Modified rhytidectomy incision for parotidectomy

ObjectiveTo determine if a limited pre- and postauricular incision would suffice for exposure during parotidectomy and assess the patients’ satisfaction with the limited incision.DesignA total of 10 patients undergoing parotidectomy. The patients’ satisfaction with the cosmetic result was then assessed 3 months after the surgery.SettingThe patients were in the first author’s private practice and were all operated upon at New York Hospital Queens.PatientsEach of the parotid tumors was less than 4.5 cm in maximum diameter.InterventionThe incision for the parotidectomy was limited to only a preauricular and postauricular incision.Main outcome measureThe feasibility of the procedure and the patients’ satisfaction 3 months following the procedure were assessed.ResultsThe parotidectomy was easily accomplished through the exposure afforded by the limited incision. All patients were pleased with the cosmetic results.ConclusionThis new, limited approach can be performed safely with favorable acceptance by the patient.