Frey's syndrome following parotid surgery.

Twenty-one patients were followed up with a home visit after having parotid surgery at the Westmead Centre between January 1988 and October 1989. Nine of these patients (42.8%) had objective gustatory sweating as proven by Minor's Starch Iodine Test, with three of these (14.3%) having symptoms of Frey's syndrome. Symptoms started an average of 4.3 months after surgery. None of the three were anxious enough about their symptoms to seek medical treatment. Those patients with objective gustatory sweating were more likely to be women. No statistical significance was found in regard to the presence or absence of greater auricular nerve section, facial nerve paresis, age or type of operation (superficial parotidectomy or otherwise). Frey's syndrome is a benign condition and explanation and reassurance are usually adequate therapy.