Onco Life Hospitals

Oral & Maxillofacial Unit

Oral & Maxillofacial Unit

Head and Neck Cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in India. It often affects vital areas like the mouth, jaw, face, and throat. Unfortunately, many patients’ undergoing surgery for these cancers are left with facial or oral deformities that can impact how they eat, speak, and look—greatly affecting their quality of life.

To support these patients, Onco-Life Cancer Centre has set up a dedicated Oral & Maxillofacial Unit right within the hospital. This department plays a vital role in the rehabilitation and recovery of cancer patients, especially after surgery and before or during radiation therapy.

Key Services Offered
  • Oral Rehabilitation After Cancer Surgery
    Helps restore function and appearance of the face and jaw post-surgery, improving the patient’s confidence and quality of life.
  • Pre-Radiation Dental Evaluation
    Ensures the patient’s oral health is prepared before starting radiation therapy to avoid complications like infections or jaw problems.
  • Routine Dental Care
    General dental procedures are also offered to maintain good oral hygiene and health during and after cancer treatment.
  • Prosthetic Support
    Custom-made dental prostheses and oral appliances are provided to help patients eat, speak, and look better after cancer surgery.
Additional Initiatives
  • Oral Cancer Screening Camps
    Conducted regularly to detect early signs of oral cancer, especially among high-risk individuals.
  • Tobacco Cessation Programs
    Educating and supporting patients and the public to quit tobacco use—a major cause of oral cancer.
  • Awareness Drives
    Community education on oral hygiene and early symptoms of oral cancer to encourage timely diagnosis and treatment.
Benefits for Cancer Patients
  • Restores function and facial aesthetics after surgery
  • Reduces side effects and complications during radiation therapy
  • Improves ability to chew, swallow, and speak
  • Enhances emotional and psychological recovery
  • Increases chances of early detection through screening programs
Department Timings:

Days: Monday – Saturday
Time: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Most Popular Questions

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. 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.