Dr. Leigh J Sowerby – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | London, ON

Dr. Leigh J Sowerby is a highly skilled Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (commonly known as an ENT Doctor) dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Practicing at St Joseph's Healthcare in London, ON, he serves the local community with a patient-focused and compassionate approach. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, safe, and effective care for all patients.

Dr. Sowerby received his medical degree from the University of Calgary in 2006 and has been practicing as a specialist in Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Medicine for over 13 years, since 2011. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional competence and ongoing education in his field.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Sowerby is committed to providing comprehensive ENT services in London, ensuring each patient receives personalized attention and thorough evaluations. He speaks English fluently and strives to foster a comforting environment to help patients feel at ease during their care journey.

Dr. Leigh Sowerby manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Common Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Conditions

• Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulties): Difficulty or pain when swallowing foods or liquids, which can stem from various problems in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
• Vocal Cord Nodules, Polyps, Cysts & Granulomas: Benign growths or lesions on the vocal cords that can cause hoarseness and other voice problems, often related to voice overuse or irritation.

Specific Pediatric ENT Conditions

• Congenital Neck Masses (e.g., Branchial Cleft Cysts, Thyroglossal Duct Cysts, Hemangiomas, Lymphatic Malformations): Lumps or growths present at birth or appearing in early childhood in the neck region, requiring careful diagnosis.
• Recurrent Nosebleeds in Children: Frequent episodes of bleeding from the nose in children, often due to dry air, nose picking, or fragile blood vessels.
• Recurrent Acute Otitis Media in Children: Frequent middle ear infections in children, often leading to considerations for ear tube placement.
• Subglottic Stenosis (Pediatric): Narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords in infants and children, which can cause significant breathing difficulties.

This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Leigh Sowerby or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Sowerby offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Sowerby's areas of focus.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). A referral may be required.

Dr. Sowerby's practice is primarily based at St Joseph's Healthcare in the Downtown London area, specifically in the North London East neighborhood of London. The location is conveniently situated near the Downtown Core with easy access via the London Transit Commission (LTC). Patients can reach the facility via public transit or personal vehicle. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Sowerby, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Sowerby are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Sowerby, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Sowerby. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.

What kind of post-operative care instructions can I expect after an ENT surgery?

Post-operative care instructions will be specific to the type of surgery performed. Generally, they may include information on pain management, diet restrictions (e.g., soft foods after tonsillectomy), activity limitations, wound care (if applicable), use of medications (like antibiotics or pain relievers), nasal saline rinses (after sinus surgery), and signs of potential complications to watch for. You will also be given follow-up appointment details. It's crucial to follow these instructions carefully for optimal healing.

St Joseph's Healthcare
268 Grosvenor Street, Department of Anaesthesia
London, ON N6A 4V2

Phone: (519) 646-6143 | Fax: (519) 646-6173

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Sowerby is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Sowerby-Leigh-J/0233321-84509