A swelling in the neck is one of those things people tend to watch for weeks, hoping it will go away. Many neck lumps are harmless, such as a lymph node reacting to a throat infection. Some are not. The only way to know is to have the lump examined and, when needed, tested.
Dr. Sahil Kapoor is an ENT and head and neck surgeon in Gurgaon at Ace ENT Care, 238, Sector 5, Gurugram. He evaluates and treats conditions of the neck, thyroid, salivary glands, mouth and throat, using minimally invasive techniques where suitable.
Conditions treated under head and neck surgery
- Neck lumps: enlarged lymph nodes, cysts present from birth (thyroglossal and branchial cysts), lipomas and tumours.
- Thyroid swellings: thyroid nodules, multinodular goitre and thyroid cancer.
- Parathyroid disorders: overactive parathyroid glands that raise calcium levels.
- Salivary gland problems: stones, infections and tumours of the parotid (in front of the ear) and submandibular (below the jaw) glands.
- Growths in the mouth, throat and voice box: including cancers, which are more common in people who smoke or chew tobacco.
Symptoms that need a check-up
- A neck lump lasting more than three weeks
- A painless lump that is slowly getting bigger
- Swelling in the front of the neck that moves when you swallow
- Swelling below the jaw that gets worse while eating
- A mouth ulcer or white or red patch that doesn't heal in two to three weeks
- Hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or ear pain on one side without an ear problem
How neck lumps are evaluated
Neck lump treatment in Gurgaon starts with the right diagnosis. The ENT examination includes the mouth, throat and voice box, often with an endoscope, because the cause of a neck lump is sometimes elsewhere in the head and neck. Common tests include:
- Ultrasound of the neck: shows the size and features of a lump.
- FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology): a thin needle takes a few cells from the lump. It is done in a few minutes without anaesthesia.
- Thyroid function tests for thyroid swellings.
- CT or MRI scan for larger lumps or to plan surgery.
- Biopsy of a suspicious area in the mouth or throat.
Thyroid surgery in Gurgaon
Not every thyroid nodule needs surgery. Most are benign and only need monitoring with ultrasound. Thyroid nodule surgery is advised when:
- FNAC shows a suspicious or cancerous nodule
- The nodule or goitre is large and presses on the windpipe or food pipe
- There are cosmetic concerns from a visible swelling
- Some overactive thyroid conditions don't respond to other treatment
Surgery may remove one half of the thyroid (hemithyroidectomy) or the whole gland (total thyroidectomy). After total thyroidectomy, a daily thyroid tablet is needed for life. The main risks, which are discussed in detail before surgery, include temporary voice changes and low calcium.
Salivary gland surgery
Small stones in the salivary ducts can sometimes be removed through the mouth. Larger stones, repeated infections and tumours may need removal of the gland. Parotid surgery needs particular care because the facial nerve passes through the gland.
Recovery
Most neck surgeries need a hospital stay of one to three days. A small drain may be placed for a day or two. Patients usually return to light work in one to two weeks. Scars in the neck are placed in natural skin creases where possible.
Lowering your risk
Tobacco in any form, whether cigarettes, bidis, gutkha or khaini, is the biggest preventable cause of head and neck cancer in India. Quitting is the most useful single step. Regular dental checks and attention to non-healing mouth ulcers help catch problems early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every neck lump cancer?
No. Most neck lumps, especially in younger people, are reactive lymph nodes or benign swellings. A lump that lasts more than three weeks should still be examined.
Is FNAC painful?
It feels similar to a blood test. It takes a few minutes and you can go home straight after.
Will my voice change after thyroid surgery?
Most patients have no lasting change. Temporary hoarseness can occur and usually settles. The risks are discussed with you before surgery.
What does thyroid or salivary gland surgery cost?
The cost depends on the extent of surgery, the hospital stay and the tests needed. You will get a clear estimate after evaluation.
Are these surgeries covered under insurance or Ayushman card?
Thyroid and salivary gland surgeries are usually covered by health insurance when medically needed, and several are included in PMJAY packages. See the Ayushman card page.
Book a consultation
Call +91-8178774813 or use the appointment page. Please bring any ultrasound, FNAC or scan reports you already have.
Clinic Location
238, Sector 5, Gurugram, Haryana 122001
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
