Common Procedures and Areas of Specialisation

ENT surgeons, also known as otolaryngologists, are specialist medical practitioners who diagnose and treat conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck structures.

Their work includes both non-surgical and surgical management of conditions that impact breathing, hearing, speech, sleep and sinus health.

What Is an ENT Surgeon?

An ENT surgeon (Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon) is a doctor who has completed medical training followed by accredited specialist surgical education through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS).

They are qualified to manage a wide range of conditions using medical, procedural and surgical techniques.

ENT surgeons in Australia complete:

• A recognised medical degree (typically 5–6 years).
• Several years of general surgical experience.
• Specialist fellowship training in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (usually 5–7 years).
• Continuous professional development through the RACS and the Australian Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (ASOHNS).

Common Surgeries Performed by ENT Specialists

ENT surgeons perform a variety of functional and reconstructive procedures addressing both medical and anatomical issues.

Some commonly performed surgeries include:

• Septoplasty: Straightening the nasal septum to improve airflow.
• Sinus surgery: Clearing blockages to improve drainage and relieve sinus symptoms.
• Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy: Removing tonsils or adenoids when they cause chronic infection or sleep apnoea.
• Myringotomy with grommet insertion: Treating fluid buildup in the middle ear (often called “glue ear”).
• Otoplasty: Correcting ear deformities or protrusion for functional or reconstructive purposes.
• Nasal reconstruction or repair: Restoring nasal function or structure following trauma or congenital deformity.
• Sleep disorder surgery: Managing airway obstruction contributing to sleep apnoea.

Some ENT surgeons with additional subspecialty training may also perform procedures such as rhinoplasty or facial reconstruction, particularly when related to trauma, breathing difficulty or structural imbalance.

Note: Procedures such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) are typically performed for functional reasons only, such as when excess skin impairs vision, and must be assessed by an appropriately qualified surgeon.

Conditions Managed by ENT Surgeons

ENT surgeons treat a broad spectrum of medical conditions, including:

• Chronic sinusitis.
• Nasal obstruction or deviated septum.
• Ear infections and hearing loss.
• Sleep disorders and snoring.
• Tonsillitis and throat infections.
• Vertigo and balance disorders.
• Head, neck and voice conditions.
• Nasal or facial trauma.

They may work closely with other specialists, such as allergists, audiologists, speech pathologists and respiratory physicians, to provide multidisciplinary care.

Before Surgery: Patient Education and Consultation

Prior to any surgical procedure, ENT surgeons conduct detailed consultations to ensure patients are fully informed.

These discussions cover:

• Medical history and physical examination.
• The nature and purpose of the proposed procedure.
• Potential risks and complications.
• Recovery expectations and required aftercare.

Patients must be given sufficient time to consider their options, ask questions, and provide informed consent before proceeding with any treatment.

Postoperative Care and Follow-up

ENT surgeons provide ongoing care after surgery to support recovery and monitor healing.

This may include:

• Regular follow-up appointments.
• Wound and medication management.
• Guidance on activity restrictions.
• Monitoring for complications such as infection or bleeding.

Following these postoperative instructions helps support recovery and reduce potential risks.

About Dr Shahidi

Dr Shahram Shahidi

BSC(MED)(HON I) MB BS(SYD) FRACS FAAFPS

MED0001167352

Specialist Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat) – Head and Neck Surgeon

Member, Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained, FRACS-qualified ENT surgeon with over 20 years of experience in nasal, sinus and facial surgery.

He provides assessment and management of conditions affecting nasal function, breathing and sinus health.

Disclaimer:

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Individual outcomes vary.

Before proceeding, patients are encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.