How Fear of Scars in Head and Neck Cancers Delays Treatment – And What Doctors Are Doing About It

One of the most common concerns patients have is will they be left with a visible scar on their face/neck. This fear is very real and, unfortunately, it often causes patients to delay or even avoid correct line of treatment. An individual’s identity is by his or her face and any change in this can cause further psychological stress to an already diagnosed cancer patient. In head and neck cancer where appearance, speech, and swallowing functions are deeply interconnected with treatment, patients worry about disfigurement and social stigma arising out of getting treated surgically. This delay in seeking treatment can allow the disease to progress to advanced stages making treatment more complex and outcomes less favorable.

This is where Robot assisted surgery has transformed the landscape of head and neck cancer treatment. Unlike conventional open surgery, which may require large incisions on the face or neck, robot-assisted surgery allows us to access tumors through the mouth (TORS) or with minimal hidden incisions not lying on face or neck. This means the external scarring is not visible.


Robotic systems provide us with 3D visualization and precise, fine movements that are too difficult with the human hand alone. This precision is critical in the head and neck region, where vital nerves, blood vessels and various important tissues are closely packed. With robotic surgery, we can remove cancer effectively while preserving important functions like speech, swallowing, and cosmetic facial appearance with minimal morbidity.

Compared to traditional operations, patients experience fewer complications, less discomfort, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays in addition to aesthetic benefits. Many are able to return to their daily lives faster, without the burden of any scars or prolonged rehabilitation. There are many studies that have suggested that patients undergoing robot assisted neck dissection have better visual scar satisfaction score.

Neck dissection is integral part of any surgical treatment head -neck and especially oral cancer. With the use of trans axillary approach (BABA) there is virtually no scar on the face and neck areas in indicated cases. Procedures like TORS have also brought down morbidity of treating pharyngeal malignancies surgically. With the use of this cutting-edge technology, we can precisely treat tumors, maintain vital processes, and give patients the assurance that there will be little to no apparent scarring.


The main takeaway for patients is to not let their fear of scarring to prevent them from receiving therapy. With the use of modern technologies like robotic surgery, we may successfully treat cancer while maintaining our dignity and looks. Better results are always achieved with an early diagnosis and prompt, appropriate therapy. Delays in therapy leave scars that are far larger than those after surgery.

By: Dr. Yash Mathur, Consultant- Head & Neck Surgical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali