Dr. Jeffrey Richard Harris

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

Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)

• Pharyngeal Cancers (Nasopharynx, Oropharynx, Hypopharynx): Cancers affecting different parts of the pharynx (throat), including the upper part behind the nose (nasopharynx), middle part (oropharynx), and lower part (hypopharynx).
• Thyroglossal Duct Cysts: A congenital cyst typically found in the midline of the neck, arising from remnants of the thyroid gland's developmental path.
• Salivary Gland Infections (Sialadenitis) & Stones (Sialolithiasis): Inflammation or infection of the salivary glands (like parotid or submandibular) or the formation of stones within their ducts, causing pain and swelling.
• Thyroid Nodules & Goiter: Lumps (nodules) in the thyroid gland or overall enlargement of the thyroid (goiter), which may require evaluation for cancer or hormonal dysfunction.

Common Nose and Sinus Conditions

• Recurrent Epistaxis (Nosebleeds): Frequent or difficult-to-control bleeding from the nose, which can have various underlying causes.
• Nasal Fractures & Trauma: A break or crack in the bones of the nose, often resulting from an injury, which can affect breathing and appearance.
• 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.
• Acute Rhinosinusitis (Sinus Infection): Short-term inflammation or infection of the nasal passages and sinuses, often causing facial pain, congestion, and thick nasal discharge.

Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Aspects

• Soft Tissue Injuries of the Face and Neck: Damage to the skin, muscles, or other soft tissues of the face and neck due to trauma, requiring careful repair.
• Facial Bone Fractures (Nasal, Orbital, Maxillary, Mandibular): Breaks in the bones of the face, such as the nose, eye sockets, cheekbones, or jaw, typically resulting from trauma.
• Facial Skin Cancers requiring Excision and Reconstruction: Malignant skin growths on the face or neck that necessitate surgical removal and subsequent reconstruction to restore form and function.
• Protruding Ears requiring Otoplasty: Ears that stick out prominently from the head, which can be surgically corrected (otoplasty) for improved appearance.
• Nasal Deformity (Post-Traumatic or Congenital): Abnormal shape or structure of the nose resulting from injury or present from birth, which may affect breathing or appearance.

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. Jeffrey Harris or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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. Harris 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. Harris'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. Harris primarily practices at a well-equipped clinic located in the Kerrisdale South, Dunbar South neighborhood of Vancouver. The facility is conveniently situated near the Vancouver Lookout, making it easy for patients to access. Patients can reach the clinic via TransLink services including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as by bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The clinic is committed to accessibility, and the facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for all patients.

Are services from Dr. Harris, 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. Harris 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. Harris, 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. Harris. 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.

When should I consider seeing an ENT specialist?

You might consider seeing an ENT specialist if you experience persistent issues such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness or balance problems, chronic sinusitis or nasal congestion, recurrent nosebleeds, allergies affecting the upper airway, voice changes or hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, snoring or suspected sleep apnea, or lumps in the neck or head region. Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to an ENT like Dr. Harris is appropriate.

I have a thyroid nodule. What does an ENT specialist do?

If you have a thyroid nodule, an ENT specialist (Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon) like Dr. Harris will typically evaluate it through a physical exam, review any prior imaging (like ultrasound), and may order blood tests for thyroid function. A key diagnostic step is often a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, where a small sample of cells is taken from the nodule under ultrasound guidance to determine if it's benign or cancerous. Based on these findings, Dr. Harris will discuss whether monitoring, further testing, or surgical removal (thyroidectomy) is indicated.

What is the typical recovery time for common ENT surgeries like tonsillectomy or sinus surgery?

Recovery times vary depending on the specific surgery and the individual patient. For a tonsillectomy, expect a sore throat for 1-2 weeks, with gradual improvement. For endoscopic sinus surgery, most people feel significantly better within 1-2 weeks, but some nasal stuffiness or drainage can persist for a bit longer, and full healing can take a few months. Dr. Harris will provide detailed post-operative instructions and discuss the expected recovery period for your specific procedure.

2912 West Broadway, #241
Vancouver, BC V6K 0E9

Phone: (780) 407-7958

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Harris 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/324648/Harris%2CJeffrey