How to Be Head and Neck Surgeon - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 28, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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A head and neck surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the head and neck. This type of surgeon has extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology of the head and neck region. The effects of their work can be far-reaching, as they are responsible for diagnosing and managing conditions such as tumors, cancers, thyroid disorders, facial trauma, sleep apnea, and many more.

They play an integral role in the treatment of these conditions by performing surgeries, administering medications or treatments, and providing counseling. Head and neck surgeons often collaborate with speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive the best possible care.

Steps How to Become

Complete a bachelor's degree program. To become a head and neck surgeon, you must first earn a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field.
Earn a medical degree. After completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to earn a medical degree from an accredited medical school.
Complete an internship. Most medical schools require you to complete a one-year internship in a hospital or medical setting before you can graduate.
Complete a residency. After graduating from medical school, you will need to complete a residency program in head and neck surgery. This typically lasts three to five years and is often completed at a teaching hospital.
Obtain board certification. Once you have completed your residency, you must become certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology in order to practice head and neck surgery. You must pass both written and oral exams in order to receive board certification.
Obtain a state license. After becoming board certified, you must obtain a state license in order to practice medicine in your state. Each state has different requirements for licensure.

Head and neck surgeons are highly trained and qualified medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of illnesses and medical conditions related to the head, neck, and face. They are ideal for treating diseases such as sleep apnea, head and neck cancer, facial trauma, and skull base tumors. Due to their specialized knowledge and training, they are able to provide more comprehensive care than general practitioners.

they have a better understanding of the anatomy of the head and neck, which allows them to diagnose conditions more accurately and efficiently. As a result, head and neck surgeons are able to provide the most competent care for their patients.

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Job Description

Diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the head and neck, including the nose, sinuses, larynx, oral cavity, and upper pharynx.
Perform routine physical examinations of the head and neck to detect and diagnose abnormalities.
Perform surgical procedures to correct deformities, tumors, and other conditions in the head and neck region.
Perform reconstructive surgery to correct facial defects caused by trauma or congenital abnormalities.
Treat chronic and acute ear, nose, and throat infections.
Manage ear disorders such as hearing loss and balance issues.
Treat allergies and sinusitis.
Manage airway disorders such as sleep apnea and voice disorders.
Prescribe medications for conditions such as hearing loss, vertigo, and tinnitus.
Provide counseling to patients on lifestyle changes to improve their conditions.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology related to head and neck surgery
Knowledge of surgical techniques related to head and neck surgery
Knowledge of medical terminology and coding related to head and neck surgery
Ability to diagnose and treat conditions related to the head and neck
Ability to perform complex surgical procedures on the head and neck
Ability to assess patient needs, order diagnostic tests and interpret results
Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and other medical personnel
Ability to function as part of a medical team in a multi-disciplinary setting
Knowledge of infection control and safety procedures
Knowledge of relevant legal regulations and ethical standards

Good communication skills are an essential trait for a successful head and neck surgeon. Being able to effectively communicate with their patients, other medical professionals, and support staff is key to providing quality care and successful outcomes. When a head and neck surgeon can clearly explain diagnosis, potential treatments, and any associated risks to their patients, they are better able to create trust and confidence in the care they provide.

strong communication skills help to ensure that all team members are on the same page throughout the course of treatment, which can help to reduce medical errors and improve patient outcomes. Lastly, the ability to listen well is also an important skill for a head and neck surgeon to possess, as it can help them to gain insight into a patients particular situation and give them a more holistic understanding of their health.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What has been your most challenging case involving the head and neck?
What techniques do you typically use to diagnose and treat head and neck problems?
How do you ensure that patients receive comprehensive care?
How do you prioritize care when dealing with multiple head and neck issues?
How have you addressed difficult conversations with patients and families?
How have you worked with other healthcare professionals to coordinate a patients care?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision regarding a head and neck issue.
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in head and neck surgery?
What strategies do you use to ensure safety for both patients and medical staff?
How do you handle conflicts of interest between patient care and cost-effectiveness?

Common Tools in Industry

Endoscope. An instrument used to view the interior of a body cavity or tube. (e. g. nasopharyngoscope, laryngoscope)
Laser. A device that emits an intense beam of light to cut, vaporize, or remove tissue. (e. g. CO2 laser)
Oscillating Saw. A surgical tool used to cut through bone and cartilage with a rapid back and forth motion. (e. g. Gigli Saw)
Microdebrider. An instrument used to rapidly and precisely remove soft tissue from the head and neck area. (e. g. ENT Microdebrider)
Microscope. An optical device used to magnify objects for examination. (e. g. Operating Microscope)
Bipolar Forceps. An instrument used to grasp and manipulate tissue without causing trauma or tissue damage. (e. g. bipolar coagulation forceps)
Retractors. Instruments used to hold open an incision or body cavity to facilitate access and visualization. (e. g. Richardson Retractor)
Suction Catheters. Tubing used to suction out fluids from the body or wound site. (e. g. suction catheter)
Needle Drivers. Instruments used to hold and maneuver sutures during surgery. (e. g. Mayo-Hegar needle driver)
Scissors. Tools used to cut through tissue and sutures during surgery. (e. g. Metzenbaum scissors)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Head and Neck Society (AHNS)
American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS)
The American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO)
The American Rhinologic Society (ARS)
The American Laryngological Association (ALA)
The Triological Society (TS)
The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS)
International Federation of Head and Neck Oncologic Societies (IFHNOS)
European Laryngological Society (ELS)
International Federation of Otorhinolaryngological Societies (IFOS)

Common Important Terms

Otorhinolaryngology (ENT). A branch of medicine that specializes in diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat.
Otology. The medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ear.
Rhinology. The study of diseases and disorders of the nose and its adjacent structures.
Laryngology. The study of diseases and disorders of the larynx and its adjacent structures.
Facial Plastic Surgery. A surgical specialty that specializes in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery of the face, neck, and head.
Maxillofacial Surgery. A surgical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of maxillofacial (mouth and jaw) disorders and deformities.
Craniofacial Surgery. A surgical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of congenital facial deformities and craniofacial anomalies.
Neurosurgery. A medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
Oncology. The branch of medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Endocrinology. The medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of hormonal conditions and diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Head and Neck Surgeon?

A Head and Neck Surgeon is a physician specializing in the diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases and conditions of the head and neck.

What type of surgeries do Head and Neck Surgeons perform?

Head and Neck Surgeons typically perform surgeries to treat conditions such as throat cancer, head and neck tumors, salivary gland disorders, thyroid and parathyroid disorders, voice problems, sleep apnea, facial trauma, snoring and sleep disorders.

What are the qualifications of a Head and Neck Surgeon?

To become a Head and Neck Surgeon, a physician must complete a 5-year residency in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and be board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology.

What is the scope of practice for a Head and Neck Surgeon?

The scope of practice for a Head and Neck Surgeon includes diagnosis, medical and surgical management of diseases and conditions of the head and neck, including facial plastic surgery.

What is the average salary of a Head and Neck Surgeon?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Head and Neck Surgeons was $208,000 in May 2019.

Web Resources

Head & Neck Surgery - Washington University Physicians physicians.wustl.edu
Surgery of the head & neck - Otolaryngology | Northwell Health www.northwell.edu
Head & Neck Surgery | Stanford Otolaryngology med.stanford.edu