What Are the Common Surgeries Performed by an ENT?

What Are the Common Surgeries Performed by an ENT?

ENT surgeons, or otolaryngologists, are medical professionals specialising in treating conditions related to the ear, nose and throat. This post delves into their daily responsibilities, the path to becoming an ENT surgeon in Australia and the common surgeries they perform.

What is an ENT surgeon?

An ENT surgeon is qualified in both diagnosing and treating ear, nose and throat conditions. They use various methods, from medication to surgical interventions, to address these issues.

Some of the primary surgeries an ENT surgeon performs include:

  • Rhinoplasty: This procedure, commonly referred to as nasal surgery, focuses on correcting and reconstructing the nose for improved function and form.
  • Nasal reconstruction: This involves repairing the nasal structure, often necessitated by injury or congenital issues.
  • Otoplasty: This surgery is aimed at correcting ear deformities to improve function and appearance.
  • Blepharoplasty: In this procedure, surgeons address issues with the eyelids, often to rectify impairments affecting vision.
  • Sinus surgery: This surgery is performed to alleviate sinus conditions, enhancing breathing and relieving discomfort.
  • Sleep disorder surgery: Addressing various sleep disorders, this surgery can include procedures like tonsillectomies or the insertion of grommets.

ENT surgeons perform a variety of procedures, with a focus on both functional and structural issues of the ear, nose and throat. Common surgeries include sinus surgery, which aims to alleviate sinus blockages and improve breathing, tonsillectomy for chronic tonsillitis or sleep apnoea management, and myringotomy with grommet insertion to address fluid buildup in the ear, commonly known as glue ear.

Additionally, ENT surgeons with specialised training may perform procedures like rhinoplasty, otoplasty and blepharoplasty. These surgeries are often conducted for medical reasons, such as improving nasal breathing or correcting structural irregularities, and are tailored to each patient’s specific needs. They also ensure these procedures align with the overall health goals and lifestyle of the patient, emphasising on improving functionality. Furthermore, surgeons utilise the latest techniques to ensure minimal discomfort and downtime.

ENT surgeons are equipped to handle a broad spectrum of surgeries related to the ear, nose, throat, sinuses and larynx, prioritising patient safety and individualised care.

Otolaryngologists: Qualifications, procedures, and conditions

Otolaryngologists, commonly known as ENT surgeons, are medical professionals trained in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the ear, nose and throat. This includes a range of surgeries aimed at addressing specific medical needs in these areas.

Conditions treated by ENT surgeons include:

  • Ear infections
  • Sleep disorders
  • Sinusitis
  • Nose injuries and infections
  • Vertigo
  • Head and neck pain
  • Speech and swallowing disorders
  • Tonsillitis

The training pathway for an ENT surgeon in Australia involves extensive medical education. Their comprehensive training starts with 5–6 years of medical school, followed by a fellowship involving several years of focused training and exams across various specialties. After this, a 1–3 year residency provides hands-on hospital experience. Finally, they undergo 3–7 years of specialised otolaryngology training. This extensive education ensures they are well-equipped to diagnose and treat conditions like ear infections, sleep disorders, sinusitis and more, with a high level of expertise.

ENT surgeons might further specialise in subfields such as allergy treatment, paediatric otolaryngology or specific surgical techniques, enhancing their expertise in particular areas of this medical specialty.

Before your procedure: Patient education and pre-surgical consultation

In their role, ENT surgeons actively engage in patient education and conduct comprehensive pre-surgical consultations. They ensure patients fully grasp their condition, the surgical procedure, associated risks and the recovery process.

By discussing each patient’s unique situation, answering questions and obtaining informed consent, ENT surgeons empower patients to make informed healthcare decisions and set realistic expectations for surgical outcomes.

ENT surgeons and multidisciplinary collaboration

ENT surgeons actively collaborate with specialists like allergists, audiologists and speech therapists to offer comprehensive care for complex conditions. They may join forces with allergists to manage conditions impacting ENT health, work with audiologists on hearing issues and partner with speech therapists for speech and swallowing disorders. This collaborative approach ensures a holistic treatment plan, addressing every aspect of a patient’s ENT health for patient-centred care.

After your procedure: Postoperative care and follow-up

ENT surgeons take a proactive role in postoperative care and follow-up. They provide detailed care instructions post-surgery to facilitate a smooth and effective recovery. They schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s progress, address complications and evaluate the success of the procedure.

By stressing the importance of following post-surgery guidelines, including medication management and wound care, they actively support patients in achieving optimal recovery and satisfaction with their surgical experience.

Choose a qualified ENT surgeon in Australia: Get in touch with Dr Shahidi

If you’re in search of a highly qualified ENT surgeon in Australia, consider a specialist like Dr Shahidi. Holding the esteemed Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), Dr Shahidi exemplifies the highest standards of surgical education and practice in Australia. His team is committed to providing excellent patient care and is ready to assist you in your healthcare journey.

To learn more about his expertise and services, or to schedule a consultation, feel free to contact Dr Shahidi’s office.