saliva gland removal

Question
From reading a previous answer, I know you recommend removal of a saliva gland that keeps filling up.  My question (your opinion)is at what age would you not recommend doing this?  How hard is it to heal on an old dog.  I have a mutt (lhasa/pekinese/shih tzu type mix), his name is Ernie and he is 14 years old.  He has a bunch of little bumps and growths that I have already decided I am not going to have removed.    I have always told myself that I would not put my dogs through lots of medical treatments when they got older (such as if they were diagnosed with cancer), I would just let them go or put them down if they started feeling a significant amount of pain.  

A saliva gland is not a life threatening illness to me, so I am considering having it done.  The dilema in my head is whether (a) I should spent roughly $350 and have it done or (b) just keep asking the doctor to drain it periodically until it is time for him to go.  So, in order to answer my own question, I am trying to get more information on the actual procedure and to ask someone who has had it done, if they would recommend it to a dog of 14 years.

I appreciate any input you have on this subject.  Thank you for time.

Answer
Hi D'Ann,

I don't know what question that I answered you're referring to. Are you taking about removal of a salivary gland cyst?

Since I'm not a doctor, and I've never seen your dog, I couldn't begin to guess at what treatment options would be best.  Your veterinarian can give you the best consultation on treatments for your dog.

Here is info on saliva gland cysts in dogs:

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1631&articleid=475

http://www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/HealthConditions/SmallAnimalTopics/SalivaryMuco...

Best of luck,
Patti