General Head & Neck Ultrasound
This exam assesses accessible neck lumps, lymph nodes, and salivary glands outside the thyroid.
What the exam evaluates
- Superficial lumps or masses
- The parotid and submandibular salivary glands
- Lymph nodes
- Localized swelling or soft-tissue findings
Common reasons for this exam
- A superficial lump or persistent enlarged lymph node.
- Localized salivary-gland swelling.
- Follow-up of a previously identified superficial finding.
Approximate duration
Most exams take about 20 to 30 minutes once approved. You can typically return to normal activities immediately afterward.
What to expect
The sonographer applies gel and moves a handheld probe over your skin. You may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath. Pressure over a tender area can be uncomfortable; tell the sonographer so they can adjust. Ultrasound uses sound waves, with no ionizing radiation. You can usually resume normal activities afterward.
How to prepare
Follow your appointment instructions
- This exam must be scheduled at least three days in advance so the appropriate sonographer can be available.
- No fasting is usually needed. Remove necklaces and tell the sonographer exactly where you feel the lump.
- Wear clothing that gives easy access to the area being scanned. Bring earlier imaging reports and your order, if available.
- Continue prescribed medicines unless your clinician gives different instructions. Tell the team about pain, limited mobility, or positioning needs.
Understanding your results
- Deep neck structures may need CT or MRI, and a persistent adult neck mass may need tissue sampling.
- Do not rely on a reassuring scan alone if a lump persists or grows.
What happens next?
A radiologist interprets the images. Review the report and any recommended next steps with your clinician. The sonographer may not be able to give a diagnosis during the appointment. Persistent symptoms still need follow-up even when the scan is normal.
Sources & further reading
This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.
- Clinical Practice Guideline: Evaluation of the Neck Mass in Adults
Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 2017
Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.
Know the cost before your visit
Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise imaging-center bill.
Self-pay price
One transparent price for this exam. Payment terms are presented before your booking is finalized.
Start bookingOur pricing promise
Transparent self-pay pricing — you see the price before you book.
No surprise bills after your visit.
If your service is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.
A note on what we are. Palmetto Preventive provides non-emergency outpatient diagnostic imaging and laboratory services. We are not an emergency department, urgent care center, hospital, or a substitute for emergency evaluation, and we are not a longitudinal primary-care practice. If you are experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical care or call 911.
Ready to get started?
Start the guided booking. It takes just a few minutes, and you can move back and forth without losing your answers.