Head and Neck Masses

A lump or swelling in the neck may be a sign of a benign growth or, in some cases, head and neck cancer. At SPRING ENT, Dr. Paul Spring brings advanced training and experience in diagnosing and treating both non-cancerous and cancerous neck masses with precision and care.

What Are Head and Neck Masses & When Should You Seek Treatment?

A head or neck mass refers to any abnormal lump or swelling found in areas like the neck, jawline, throat, thyroid, or salivary glands. While many of these masses are benign—such as cysts, enlarged lymph nodes, or infections—some can be the first sign of a more serious condition, including head and neck cancers.

Common signs to watch for include:

  • A persistent or growing lump in the neck
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Ear pain or fullness
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Enlarged lymph nodes lasting longer than 2–3 weeks

Early evaluation is critical, as cancers of the head and neck often begin silently and can spread quickly if not diagnosed early. If you discover a neck mass, don’t wait—prompt assessment by a specialist is essential.

How We Treat Head and Neck Masses at SPRING ENT:

Dr. Paul Spring is one of only a few dedicated head and neck surgeons in Louisiana, with specialized training from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and two years of fellowship in the surgical treatment of cancers in the upper aerodigestive tract.

At SPRING ENT, your evaluation may include:

  • A thorough head and neck examination
  • Imaging (ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI)
  • Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy for diagnosis
  • Endoscopic evaluation when needed

Treatment depends on the diagnosis but may involve:

  • Monitoring for benign, stable masses
  • Surgical removal of cysts, tumors, or glands when necessary
  • Coordinated cancer care, including minimally invasive surgery for malignant tumors
  • Referral and collaboration with oncology when appropriate

We focus on personalized, efficient, and compassionate care—helping patients understand their condition and receive timely, effective treatment.