The parotid gland is the largest of the salivary glands, all of which produce saliva to help lubricate the oral cavity during meals. It is located just anterior to the ear, with extensions behind the ear and inferiorly into the upper neck.The most common indication for parotidectomy is tumors in the gland; the operation is rarely performed for severe, recurrent infections within the gland. Fortunately, most parotid tumors (85-90%) are benign.t is located just anterior to the ear, with extensions behind the ear and inferiorly into the upper neck. The most common indication for parotidectomy is tumors in the gland; the operation is rarely performed for severe, recurrent infections within the gland. Fortunately, most parotid tumors (85-90%) are benign.