Prof. Dr. Günter Hafız Ear, Nose & Throat · Head & Neck Surgery

Ear, Nose & Throat · Head & Neck Surgery · Istanbul

Oral Cavity & Tongue Cancer in Istanbul

An ulcer that will not heal, a white or red patch, a lump in the mouth — small findings that deserve serious attention early.

When to be examined

A mouth ulcer that has not healed in a few weeks, a persistent patch or lump on the tongue, cheek or gums, or unexplained pain when chewing deserve examination. Most turn out to be harmless; the examination is how you know.

Diagnosis and treatment

Prof. Dr. Hafız examines the mouth and throat, takes or reviews a biopsy where needed, and explains the findings clearly. When a tumour is confirmed, surgery to remove it is planned around your speech and swallowing, with reconstruction — including microvascular reconstruction — where removing the tumour leaves tissue to rebuild. The neck's lymph nodes are assessed as part of every plan.

Are most mouth ulcers cancer?
No — most heal on their own within two weeks. It is the ulcer that stays that needs examination.
Will treatment affect my speech or eating?
It depends on the tumour's size and place. Protecting speech and swallowing shapes the surgical plan, and Prof. Dr. Hafız explains what to expect in your case before deciding together.
Is a biopsy painful?
A biopsy of the mouth is a small procedure done with local anaesthesia. It is brief, and it gives the answer everything else depends on.

Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Günter Hafız, Professor of Otorhinolaryngology — 08/2026

Appointments

Talk it through in person

Consultations Monday to Saturday at Selenium Plaza, Beşiktaş. In Turkish or English, and by WhatsApp from abroad.

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