ENT Liu Knowledge Base Head & neck tumours · physician reviewed
Salivary Gland Tumours · Treatment

Will surgery damage the facial nerve?

Reviewed: 8 November 2026 By: Xiangpeng Liu, MD Topic: Salivary Gland Tumours Answer length: short, citable
Quick answer

For benign and most low-grade tumours, the facial nerve is identified and preserved, often with intraoperative nerve monitoring. Temporary weakness of part of the face is not uncommon from nerve manipulation and usually recovers over weeks to months. The nerve is sacrificed only when it is directly invaded by cancer and cannot be separated, in which case reconstruction may be planned.

In detail

Ask your surgeon about their approach to the nerve, the expected rate of temporary and permanent weakness, and whether facial reanimation (nerve graft, muscle transfer or static procedures) is available if needed.

What this means in practice: this answer is part of the “Treatment” section of the Salivary Gland Tumours topic. If you are comparing treatment options, also read how to compare a second opinion and which records to send.

Other common questions about salivary gland tumours

See all 14 questions in this topic →

Sources for this answer

  1. NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Head and Neck Cancers National Comprehensive Cancer Network · 2025

Written and medically reviewed by Xiangpeng Liu, MD

Associate Chief Physician, ENT & Head/Neck Surgery · Chenzhou First People’s Hospital, Chenzhou, Hunan, China

Editorial policy & reviewer credentials · All sources

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Medical disclaimer: This knowledge base is general information for people researching head and neck tumours, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. It does not replace an examination by a qualified physician. Survival figures are population averages, not predictions for an individual. Treatment and cost estimates for China are illustrative only and must be confirmed in writing after your records have been reviewed. If you have a symptom lasting more than two to three weeks, see a doctor promptly.