Should You Really Get Salivary Gland Removal Surgery?

What Is Salivary Gland Removal Surgery?

Salivary gland removal surgery (submandibular gland excision) is a procedure that removes the submandibular gland located beneath the jawline. In recent years, it has gained popularity for cosmetic purposes — particularly for jawline refinement.
The submandibular gland can add fullness to the lower face, which sometimes makes the jawline appear round or give the impression of a double chin.

MINE Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in Gangnam, Seoul, specializes in this procedure with expert surgeons and advanced facilities, providing safe and effective jawline improvement results.

Illustration note: Anatomical diagram showing the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. (Image source: National Cancer Center, Dr. Joon-Sun Ryu, ENT Specialist & Medical Illustrator)

Understanding the Salivary Glands and Their Function

The salivary glands are essential organs responsible for saliva production. There are three major pairs of glands:

• Submandibular gland: Located beneath the jaw; produces about 65% of total saliva.
• Parotid gland: Located in front of the ears; activates primarily during eating.
• Sublingual gland: Located beneath the tongue.

Their main roles include:

• Aiding digestion: Amylase in saliva breaks down carbohydrates.
• Protecting oral health: Has antibacterial properties to maintain hygiene.
• Lubricating the mouth: Helps with speaking and swallowing.
• Enhancing taste: Assists in flavor perception.

From a cosmetic perspective, the submandibular gland can sometimes create a bulky lower face contour, prompting some individuals to seek removal for aesthetic refinement.

Cosmetic Purposes of Salivary Gland Removal

How Does It Enhance Facial Appearance?

The submandibular gland is typically almond-sized, about 3–4 cm in length. Because it occupies space beneath the jaw, its removal can result in:

• Sharper jawline: Reduces lower facial fullness.
• Enhanced V-line contour: Improves facial proportions.
• Reduced double chin appearance: Decreases volume beneath the chin.
• Better facial balance: Creates a more harmonious lower face.

According to the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, when performed by skilled surgeons on well-selected candidates, cosmetic salivary gland removal yields high satisfaction rates. However, it’s not suitable for everyone—professional consultation is crucial.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may benefit from this procedure if you:

• Have fullness under the jawline that blurs facial definition.
• Do not see improvement from liposuction or lifting procedures.
• Remain unsatisfied with your jawline after facial contouring surgery.
• Are in good health and medically fit for surgery.
• Fully understand potential risks and changes after gland removal.

At MINE Plastic Surgery Clinic, candidates undergo detailed facial analysis and consultation to ensure the procedure fits their anatomy and goals.

Salivary Gland Removal vs. Non-Surgical Options

What Are the Non-Surgical Alternatives for Jawline Refinement?

One common alternative is salivary gland botox (submandibular botox) — injecting botulinum toxin to reduce gland size.
Pros: Minimally invasive, quick recovery.
Cons: Temporary effects (typically 4–6 months), limited contour change.

Thus, while non-surgical options offer convenience, their results are modest compared to surgery.

When Should You Consider Surgery Instead?

Salivary gland removal may be more appropriate if:

• Non-surgical treatments fail to improve jawline bulk.
• You seek permanent and more defined results.
• Your glands are unusually large or visibly protruding.
• You want a one-time, dramatic contour improvement.
• You’re combining it with other facial surgeries (e.g., facelift).

At MINE Plastic Surgery Clinic, surgeons assess each patient’s anatomy and goals to recommend the most suitable approach.

Surgery Process and Preparation

Preoperative Checklist

Before the procedure, patients typically undergo:

• Pre-op testing: Blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray.
• Medication review: Stop aspirin or anticoagulants 1–2 weeks prior (under doctor guidance).
• Fasting: No food or water 8 hours before surgery.
• Allergy disclosure: Notify your surgeon of any drug or latex allergies.
• Escort arrangement: Have someone accompany you post-surgery.

Surgical Steps

1. Anesthesia: Usually performed under sedation anesthesia.
2. Incision: Made beneath the chin in the double chin crease.
3. Accessing the gland: Through the muscle layers after removing submusclar fat block.
4. Nerve preservation: Carefully identify and protect facial and lingual nerves.
5. Gland removal: Excise the submandibular gland with precision.
6. Hemostasis and closure: Check for bleeding and suture in layers.
7. Dressing: Apply compression dressing.

Average surgery time: 1–2 hours.

Surgical Approaches

1. Submandibular (Under-Chin) Approach

This is the most common technique. At MINE Plastic Surgery, surgeons make a small (<3 cm) incision beneath the chin within the natural crease — nearly invisible from the front.
This approach offers direct access to the gland with minimal nerve contact, ensuring safety and excellent cosmetic results.

2. Facelift (Postauricular) Approach

This method accesses the gland via the natural crease around and behind the ear, extending into the hairline. It leaves virtually no visible scars and can be combined with facelift procedures.
However, it’s technically more complex and not ideal for all patients.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

Recovery Timeline

Days 1–3:

• Moderate pain and swelling.
• Drain care if applicable.
• Take prescribed antibiotics and painkillers.

Days 4–7:

• Swelling subsides gradually.
• Light daily activity possible.
• Stitch removal (if non-absorbable).

Weeks 1–2:

• Most bruising and swelling disappear.
• Resume normal routines (avoid strenuous exercise).

Weeks 3–4:

• Near more natural appearance.
• Begin light scar care.

Months 2–6:

• Temporary numbness resolves.
• Final jawline results visible.

Post-Surgery Care Tips

• Head elevation: Keep your head slightly raised for 48 hours.
• Cold compress: Apply ice packs for 20-minute intervals during the first 2 days.
• Diet: Start with soft, cool foods and gradually return to a normal diet.
• Medication: Take all prescribed drugs as directed.
• Wound care: Keep incision sites clean and dry.
• Activity: Avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for 2 weeks.
• No smoking: Smoking delays healing.
• Scar care: Use doctor-approved scar-reducing products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does It Affect Saliva Production?

No significant impact.
Even after one submandibular gland is removed, the remaining glands compensate, maintaining normal saliva levels.
Mild temporary dryness may occur but resolves within 2–3 weeks.

How Are Scars Managed?

MINE Plastic Surgery uses minimal-incision techniques for nearly invisible scars:

• Under-chin incision: hidden within natural folds.
• Postauricular incision: concealed along the ear and hairline.
  Specialized scar-care programs further minimize visibility.

Is There a Risk of Nerve Damage?

Extremely low (<2%) with experienced surgeons.
The marginal mandibular nerve and lingual nerve are carefully preserved.
Temporary numbness or weakness, if any, typically resolves within 3–6 months.

How Much Does It Cost?

Cost varies by:

• Surgical approach (submandibular vs. facelift).
• Combined procedures.
• Individual anatomy.
• Surgeon expertise and facility standards.
  An exact quote is provided after consultation at MINE Plastic Surgery.

Are the Results Permanent?

Yes. Once removed, the submandibular gland does not grow back.
The contour improvement is permanent, although natural aging and weight changes may subtly alter facial appearance over time.

Conclusion

Salivary gland removal surgery can effectively refine the jawline and enhance facial harmony when performed on appropriate candidates.
For optimal and safe results, it’s crucial to undergo precise evaluation and customized planning by skilled specialists.

At MINE Plastic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, our expert surgeons and state-of-the-art systems ensure tailored, long-lasting results for each patient.

Take the first step toward a sharper, more confident jawline — book a consultation to discover the best jawline refinement solution for you.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified specialist for personalized evaluation and treatment.