Jaw Pain

After any parotid gland surgery, there will be scar tissue formation and some stretching and disruption of the fascia, which is a sheet of connective tissue that covers some of the muscles in the parotid region. It is not unusual for patients to have an aching feeling in the parotid area, ear, or throat due to the development of scar tissue or fascia disruption.

The pain can be worse with chewing, eating, swallowing, yawning, or turning of the neck. This discomfort generally improves over several months and can be helped with heat, massage, or mild anti-inflammatory medications.