Lump on face

[autumnlove]

I posted on Chat but received no answers.

I've a pea sized hard movable lump next to the front of my ear lobe on my face since 2011. It's under the skin and not painful. I showed 2 doctors but they didn't seemed concerned. It worries me because there were no tests done to check if it's benign. I'm guessing it's on/near the parotid gland.

What do you think?

[Redfluffysocks]

How long ago did you see the doctor? If you've had it that long and it hasn't changed then its probably OK but if its worrying you that much go back and get them to explain just what it is and ask to be referred if they can't.
Hope you get some answers.

[autumnlove]

"Redfluffysocks", thanks for replying. I first had it checked in 2011 and then again in 2014 by 2 different doctors. It hasn't grown any bigger.

I may ask for an ultrasound scan for peace of mind.

[autumnlove]

I got an appt tomorrow. This will be the 3rd time I'm seeing the doctors regarding this lump. I know I shouldn't but goggled tells me that this may be a parotid gland tumor which needs to be removed if that's the case. Any one had any experience of parotid gland tumor?

[autumnlove]

I've seen the doctor this morning and he did say that it's possible that it could be a parotid gland tumor. But the fact that it has not grown and that it feels softer than a tumor, he's hoping it's nothing sinister. I'm getting an ultrasound to check but I'm worried it could be tumor and that I have left it for so long. If I do need to get it remove, what is the procedure? Reassurance, please?

[mumoftwo1975]

I'm going in to have a second op for one of these soon. I had the first removed when I was about 17. Had an mri scan back in August, consultant appointment in Dec then a fine needle aspiration in Jan. Just had follow up on Wednesday. Was told was benign at the moment but can "flip" if I leave it. They (was sent in to see "the Boss") were rather insistent that it's removed soonish as it's grown and become more and more sore. First op done in early 90s some short term facial nerve damage, resulting in numb earlobe permanently. Second due to scar tissue may well be more permanent. I'm sorry to not bring brighter information but tbh Im dreading it as I'm a chicken with anesthetics and really don't want to have it done but needs must. I wish you well xx

[autumnlove]

mumoftwo, hope your 2nd op goes well. Did the lump grow back or this is a new lump?

I left it untreated for over five years. If it is a parotid gland tumour I know there is a small chance it will turn nasty. I should had been more insistent with the doctors when they weren't too concerned.

I was referred on Wednesday to have a scan. I really do hope I don't have to wait too long.

[mumoftwo1975]

Thankyou Autumn, it's another one I believe but they did ask if I'd had the whole gland removed or just the lump, I'm not sure.

I visited my dentist on Monday for a general check up and he's wanting to be kept in the loop too and being thorough with my neck and jaw checks.

I'm lucky really to have seen the right Doctor at the right time who felt it needed checking and made an urgent referral, can't fault them. I really do hope you have your scan soon and get it properly checked.
Im quite aware that mines there from how my face/ear and hearing has changed. It's like there's something inside my ear but they've said its the tumour pushing against the pipework. I know I've got an ear iyswim?
Do let me know how you get on xx