Blog

Photo By Sunshine Studio at Shutterstock

A head and neck surgeon has gone through an accredited residency that encompasses surgical and medical care for disorders impacting the upper digestive and respiratory systems, and other structures of the neck and head. At NextGen, our doctor offers a solid core of skills and knowledge to our patients in Plano, TX.

From a medical perspective, this specialization includes knowledge of the chemical senses as well as allergy and immunology. Audiology and speech-language structures are also under the purview of head and neck surgery. This interdisciplinary specialty requires mastery of endocrinology and neurology and gives patients access to a broad array of services.

From a clinical perspective, Dr. Eftekhari provides diagnosis and treatment that includes surgical therapy and prevention of deformities, diseases, disorders and injuries to the ears, upper digestive system, jaws, phase, nose and other structures of the head and neck. Another area under this specialty includes cancer of the head and neck, including reconstructive surgery when required.

Dr. Eftekhari spent five years in residency including many months of surgical science training and practice. This residency includes progressive education leading to mastery of head and neck surgery and treatment. During the final year, candidates must serve as chief residents within approved institutions for this specialization. 

What Procedures Are Included in Head and Neck Surgery?

General practitioners and internists have a good working knowledge of the human body. Other practitioners specialize in certain areas of the body. Head and neck surgeons focus on pathologies, diseases, trauma and other conditions related to the head and neck.

Head and neck surgery includes surgical methods required when nonsurgical options cannot effectively manage diseases and disorders of the mouth, jaw, throat, neck, face and head. Our surgeon removes skin cancer and tumors on the neck, face and scalp. Dr. Eftekhari is an expert in surgical and nonsurgical treatments of the dental structures and other parts of the face.

Training for Head and Neck Surgeon

On their way to becoming a head and neck surgeon, physicians complete a 5-year program of study. First, they have to pass medical school and then they have to complete a residency that includes over four years of intensive study and nine months of surgical training.

These surgeons prepare to perform surgery on patients with diseases, pathologies and disorders of the face, mouth, tongue, neck, parathyroid gland, thyroid gland, salivary gland, nose and scalp. Additionally, head and neck surgery requires mastery of complex reconstructions following trauma and surgical removal of cancers and malignancies.

At NextGen OMS, we provide the most up-to-date techniques and state of the art equipment to ensure we are ready to care for every type of surgery that may be needed by our patients. This means that clients rarely have to go to multiple specialists for conditions impacting the head and neck. 

Dr. Eftekhari has extensive training in oral and maxillofacial surgery and reconstructive surgery. Following an advanced fellowship in these areas, he went on to pursue a career of helping patients with complex head and neck disorders, including pathologies and cancers. Dr. Eftekhari also performs microvascular reconstruction with finesse and expertise.

Types of Services Offered by a Head and Neck Surgeon

A head and neck specialist consults with patients and provides treatment that includes surgical and nonsurgical solutions for different conditions. Many patients with cancer in the head and neck area come to Dr. Eftekhari for reconstructive surgery. He also provides reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for those who have had noncancerous tumors and masses removed.

As a head and neck surgeon, Dr. Eftekhari examines, diagnoses and treats masses, lumps and lesions in the mouth, ears, nose, and other facial structures. For those with thyroid and parathyroid issues, he can perform surgery or provide medical treatment to treat irregularities.

There are many glands in the head and neck area that require specialized training to care for. This includes the salivary glands, thyroid and parathyroid glands that can develop infections, masses and stones. Head and neck surgeons also handle issues with the throat and tonsils.

Dr. Eftekhari is an adept surgeon with great communication skills and compassion for his patients. He takes the time to explain the microvascular, maxillofacial or other procedure during the consultation or follow up visits.

What Medical Insurance Do We Accept?

Dr. Eftekhari takes major insurance carriers and we also accept Medicare. In our experience, patients’ medical insurance covers most of the treatment cost of seeing a head and neck specialist. Make sure that you contact your carrier directly to see whether they will cover the cost of treatment, surgery and follow up care.

Some procedures require pre-approval, so it’s important to understand what your insurance provider will pay for and what you have to pay on your own. To simplify the process, NextGen OMS also accepts major dental and medical insurance.

If you need or desire a procedure that isn’t covered by your insurance, we will work with you to come up with a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Contact a Head and Neck Surgeon in Plano, TX

It can be frightening to face a cancer diagnosis or to go through another serious condition. However, partnering with a head and neck surgeon can give you the best chance of a successful outcome. Some patients come to us after being referred by their primary care physician. Others find us on their own. Dr. Eftekhari often provides the answers and the consolation that patients need to hear during critical times.

We perform most surgeries in hospitals throughout North Dallas. This includes Medical City Plano, THR Presbyterian Hospital and Methodist and Baylor Scott & White Hospitals.

If you or someone you love has an abnormal mass, pain, lesions or swelling in the head or neck area, contact NextGen OMS today for an appointment with Dr. Eftekhari.