision to avoid it if at all possible.

Other structures which are close to the gland in location include the nerve that moves the tongue and yet another nerve which provides sensation to the tongue. Paralysis of half the tongue or loss of sensation in half the tongue are unusual but potential consequences of the surgery.

The surgery takes about an hour and a half. It is done with you completely asleep and no transfusions are generally required.