Head and Neck Surgery
Specialist Consultant in London
Expert Head and Neck Surgery in London
At Axel Head and Neck, we provide expert head and neck surgery tailored to the needs of patients in London and beyond. Led by Mr Axel Sahovaler, an experienced consultant head and neck surgeon with international training and extensive clinical experience, we deliver advanced surgical treatment for a wide range of head and neck conditions with precision, compassion, and the highest standards of care.
What is Head and Neck Surgery?
Head and neck surgery is a specialised surgical field focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, abnormalities and injuries of the head, face, jaw and neck. This includes both benign and malignant conditions, reconstructive surgery, minimally invasive approaches and complex cancer resections.
Our comprehensive approach covers everything from initial consultation and diagnosis through to surgery and post-operative care.
What Are The Head and Neck Conditions We Teat?
At Axel Head and Neck, we provide a comprehensive range of specialist head and neck treatments in London, delivered by an experienced consultant surgeon with advanced training in oncology and reconstructive surgery.
Our related treatment pages include:
Head and Neck Surgery
Comprehensive surgical treatment for head and neck cancer, neck lumps, salivary gland disorders and complex reconstructive needs. Learn more about our specialist consultant-led surgical care in London.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
A minimally invasive procedure used in early head and neck cancer staging to assess lymph node spread and guide further treatment decisions.
Reconstructive Microsurgery
Advanced free flap reconstruction for complex head and neck defects following cancer surgery or trauma, restoring function and appearance.
Mandibular Reconstruction
Specialist jaw reconstruction surgery to restore speech, chewing and facial symmetry after mandibular tumour removal or bone loss.
Oral Cavity Lesions
Expert assessment, biopsy and treatment of mouth ulcers, leukoplakia and early oral cancer by a London head and neck consultant.
Parotid Tumour Treatment
Specialist diagnosis and parotidectomy surgery for benign and malignant salivary gland tumours, with careful facial nerve preservation.
Mr. Axel Sahovaler
Axel has a unique combination of training and practice in North America, working in very high-volume academic head and neck surgery centers. He has since moved to London, where he has formed a team with Professor Mark McGurk, perfecting minimally invasive techniques in salivary gland surgery. His independent practice is at London Bridge Hospital and his NHS base is at University College London Hospital where his research and teaching take place.
Why Choose Our Head and Neck Surgery Consultant
Specialist London Head and Neck Surgeon
Mr Axel Sahovaler is a consultant head and neck surgeon based in London with unique international training, including fellowship experience in head and neck oncology and reconstructive microsurgery. His skill set includes advanced reconstructive procedures and minimally invasive techniques informed by global practice experience.
He provides personalised surgical plans based on the latest evidence and techniques to ensure high-quality results for each patient.
Advanced Surgical Expertise
We use evidence-based methods and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including radiology, oncology and specialist nursing, to deliver seamless care throughout your treatment journey.
Our focus includes:
- Minimising surgical risk
- Reducing recovery time
- Preserving function and quality of life
- Utilising modern diagnostic and surgical tools such as 3D-guided surgery techniques
Location
Patients are seen in the clinics at the heart of London with offices at the Shard and Harley St. Surgery taking place at London Bridge Hospital. Conveniently located on the Southbank at London Bridge, it has multiple transport links including bus, underground and national rail services.
For more information and enquiries
Head and Neck Cancer Surgery
Surgery is a core element of head and neck cancer treatment, aimed at completely removing cancerous tissue and, where needed, reconstructing affected areas to restore appearance and function. Reconstructive techniques may involve free tissue transfer or other microsurgical methods.
Our surgical approach includes careful planning to improve outcomes and reduce long-term impacts on speech, swallowing and appearance.
London Locations and Consultant Access
We see patients in central London, with clinics conveniently located in prestigious medical centres such as:
- The Shard, St Thomas’ Street, London SE1 9BS
- 9 Harley Street, London W1G 9QY
- Surgical procedures are carried out in state-of-the-art facilities including London Bridge Hospital.
These central locations make it easier for patients throughout London and the UK to access world-class head and neck surgical care.
What to Expect: Consultation to Recovery
From your first consultation with our head and neck surgery consultant, you will be guided through:
- Detailed assessment and diagnosis
- Discussion of all surgical and non-surgical treatment options
- Clear explanation of risks, benefits and recovery timelines
- Personalised treatment planning tailored to your needs
- Compassionate post-operative support and follow-up
We prioritise clarity, comfort and continuity of care at every step.
Patient Experience and Testimonials
Many patients come to us with complex head and neck problems, and their feedback highlights our commitment to compassionate care and excellent outcomes. Patients consistently describe the reassurance, clear treatment explanations and personalised attention they receive throughout their surgical journey.
Parotid & Neck Cancer Surgery - Full Facial Nerve Preservation
Life-Changing Support & Restored Hope
Oral Cancer Surgery for Our Son
Mandibular Reconstruction - Family Testimonial
Compassionate Care Before & After Surgery
Surgical Oncologist – Precision, Reassurance & Excellent Outcomes
Book a Head and Neck Surgery Consultation
If you or a loved one is seeking specialist head and neck surgery in London, contact us to arrange a consultation with our experienced consultant surgeon. We can help you understand your condition, outline your treatment options, and support you on your path to recovery.
Contact us today to book your appointment.
Latest updates
This study, Incidence and predictive factors for positive non-sentinel lymph nodes in completion neck dissection following a positive sentinel node biopsy in early oral cancer, continues to explore sentinel lymph node biopsy as a diagnostic tool, helping surgeons to plan the right treatment while reducing the need for a larger surgery, which means fewer side effects, faster recovery, and less risk of long-term problems like shoulder stiffness or numbness.
A recent BBC News story highlighted Mr Axel Sahovaler’s successful surgery to remove a parotid gland tumour while preserving the patient’s facial nerve. The patient, Suzy Spence, praised Mr Sahovaler and his team as “heroes” for saving her smile. The procedure required meticulous planning and microsurgical precision to safely remove the tumour and restore both form and function.
This study reports a novel approach to the most common type of head and neck cancer. Utilizing a nanoparticle developed at the Toronto General Hospital/TECHNA institute, enabled fluorescence guided surgery and photodynamic therapy treatment in three different species of rodents with the head and neck cancers.
Ultrasound-guided wire localization (USGW) is a safe and effective technique for surgeons to locate small, hidden tumors in the head and neck during revision surgery. This study describes five successful cases where USGW helped surgeons find tumors they could not feel by touch.
This study investigated the impact of surgical margins on survival in adults with head and neck osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. The findings suggest that achieving negative margins (greater than 3mm of healthy tissue removed around the tumor) during surgery is associated with improved survival and reduced tumor recurrence. The study also highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach that may include chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.
This study analysed the properties of a novel nerve to be used as donor site for facial paralysis reanimation after cancer surgery, representing a very promising option without side effects for patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a head and neck surgeon treat?
A head and neck surgeon treats conditions affecting the mouth, throat, salivary glands, jaw, thyroid and neck. This includes head and neck cancer, oral cavity lesions, parotid tumours, neck lumps and complex reconstructive needs.
When should I see a head and neck consultant in London?
You should see a specialist consultant if you have a persistent lump in the neck, unexplained mouth ulcers lasting more than three weeks, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or a diagnosed head and neck tumour requiring expert surgical treatment.
What treatments are included in head and neck surgery?
Head and neck surgery includes tumour removal, neck dissection, sentinel lymph node biopsy, salivary gland surgery, oral cancer surgery, reconstructive microsurgery and mandibular reconstruction. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient.
Is head and neck surgery only for cancer?
No. While head and neck cancer treatment is a major part of this specialty, surgeons also treat benign tumours, cysts, salivary gland disorders, facial skin cancers and other non-cancerous conditions.
How long is recovery after head and neck surgery?
Recovery depends on the complexity of the procedure. Minor surgeries may require only a short recovery period, while complex cancer and reconstructive procedures may require a longer hospital stay and rehabilitation.
Why choose a specialist head and neck surgeon in London?
Choosing a consultant with dedicated training in head and neck surgery ensures access to advanced surgical techniques, multidisciplinary cancer care, and personalised treatment in leading London hospitals.