Head and Neck Cancers
Head and neck cancers are serious and potentially life-threatening conditions characterized by the formation of malignant tumors in the head or neck region. These areas are critical for essential bodily functions such as chewing, speaking, swallowing, hearing, and facial expression. Since this region contains many vital structures, tumors can disrupt the nourishment of surrounding tissues, compress adjacent organs, and potentially spread to distant organs like the lungs through metastasis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Surgical interventions, especially in the early stages, are commonly used and may involve advanced microsurgical techniques to ensure both functional and aesthetic integrity.
What Are Head and Neck Cancers?
- Head and neck cancers originate primarily from the mucosal lining of the head and neck or, less commonly, from the salivary glands. These cancers are categorized based on their location:
- Oral Cavity: Includes the lips, tongue, gums, palate, and inner cheeks
- Pharynx (Throat): The tube running from the nasal cavity to the esophagus
- Larynx (Voice Box): Located below the pharynx, houses the vocal cords
- Nasal Cavity & Paranasal Sinuses: Air-filled spaces around the nasal region
- Salivary Glands: Located under the jaw and near the ears
Common Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancers
- Symptoms vary based on the tumor’s location and stage. Common signs include:
- Persistent sores in the mouth or throat
- Changes in voice: hoarseness, throat discomfort
- Chronic bad breath without an obvious cause
- Lumps or swelling in the jaw or neck
- Persistent ear pain, sometimes with hearing loss
- Vision problems: blurred or double vision
- Frequent nosebleeds or chronic nasal congestion
Frequently Asked Questions
• Tobacco Use: Cigarettes, cigars, hookah, or other tobacco products
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption
• HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus is a known risk factor
• Family History of Cancer
• Radiation Exposure: From previous therapies or environmental factors
• Chronic Infections: Long-standing bacterial or viral infections
• Poor Nutrition: Especially deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals
Chemical Exposure: Occupational or environmental contact with harmful agents
• Physical Exam: Palpation and visual inspection of the head and neck
• Endoscopy: Examination using a thin, flexible tube with a camera
• Biopsy: Tissue sample analysis for definitive diagnosis
• Imaging: CT, MRI, PET scans, or ultrasound to assess tumor size and spread
• Blood Tests: To identify cancer-related biomarkers
Yes. Like all malignancies, head and neck cancers can become dangerous if left untreated. They may compress nearby nerves and soft tissues, interfering with vital functions, and can spread to distant organs over time. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a better prognosis.
Yes. Treatment options depend on the location, stage, and type of cancer. Both medical and surgical approaches are used. In early stages, surgery is often the primary treatment.
There is no fixed treatment duration. It varies by patient and cancer type:
• Surgery: Usually completed within a few hours
• Radiotherapy or Chemotherapy: May require several weeks or months
• Surgical Removal: Excision of the tumor, possibly including lymph nodes
• Radiotherapy: High-energy beams to destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy: Drugs to eliminate or inhibit cancer growth
• Targeted Therapy: Medications targeting specific cancer cell markers
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer
Plastic surgeons play a key role in:
• Tumors located on the lips, oral cavity, gums, chin, and facial skin
• Performing surgeries that preserve function and facial aesthetics
• Planning reconstructive procedures using tissue flaps to repair defects
• Managing salivary gland and lymph node removal when necessary
• Supporting post-operative care for facial appearance and function
Absolutely. Treatment depends on:
• Cancer type, location, and stage
• Patient’s overall health
Specific anatomical and cosmetic considerations
While not all cancers are preventable, you can reduce your risk significantly by:
• 🚭 Quitting tobacco and reducing alcohol intake
• 💉 Getting the HPV vaccine
• 🥗 Maintaining a balanced diet
• 🩺 Scheduling regular medical and dental checkups
• ☢️ Avoiding exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals
• 🦷 Practicing good oral hygiene and seeing a dentist regularly
• 🧘 Adopting a healthy lifestyle to support immune function
Dr. Burak Ergün Tatar
Surgery Process
Preliminary Interview
I have a preliminary meeting with my patients without any time constraints.
Planning
The planning of the surgery time is done in collaboration with my patients.
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Operation
I perform the operation in our hospital with high technology and equipment.
Follow-up
As a team, we are in contact with our patients for post-operative check-ups or any adverse events that may occur.
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