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Otolaryngologist |
Career OverviewThe medical title for an ear, nose and throat specialist is an otolaryngologist or often referred to as an ENT. Otolaryngologists diagnosis and medically and surgically treat patients with disorders and diseases of the ear, nose and throat, upper alimentary and respiratory system along with other related structures of the neck and head.
Otolaryngologist skills include not only diagnosing but also managing diseases of the ear, nose and throat and structures of the face and neck such as upper pharynx, sinuses, larynx and oral cavity. Some of the more common problems that they handle are tonsillectomies, infected mastoids, adenoidectomies, and sinus problems. With the technically advanced audio logic equipment otolaryngologist’s use, they are able to diagnose causes of hearing loss in patients.
General otolaryngologists treat all disorders but an otolaryngologist may choose to train in one of the subspecialties. In pediatric otolaryngology, they work on diagnosing and treating children with disorders and diseases of the ear, nose, throat, voice, language, hearing and speech.
An otolaryngologist that specializes in ears normally treats ear infections, nerve disorders of the face and crania, tinnitus, hearing disorders and nerve pain. Cochlear implants and microsurgery is now able to help correct deafness.
As otolaryngologists are both surgeons and specialists, they not only treat diseases of the esophagus, upper aero-digestive tract and larynx but also perform surgery on tumors of the neck, head and voice box.
They also treat patients with chronic sinusitis, restore a patient’s sense of smell, alleviate allergies and treat people with upper respiratory allergic disorders. They use equipment such as x-ray machines, audiometers, fluoroscopes and prisms to examine affected organs. An otolaryngologist specializing in the neck and head treat tumors, infectious diseases, deformities and facial trauma.
Along with reconstructive surgery, some otolaryngologists are involved in plastic surgery. They use advanced techniques for face and brow lifts, scar camouflaging, nose resizing, hair transplants and chin augmentation.
Otolaryngologists that work in hospitals or on call often work very long hours. The ones in private practice set their own hours so have a more flexible workload.
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Career RequirementsAfter completing four years of medical school, an otolaryngologist must then complete another year in general surgery training. They spend an additional four years training in otolaryngology. If an otolaryngologist chooses a subspecialty area then they spend another two years training.
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Job OutlookMany otolaryngologists just starting out often choose a salaried job working in large hospitals or health networks. There is an ongoing need for otolaryngologists as the population increases and technology advances. Many medical professional prefer large cities and find low income and rural areas unappealing because of the isolation and work hours, so there are opportunities available there.
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Career TrackAlthough otolaryngologists usually work in a hospital setting performing surgery, they may choose to have their own private practice or work in a group practice. An otolaryngologist may pursue a career move, such as entering into the research field. They may work in other areas such as pharmaceutical research, medical school administrators, teaching and educators.
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CompensationFor an otolaryngologist starting their first year, their average annual salary is approximately $229,600 and after three years of practice, their annual salary is $403,000.
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