Head & Neck Surgery

What Is An Otolaryngologist?

Otolaryngologists are physicians that are trained in the medical and surgical treatment of patients with diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related areas of the head and neck. They are commonly referred to as ENT specialists and train for six years in residency to become proficient in these areas as well as specializing in facial plastic (cosmetic) and reconstructive surgery as part of their training.

Otolaryngologists treat children and adults with their unique skills.  They diagnose and treat diseases of the ears (otology), nose (rhinology), sinuses, mouth, throat, larynx (voice box), neck and face.  Otolaryngologists are specialty surgeons and frequently perform procedures on the above mentioned areas.

In the head and neck area, otolaryngologists who are also head and neck surgeons as well as facial plastic surgeons, treat infections, benign and malignant tumors, facial trauma, and deformities of the face. They perform both cosmetic facial plastic and reconstructive surgery

Bell's Palsy (facial paralysis)

This is the most common cause of facial weakness, which comes on suddenly.  This disorder is probably caused by a virus, which causes the facial nerve to swell and thus cause facial paralysis.

Treatment usually includes a steroid, antiviral and/or antibiotic.  If the eye is involved (decreased blinking) and cannot fully close, then strict attention must be given to keeping the eye moist and preventing the cornea from drying out.  Artificial tears, lubricants and taping the eye closed may be recommended depending on the severity.

Facial Injuries

Fractures can occur anywhere on the face but most commonly occur in the nose.  Symptoms of fractures include; pain, swelling, bruising (black eye), facial numbness, bleeding or change in shape (crooked nose).  Immediate attention is necessary and applying ice packs and pressure is indicated to reduce early swelling.  Prompt evaluation by an otolaryngologist is necessary since treatment may be needed within 1-2 weeks of the injury.  Besides the nose, the bones around the eye, cheeks and jaw may also be fractured and will also require prompt attention

Nasal fractures may also cause difficulty breathing and a condition called a septal hematoma.  This is a collection of blood inside the nose that if not treated immediately, may cause permanent damage or infection.  Nasal fractures are usually treated within 2 weeks while the bones are still mobile and able to be repaired.
   
Soft tissue injuries (Bruises, cuts and scrapes, lacerations).  Most of these can be treated at home with ice packs and cleansing, but some require medical attention.  If cuts are deep, bleeding excessively, causing deformity or loss of facial movement, them prompt evaluation will be necessary.  Stitches (sutures) may be needed in certain cases to improve the healing process and the eventual scar appearance.