Maxillectomy doctors in India

What is a Maxillectomy?

A maxillectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or part of the upper jaw (maxilla) is removed. The maxilla forms the upper jaw, supports the upper teeth, and contributes to the structure of the nose, eye socket, and roof of the mouth. This surgery is usually performed to treat cancers or severe diseases affecting the upper jaw, nasal cavity, sinuses, or surrounding facial structures.

During the procedure, the surgeon removes the affected portion of the maxilla along with any diseased tissue. In some cases, nearby structures such as the roof of the mouth, teeth, or bones supporting the eye may also be removed depending on the extent of the disease.

Maxillectomy is most commonly used in the treatment of head and neck cancers, tumours of the sinus or palate, and certain severe infections. After surgery, reconstruction or prosthetic devices may be used to help restore appearance and functions such as speech, chewing, and swallowing.

Who May Need a Maxillectomy?

Doctors may recommend a maxillectomy for patients with serious conditions affecting the upper jaw or surrounding structures. Common indications include:

● Cancer of the upper jaw (maxillary cancer)

● Tumors of the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses

● Cancer of the roof of the mouth (hard palate)

● Severe fungal sinus infections affecting facial bones

● Tumors that have spread to nearby structures such as the eye socket, nose, or palate

The doctor will evaluate imaging scans, biopsy results, and the patient’s overall health before recommending this surgery.

Types of Maxillectomy

Depending on the extent of disease and tissue removal required, several types of maxillectomy may be performed:

1. Partial Maxillectomy

Only a portion of the upper jaw is removed while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

2. Total Maxillectomy

The entire maxilla is removed. Reconstruction is usually required to restore facial structure and oral function.

3. Radical Maxillectomy

A more extensive procedure where the maxilla and nearby structures, such as parts of the eye socket or surrounding bones, may also be removed.

4. Medial Maxillectomy

The inner portion of the maxilla is removed, usually to treat tumors in the nasal cavity or sinuses.

The type of surgery depends on the size, location, and stage of the tumor or disease.

Maxillectomy Procedure

A maxillectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting.

1. Preparation

Before surgery, patients may undergo imaging tests, blood tests, and evaluation by a surgical team. Doctors may also discuss reconstruction options.

2. Anesthesia

General anesthesia is administered so the patient remains asleep and pain-free during the procedure.

3. Surgical Incision

The surgeon makes an incision inside the mouth or on the face to access the upper jaw.

4. Removal of the Maxilla

The diseased portion of the upper jaw and surrounding tissue is carefully removed.

5. Reconstruction

Often, surgeons perform reconstructive surgery using bone grafts, tissue flaps, or prosthetic devices to restore normal facial structure and function.

6. Closure

The incision is closed with sutures, and surgical dressings are applied.

The duration of surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether reconstruction is required.

Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery from a maxillectomy depends on the extent of the surgery and reconstruction performed.

Common aspects of recovery include:

● Hospital stays: Often up to 1–2 weeks after surgery.

● Pain management: Medications are given to control discomfort.

● Nutrition support: Some patients may require a feeding tube temporarily during early recovery.

● Soft diet: Patients are usually advised to eat soft foods while the surgical site heals.

● Speech and swallowing therapy: May be recommended to help patients adapt after surgery, particularly to improve their ability to consume soft foods and regain normal swallowing function as they recover.

Full recovery may take several weeks to months depending on the extent of the procedure.

Risks & Possible Complications

Like any major surgery, maxillectomy carries certain risks and potential complications.

Possible risks include the following:

● Bleeding or hematoma

● Infection

● Blood clots

● Nerve damage causing numbness in the cheek

● Watery eyes (epiphora)

● Drooping of the lower eyelid

● Eustachian tube dysfunction

● Changes in speech, swallowing, or facial appearance

Doctors take precautions during surgery and recovery to reduce these risks.