DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjmcr.2026.v14i03.013

Pages: 375-381

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign salivary gland tumor, predominantly affecting the parotid gland. Despite its benign nature, surgical excision carries significant risks, notably facial nerve injury and postoperative complications such as Frey’s syndrome. This case report discusses the presentation, diagnosis, surgical management, and postoperative challenges of a long-standing parotid tumor in a male patient, emphasizing the delicate balance between complete tumor removal and preservation of facial nerve function. A 58-year-old male, Mr. Toslim Ali, presented with a ten-year history of a slowly enlarging, painless left parotid swelling extending from the preauricular region to the upper neck. Clinical and imaging findings were consistent with a parotid mass. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) suggested a benign lesion. A superficial parotidectomy was performed under general anesthesia. Intraoperative findings revealed a well-encapsulated mass adherent to the parotid fascia but without evidence of deep lobe invasion. Facial nerve branches were carefully dissected and preserved. Histopathology confirmed pleomorphic adenoma. Postoperatively, the patient recovered without major complications, experiencing only mild transient facial weakness that resolved within four weeks. This case underscores the clinical importance of early surgical intervention in pleomorphic adenoma, meticulous intraoperative dissection for facial nerve preservation, and the need for patient counseling regarding potential complications. The discussion integrates literature on surgical approaches, risk factors, and preventive techniques for parotidectomy-related complications such as facial nerve injury and Frey’s syndrome.