HomeFaq’s

Faq’s

Frequently Asked Questions

Ear, Nose & Throat
Facial Plastics

What is an otolaryngologist?

Otolaryngologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose and throat diseases as well as related structures of the head and neck. Otolaryngologists are also referred to as ENT (short for Ear Nose Throat) doctors or physicians.

Is there any paperwork I need to fill out before my visit?

Yes. Patients should check the Patient Resources page for any documentation that should be filled out prior to their visit.

What happens during a typical appointment with an ENT specialist?

Dr. Russell T. Snow is an ENT specialist or otolaryngologist. A visit for a consultation or assessment may be different from an average visit to your family physician, as the specialist may use instrumentation to allow better visualization of difficult areas within the nose, mouth, ear or other parts of the head face or neck.

Outlined below is what to expect from a general ENT visit, however, depending on the presenting symptoms of the patient, the consultation may vary, tailoring the history and the examination to the patient’s complaint and presenting symptoms.

Typically a history is taken eliciting the symptoms of the patient’s complaints. It is also important that the past medical history and medication (always bring a current list with you) being used should be documented, as this may have relevance if one requires surgery at a later date. The history will become focused on the presenting complaint and its effect on the individual.

A thorough examination is usually undertaken, but some aspects of the examination may not be performed if not relevant to the complaint.

I think my child suffers from recurring ear infections. Why is this?

Children under the age of three can average one to two ear infections a year. These occur when fluid becomes trapped in the middle ear following a viral or bacterial infection. Younger children are most susceptible because their Eustachian tubes are short and still developing, making them prone to swelling and blockages. Dr Snow can offer resolution and provide preventative information during your child’s visit.

Are frequent sinus infections normal?

Approximately 38 million American adults suffer from sinusitis, making it the most common chronic condition in the U.S. It occurs when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed and swollen. This may result in nasal obstruction, infection, cause sinus pain or pressure, nasal congestion and discharge. If medical treatment is ineffective, surgery may be an option. An assessment of your individual situation can be made during your visit with Dr. Snow.

I’m suffering from hoarseness. What causes this, and should I be concerned?

Hoarseness is the result of irritation of the larynx (voice box). The most common causes are upper respiratory infections, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and postnasal drip. If the condition persists longer than four to six weeks, see a doctor to rule out anything more serious, such as nodules, tumors or vocal cord paralysis.

What are the signs of hearing loss?

Symptoms of hearing loss include difficulty understanding what others are saying, asking people to repeat themselves, struggling to hear in crowded places with distracting background noise, perceiving that others are mumbling or not speaking clearly, listening to the television or radio at a higher volume than others and experiencing a ringing or buzzing in the ears. You may find yourself withdrawing from social situations in order to avoid conversation and also might experience depression.

Is surgery performed under general or local anesthesia?

Depending upon what is most appropriate for your particular situation, Dr. Snow will decide what type of anesthesia to use. Additionally, he will answer any questions or concerns you may have along the way.

If a patient has a heart condition, is surgery with general anesthesia safe?

It depends upon the patient’s history of disease and current medications. Talk to Dr. Snow during your visit about your specific situation.

Does a person's voice change after rhinoplasty (nose surgery)?

A few patients notice small change in their voice after rhinoplasty but this is uncommon. Professionals who rely on their voice, such as singers, should share any concerns during their visit, however, because the nose does play a role in how we sound.

What is the recovery from surgery like?

Each patient tolerates pain after surgery in different ways. Dr. Snow will prescribe the appropriate pain medications to help minimize any discomfort. In general, most operations have minimal discomfort post-operatively.

Do the results of facial plastic surgery look natural?

One of the most common concerns expressed by patients prior to receiving treatment is the fear that they will look “overdone” or “fake.” Dr. Snow stresses the importance of natural results. At your initial consultation Dr. Snow will spend a significant amount of your visit discussing your concerns and relating them to your specific anatomy. The goal is to develop an individualized treatment plan that creates a refreshed appearance but maintains your identity.

On what parts of the body do you perform Plastic Surgery?

There are commonly performed cosmetic procedures for virtually every part of the face, including the neck, nose, eyes, ears chin, cheekbones, and forehead. Additionally, scar revision surgeries are possible on the same areas of the body.

How long does it take for an operation?

Duration varies depending on the procedure. Dr. Snow and staff will inform you of the anticipated surgical time. More extensive, or multiple, procedures may last several hours. Additional time is often required for preparation before, and rest & recovery time after the surgery itself, particularly when sedation or a general anesthetic is administered.