Dr. Desmond Antonio Nunez – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Vancouver, BC

Specializing in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Desmond Antonio Nunez (an ENT Doctor) provides expert medical and surgical solutions for patients in Vancouver. Practicing at a clinic in the Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC, he serves the local community with a patient-focused and compassionate approach. Dr. Nunez adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring quality care for all patients.

He holds a medical degree (MB BS) from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica, earned in 1982, and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Nunez also holds certifications including those recognized by the College Registration Committee, demonstrating his commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in his field.

Driven by a philosophy of patient education, evidence-based care, and collaborative treatment planning, Dr. Nunez is dedicated to providing high-quality ENT care in Vancouver. He speaks English fluently and is committed to supporting his patients through compassionate communication and tailored treatment strategies.

Dr. Desmond Nunez 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.

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. Desmond Nunez or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• 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.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
• Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Nunez 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. Nunez'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 British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required.

Dr. Nunez's practice is primarily based at a modern clinic located in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Vancouver Art Gallery, easily accessible via TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for patients attending appointments.

Are services from Dr. Nunez, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Nunez are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic if you have questions.

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

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Nunez. 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 does Dr. Nunez treat chronic sinusitis?

Treatment for chronic sinusitis is individualized and aims to reduce inflammation, drain the sinuses, and address underlying causes (like allergies or polyps). This may involve medications such as nasal corticosteroid sprays, saline rinses, oral antibiotics (if bacterial infection is confirmed), antifungal treatments in specific cases, or allergy management. In some cases, if medical management is not sufficient, Dr. Nunez may recommend surgical procedures like functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) or balloon sinuplasty to improve sinus drainage and ventilation.

I've been experiencing dizziness. How will an ENT specialist evaluate this?

Evaluation for dizziness is comprehensive as there are many potential causes. Dr. Nunez will take a detailed history of your symptoms (type of dizziness, duration, triggers), review your medical history and medications, and perform a physical examination, including specific tests for balance and inner ear function (like Dix-Hallpike maneuver for BPPV). Depending on the findings, further tests such as a hearing test (audiogram), videonystagmography (VNG) to assess inner ear and central motor functions, or imaging studies (MRI) might be ordered to determine the cause and guide treatment.

How can Dr. Nunez 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. Nunez, 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.

How should I prepare for my appointment with an ENT specialist?

For your appointment, please bring your provincial health card, your referral letter (if applicable), a list of your current medications (including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements), and any relevant medical records, imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs on a disc if possible), or test results you may have (such as previous hearing tests or allergy reports). Be prepared to discuss your symptoms, their duration, and your medical history in detail. It's also helpful to write down any questions you have beforehand.

4th Floor-2775 Laurel St, G & L Diamond Health Care Centre
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 875-4645 | Fax: (604) 875-4644

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Nunez is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/340221/Nunez%2CDesmond