Cancer treatment on the face or head and neck can be life changing, not only medically but emotionally and socially. Surgery to remove skin cancer or head and neck cancer often leaves visible changes that affect how a person looks, speaks, eats, or expresses emotion. Facial plastic surgery after cancer plays an important role in recovery. It focuses on restoring both appearance and function, helping people feel more like themselves again after treatment. This guide explains h

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in New Zealand, and it is not by chance. Aotearoa has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, including both melanoma and non melanoma types. What makes skin cancer on the face or neck particularly concerning is how easily early warning signs can be dismissed. A spot that looks cosmetic, a sore that seems minor, or a patch that slowly changes over time is often ignored until it becomes more serious. This guide expla

Hearing the word “robotic” can sound intimidating, especially when it is linked to cancer surgery. In reality, robotic head and neck surgery is simply a tool that helps experienced surgeons operate with greater precision in delicate areas. The robot does not make decisions or act on its own. Every movement is carefully controlled by our Auckland Head and Neck Associates’ surgeons with decades of experience. Keep reading to learn how robotic head and neck cancer surgery works,

Most neck lumps turn out to be related to infection or benign thyroid changes. However, thyroid cancer is one possible cause, and understanding its main types and treatments can help you know when a neck lump may need medical review. Keep reading this blog to find out the main types of thyroid cancer, the symptoms they may cause, and how each is treated at AHNA Neck Lump Clinic . Key takeaways Most thyroid nodules are benign, but some develop into thyroid cancer and need spec

Finding a small lump on the back of your neck can be unsettling, especially when you don’t know what’s causing it. While most neck lumps are benign and related to common infections or skin issues, some lumps do require prompt medical review. This guide breaks down the most common causes, how location affects risk, red flags to watch for, and when to see a neck lump specialist at Auckland Head & Neck Associates .   Common causes of small lump on the back of the neck Many small

Reconstructive surgery is an important part of healing after head and neck cancer treatment. It helps restore function, supports long-term comfort, and can rebuild confidence after life-changing procedures. Many people feel overwhelmed when they first hear about reconstruction, so this Auckland Head & Neck Associates (AHNA guide explains the main options in simple terms and helps you understand what to expect on your recovery journey.   What is reconstructive surgery after h

Most sore throats get better on their own, but some symptoms last longer than expected and deserve closer attention. Certain changes in your throat, voice or swallowing can be early warning signs of throat cancer, especially when they continue for several weeks. Knowing what to look for helps you understand when it is time to take action. This guide outlines the most common throat cancer symptoms, how to spot them early and why seeking medical advice promptly matters. What ar

Finding a lump in your neck can be worrying, especially if you do not know what it means. Thyroid nodules are extremely common, and in most cases, they are not dangerous. Still, it is important to understand what thyroid nodules are, why they form, and when you should see a specialist. This guide breaks down everything you need to know. What are thyroid nodules? Thyroid nodules are growths or lumps that develop within the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ located

It is easy to notice when something feels “off” in your throat, mouth or neck, but not always easy to know what it means. Head and neck cancers can begin quietly, with symptoms that look like everyday issues. The earlier they are found, the better the outcomes, which is why awareness matters.Here is a simple, supportive guide to the symptoms worth paying attention to and when to seek expert advice from our experienced head and neck surgeons in Auckland . Why do early symptom

If you have been told you may need thyroid surgery or you have noticed a lump in your neck that will not go away, it is completely normal to have questions. Endocrine surgery can sound technical, but at its core, it is about helping people feel well again by treating the glands that keep your hormones in balance. Below, we walk through what endocrine surgery involves, why it is sometimes recommended, and when is the right time to see a professional. What is endocrine surgery?

Noticing a lump on your neck can feel unsettling, especially if it seems to appear out of nowhere. The good news is that most neck lumps are harmless and often linked to everyday issues like infections. Still, some lumps do need a closer look, so understanding the common neck lump causes can help you decide when it is time to seek advice. This guide explains the most common causes, symptoms that need attention, and what to expect when you visit a specialist at Auckland Head &

There are several different types of thyroid cancers and they are broadly broken into categories based on the cells that they originate...

What are Thyroid Nodules? A thyroid nodule is a radiologically distinct entity that appears different to the surrounding thyroid...

Specialist Assessment At our “One Stop” Neck Lump Clinic you will be seen by either Dr John Chaplin or Dr Joseph Earles, both highly...

HPV Related Oropharyngeal SCC (OPSCC) There has been a two fold increase in the incidence of throat cancer (tonsil and base of tongue)...