The primary goal of tumour follow-up in head and neck cancer patients treated with curative intent is the early diagnosis and treatment of local recurrence. Metachronous second cancers or possible distant metastases should also be detected promptly in order to potentially initiate palliative therapy. The literature shows that the majority of recurrences occur within the first 2 years after completed tumour therapy. In this case, most recurrences are detected either by the patient in the case of new symptoms, by mirror laryngoscopy, or by abnormalities in control imaging. Clinical and endoscopic examination with symptom-oriented medical history, B‑scan sonography of the soft tissues of the neck and supplementary radiological staging examinations of distant metastases represent the three essential pillars of tumour aftercare for head and neck cancer, usually performed over a period of 5 years. For the first 2.5 years of the follow-up period, control examinations should take place at 3‑month intervals. After an inconspicuous first half of the follow-up period, the intervals can be extended to 6–12 months. The modality of annual radiological restaging depends on the primary tumour region and extension and should be individually planned. In addition to head and neck surgeons working at specialised tumour centres and those in private practice, radiotherapists, radiologists, maxillofacial surgeons, dermatologists, speech therapists, physical therapists, nuclear medicine specialists, phoniatrists, nutritionists and psychologists are also involved in the follow-up of this tumour entity. Ultimately, oncological aftercare also serves the goal of optimising the quality of life of affected patients by recognising and treating treatment-associated side effects.