About
Dr. Francisco Lee 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 a clinic in Nanaimo, BC, he serves the local community with a focus on providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Dr. Lee adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every patient receives safe and effective treatment. His practice primarily involves comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing both adult and pediatric ENT conditions.
Dr. Lee graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Calgary in 2015, Canada. He completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, acquiring specialized skills in diagnosing and managing complex ENT conditions. He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development.
Driven by a patient-focused and compassionate approach, Dr. Lee emphasizes patient education, evidence-based care, and collaborative decision-making. He strives to provide high-quality ENT care in Nanaimo, ensuring his patients are well-informed about their conditions and treatment options. Fluent in English and Cantonese, he is dedicated to serving a diverse patient population with respect and understanding.
Dr. Francisco Lee 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
- Leukoplakia / Erythroplakia of the Larynx (Precancerous Lesions): White (leukoplakia) or red (erythroplakia) patches on the vocal cords that may indicate precancerous changes.
- Spasmodic Dysphonia: A neurological voice disorder causing involuntary spasms of the vocal cord muscles, resulting in a strained, tight, or breathy voice.
- Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR / Silent Reflux): A condition where stomach acid flows back up into the larynx and pharynx, causing symptoms like hoarseness, chronic cough, or throat clearing.
- Vocal Cord Paralysis / Paresis: A condition where one or both vocal cords do not move properly, affecting voice, breathing, and swallowing.
Common Nose and Sinus Conditions
- Turbinate Hypertrophy (Enlarged Nasal Turbinates): Swelling or enlargement of the nasal turbinates (structures inside the nose that warm and filter air), leading to nasal obstruction.
- Non-Allergic Rhinitis (Vasomotor Rhinitis): Nasal congestion, sneezing, or runny nose not caused by allergies, often triggered by environmental irritants, weather changes, or certain medications.
Common Ear Conditions
- 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.
- Otosclerosis (Abnormal Bone Growth in Middle Ear): A condition where abnormal bone remodeling in the middle ear, typically involving the stapes bone, causes progressive conductive hearing loss.
- 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.
- Cerumen Impaction (Earwax Blockage): Excessive buildup of earwax in the ear canal, potentially causing hearing difficulty, discomfort, or dizziness.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: A condition where the tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose doesn't open or close properly, causing ear pressure or fluid.
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. Francisco Lee or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
- Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
- Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. Lee 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. Lee'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. Lee's practice is primarily based at a modern clinic in the central Nanaimo area, specifically in the Departure Bay neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Woodgrove Centre Mall and Country Club Centre, making it accessible for patients from various parts of Nanaimo. The facility is easily reachable via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Patients can enjoy easy access to the clinic with nearby parking options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and convenience for all patients. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are services from Dr. Lee, 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. Lee 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. Lee, 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. Lee. 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. Lee 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. Lee, 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 does Dr. Lee 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. Lee may recommend surgical procedures like functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) or balloon sinuplasty to improve sinus drainage and ventilation.
- What are some common procedures an ENT doctor might perform?
- ENT doctors perform a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Common examples include hearing tests (audiometry), nasal or laryngeal endoscopy (using a small camera to view inside the nose or throat), tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (removal of tonsils and adenoids), myringotomy (ear tube insertion), septoplasty (correction of a deviated nasal septum), sinus surgery, and biopsies or removal of head and neck lesions. Dr. Lee can discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition.
- 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.
202-1515 Dufferin Cres
Nanaimo, BC V9S 5H6
Phone: (778) 762-3128 | Fax: (778) 690-2043
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lee 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/343054/Lee%2CFrancisco