Dr. Brenda Sharon Hsiao-Mei Kou – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Scarborough, ON

Dr. Brenda Sharon Hsiao-Mei Kou, a respected Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), is committed to providing compassionate and patient-centered care for individuals with ear, nose, and throat concerns. Practicing at a clinic in Scarborough, ON, she serves the local community with dedication, adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her focus is on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting both adults and children.

Dr. Kou graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1993 (Canada). She has been practicing as a specialist in Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor for over 26 years, since 1998. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, ensuring her adherence to rigorous training and professional standards. Her extensive experience allows her to deliver expert diagnosis and treatment for complex ENT conditions.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Kou is dedicated to providing high-quality ENT care in Scarborough, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention. She speaks English fluently, fostering clear communication and understanding with her patients.

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

Specific Pediatric ENT Conditions

• Pediatric Hearing Loss (Congenital & Acquired): Hearing impairment present at birth (congenital) or developing later in childhood, requiring specialized assessment and intervention.
• Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie) & Lip-Tie affecting feeding/speech: Conditions where a short or tight band of tissue restricts the movement of the tongue (tongue-tie) or lip (lip-tie), potentially impacting breastfeeding, feeding, or speech.
• Pediatric Dysphagia (Swallowing Problems in Children): Difficulties with swallowing in infants or children, which can be due to various structural or functional issues.

Common Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Conditions

• Peritonsillar Abscess (Quinsy): A collection of pus that forms behind one of the tonsils, typically as a complication of bacterial tonsillitis.

Common Ear Conditions

• Acute Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection): A common infection of the middle ear, often causing ear pain and fever, especially in children.
• Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear / Outer Ear Infection): An infection of the outer ear canal, often triggered by water exposure, causing pain, itching, and discharge.
• Chronic Otitis Media (Persistent Middle Ear Infection/Inflammation): Long-lasting or recurring infection or inflammation of the middle ear, potentially leading to hearing loss or eardrum perforation.
• Hearing Loss (Conductive, Sensorineural, Mixed, Sudden): Reduced ability to hear, which can be due to problems in the outer/middle ear (conductive), inner ear/nerve (sensorineural), a combination, or occur abruptly.

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. Brenda Kou 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.
• 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.
• Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
• 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.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Kou 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. Kou'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. Kou's practice is primarily based at a modern clinic located in Scarborough, ON, conveniently near the central Scarborough neighborhood. Patients can enjoy proximity to local points of interest such as Scarborough Town Centre and Scarborough Bluffs. The clinic is easily accessible via public transit, with nearby bus stops and subway stations. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Kou, 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. Kou 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. Kou, 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. Kou. 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.

How can Dr. Kou help with snoring and sleep apnea?

Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are often caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose or throat. Dr. Kou, an ENT specialist, can perform a thorough examination to identify the areas of obstruction (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue base, elongated soft palate). Depending on the findings, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (weight loss, positional therapy), CPAP therapy (often managed by a sleep physician), oral appliances, or surgical procedures aimed at improving airway patency. Examples include septoplasty, tonsillectomy, UPPP, or Inspire therapy in select cases.

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.

3-2361 Brimley Road
Scarborough, ON M1S 3L6

Phone: (416) 850-2416 | Fax: (416) 850-2415

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kou 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/Kou-Brenda-Sharon-HsiaoMei/0052563-66527