An ear, nose and throat surgeon, also known as an otorhinolaryngologist, is a specialist surgical doctor who deals with operations of the prior mentioned body parts. Surgeons of this speciality would also carry out operations on the neck, head and may have some part to play in cosmetic surgery.

However, they would not only carry out surgical operations but would also need to play a part in the diagnosis and treatment of outpatients. This may involve treatment of severe earache, tonsillitis or allergic reactions. This is a specialist area of surgical medicine with a great level of diversity, both in the activities carried out and the variety of areas you can choose to specialise in.

Work activities

The activities an ear, nose and throat surgeon would need to carry out include:

  • Analysing patient records and communicating with patients to understand their medical problems.
  • Carrying out physical examinations and other tests to ascertain the treatment required.
  • Diagnose patients and ensure that you do your best to put them at ease.
  • Making quick decisions when under stress.
  • Remain composed during longs surgeries.
  • Maintain utmost concentration.
  • Carrying out surgical operations and carrying out face-to-face doctoral duties.
  • Maintaining patient records and ensuring after treatments is available.
  • You may need to be on call for any medical emergencies.
  • You may later choose to specialise in one particular area, such as treatment of the ear.
  • Ensure that hygiene levels are upheld.
  • Make sure your attention to detail and hand skills remain to a high level.
  • Need to continually study in order to keep up-to-date with any developments in the surgical process.

Essential skills

  • Able to build and maintain a good rapport with patients.
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
  • Excellent knowledge of biology and other scientific areas.
  • Willing to keep learning as this is a profession in which advancements are always happening.
  • You must be self-motivated.
  • This is a profession in which you must learn to cope with grief.
  • Long surgical procedures will require good mental and physical stamina.
  • Ability to work under pressure.
  • Maintain a high level of professionalism.
  • Practical skills.
  • Able to work as an individual and as part of a medical team.
  • Interest in the industry and a desire to make a difference in people’s lives.