Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Second Opinion

Get an Expert ENT Second Opinion

At Columbia Otolaryngology, our nationally recognized ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists offer expert second opinions to help you better understand your diagnosis, explore treatment options, and feel confident that your care plan is right for you. Whether you’re facing a complex head and neck condition, sinus disease, hearing or balance disorder, or surgical recommendation, a second opinion can provide clarity and peace of mind. 

What is an ENT Second Opinion?

A second opinion at Columbia Otolaryngology means a dedicated ENT specialist:

• Reviews your medical history, imaging, and test results
• Confirms or clarifies your diagnosis
• Explains your treatment and surgical options
• Helps you understand risks, benefits, and alternatives

A second opinion is an objective, expert perspective—not a replacement for your current doctor—and can help you make an informed decision about your care. 

Reasons to Seek an Ear, Nose & Throat Second Opinion

You may benefit from a second opinion if:

• You’ve been told you need ENT surgery (e.g., sinus, skull base, voice, or sleep apnea surgery)
• You’re experiencing persistent symptoms despite prior treatment
• You want a specialized evaluation for head, neck, or throat tumors
• You want a specialized evaluation for hearing or balance disorders
• You want to review minimally invasive or advanced treatment approaches
• You want to learn more about research and clinical trials related to your condition

Second opinions are common and may be covered by your health insurance. 

Conditions We Commonly Review

Columbia Otolaryngology provides second opinions for a broad range of ENT conditions, including:

Ear & Hearing Conditions

• Balance disorders and vestibular dysfunction
• Cochlear implant candidacy and evaluation
• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus (ear ringing)

Sinus & Nasal Disorders

• Allergies
• Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps
• Deviated septum and nasal obstruction

Throat, Voice & Swallowing Issues

• Airway obstruction, sleep breathing issues, and CPAP alternatives
• Persistent hoarseness or voice changes
• Swallowing problems
• Voice-preserving strategies for singing professionals

Head & Neck Conditions

• Head and neck tumors (benign and malignant)
• Salivary gland disorders
• Skull base lesions
• Thyroid and parathyroid conditions

Pediatric ENT Disorders

• Congenital ENT conditions 
• Pediatric ear infections
• Pediatric airway and feeding disorders
• Tonsil and adenoid disease

What Can You Expect from Your Second Opinion?

• Pre-Visit Review: Our specialists review your medical records and imaging before your visit, when possible to make your consultation efficient and informative.
• Expert Evaluation: You’ll meet with an ENT expert who will evaluate your condition and answer your questions.
• Treatment Discussion: We explain potential treatments—from medical management and therapy to advanced surgical options—tailored to your condition and preferences.
• Recommendations for Next Steps: You’ll receive a clear plan describing treatment options and suggested follow-up care.

Why Choose Columbia Otolaryngology?

Columbia Otolaryngology offers:

• World-class clinical expertise spanning the full spectrum of ENT specialties
• Multidisciplinary care across head and neck surgery, audiology, voice and swallowing, sleep medicine, and pediatric ENT
• Access to research, clinical trials, and innovative therapies
• Telehealth (virtual) consultation options for convenient access from anywhere 

How to Request an Otolaryngology Second Opinion

Getting started is easy:

1. Explore our list of Columbia ENT specialists
2. Contact a provider directly or call 212-305-8555

Second opinions may be offered in person or through telehealth, depending on your needs and location.

Take the Next Step in Your Care

A second opinion can help you better understand your condition and choose the treatment plan that’s best for you. If you have questions, our care team is here to support you every step of the way.