About
Dr. Joel Wallis Howlett, 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 Surrey, BC, he serves the local community with a focus on comprehensive Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery services. Dr. Howlett adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and effective care for all patients. His role involves diagnosing and managing a wide range of ENT conditions in both adult and pediatric populations, addressing issues affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck structures.
Dr. Howlett graduated with a Medical Degree (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan in 2017 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his specialized expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development. His training enables him to provide advanced diagnostic and therapeutic interventions tailored to each patient's needs.
With a philosophy rooted in patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach, Dr. Howlett strives to deliver high-quality ENT services in Surrey. He is dedicated to ensuring patients are well-informed about their conditions and treatment options. Fluent in English, he communicates clearly and compassionately, fostering a trusting environment for his patients to discuss their concerns and achieve optimal health outcomes.
Dr. Joel Howlett manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:
Common Ear Conditions
- 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.
- Cholesteatoma (Benign Ear Cyst): An abnormal, noncancerous skin growth that can develop in the middle ear behind the eardrum, potentially damaging ear structures.
- 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.
Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Aspects
- 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.
- Protruding Ears requiring Otoplasty: Ears that stick out prominently from the head, which can be surgically corrected (otoplasty) for improved appearance.
Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)
- Lymphadenopathy (Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Neck): Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, which can be a sign of infection, inflammation, or, less commonly, cancer.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders (ENT Assessment for Related Symptoms): Problems affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, where an ENT may evaluate related symptoms like ear pain or facial pain.
- Thyroglossal Duct Cysts: A congenital cyst typically found in the midline of the neck, arising from remnants of the thyroid gland's developmental path.
- Oral Cavity Cancers (Tongue, Floor of Mouth, Buccal Mucosa): Malignant tumors arising in the mouth, including the tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, and the floor of the mouth.
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. Joel Howlett or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
- 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.
- Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
- 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.
- Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
- 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. Howlett 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. Howlett'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. Howlett primarily practices at a clinic located in the Newton Central, Bear Creek Area neighborhood of Surrey, BC, situated along a busy commercial corridor. The location is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus services. The facility is equipped to accommodate patients with mobility challenges, as it is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility for patients who choose to drive, with convenient access and ample space for visitors.
- Are services from Dr. Howlett, 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. Howlett 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. Howlett, 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. Howlett. 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 does an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon (ENT Doctor) like Dr. Howlett do?
- An Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, often called an ENT doctor, like Dr. Howlett, is a medical doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. This includes medical treatments and surgical procedures for hearing disorders, sinus problems, voice issues, sleep apnea, throat infections, and tumors of the head and neck region.
- How does Dr. Howlett 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. Howlett may recommend surgical procedures like functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) or balloon sinuplasty to improve sinus drainage and ventilation.
- 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. Howlett is appropriate.
- 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.
101-8644 120 St, Fraser ENT
Surrey, BC V3W 3N6
Phone: (778) 565-3239 | Fax: (778) 565-3249 | Website: https://www.drclarkbartlett.com/
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Howlett 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/359976/Howlett%2CJoel