Onco Life Hospitals

Satara – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery FAQs

1. Who is the best maxillofacial surgeon in Pune?

Dr. Prasad Kaware is widely recognized for his skill and experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery. With over 18 years of practice including international experience as Head of Dentistry in Saudi Arabia, he now provides full-time expert care at Onco-Life Cancer Centre.

2. Can a maxillofacial surgeon also be a plastic or cosmetic surgeon?

Yes, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are specially trained to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries of the face, jaw, mouth, and neck, especially for patients affected by oral cancer, trauma, or facial deformities.

3. Can a maxillofacial surgeon do rhinoplasty (nose reshaping)?

No, rhinoplasty is usually performed by an ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) specialist or a plastic surgeon trained specifically in nasal surgery.

4. What are the most common causes of mouth cancer?

The leading causes include:

  • Tobacco in any form (smoking, gutkha, pan masala, betel nut)
  • Alcohol use
  • Chronic irritation from sharp teeth or ill-fitting dentures
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Family history (hereditary factors)
  • HPV infection in some cases

5. What is the cost of mouth cancer treatment in India?

The cost varies depending on:

  • Stage and type of cancer
  • Treatment required (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, etc.)
  • Hospital facilities and duration of treatment
    At Onco-Life Cancer Centre, we offer affordable treatment plans, and cashless insurance, and support for government schemes is available.

6. Is oral cancer treatable if detected early?

Yes, if detected early, oral cancer can be treated effectively, often with surgery and radiation. Early detection increases the chance of a complete cure and better quality of life.

7. What are the signs of mouth cancer I should not ignore?

Be alert to:

  • Non-healing ulcers in the mouth
  • Lumps or thick patches inside the mouth
  • Pain while chewing or swallowing
  • Red or white patches in the oral cavity
  • Persistent bad breath or bleeding

8. What is the role of a maxillofacial surgeon in cancer care?

They perform surgeries to remove tumors, reconstruct the face or jaw, restore oral function, and improve appearance and quality of life after cancer surgery.

9. How long is the recovery after oral cancer surgery?

Recovery depends on the type of surgery performed. Basic procedures may take a few days, while complex reconstructive surgeries may need a few weeks. Our team offers rehabilitation and dental prosthesis support after surgery.

10. Can oral cancer recur after treatment?

Yes, like many cancers, oral cancer can recur if not monitored properly. That’s why regular follow-ups and screenings are crucial even after successful treatment.

11. How can I prevent mouth cancer?

  • Quit tobacco and alcohol
  • Maintain good oral hygiene
  • Get regular dental check-ups
  • Address sharp teeth or ill-fitting dentures
  • Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure to the lips

12. Can I eat normally after maxillofacial surgery?

Depending on the surgery, you may need to follow a soft or liquid diet initially. Our dietitians and doctors will guide you to resume normal eating comfortably.

13. Is mouth cancer painful?

In early stages, mouth cancer may not be painful, which is why people often ignore it. As it progresses, it may cause pain, difficulty in swallowing, or speaking, and visible sores.

14. Will my appearance change after oral cancer surgery?

Modern surgical methods at Onco-Life Cancer Centre focus on preserving appearance and function. If needed, reconstructive or cosmetic surgery is offered to restore aesthetics and confidence.

15. Does Onco-Life Cancer Centre offer oral cancer screening?

Yes. We conduct regular oral cancer screening camps, awareness drives, and tobacco cessation programs to help with early detection and prevention.