Dr. Joseph Meichung Chen – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Toronto, ON

Dr. Joseph Meichung Chen 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 reputable clinic in Toronto, ON, he serves the local community with a compassionate and patient-focused approach. Dr. Chen adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring the highest quality of care for his patients.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 1985 in Canada. With over 34 years of experience as an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist since 1990, Dr. Chen has developed a comprehensive expertise in the field. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, reflecting his commitment to maintaining excellence in his practice and staying current with advances in otolaryngology.

Dr. Chen’s clinical philosophy centers on patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. He is committed to providing high-quality ENT services in Toronto, ensuring his patients feel heard, informed, and supported throughout their healthcare journey. Fluent in both Chinese and English, Dr. Chen strives to accommodate diverse patient needs and foster a welcoming environment for all.

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

Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Aspects

• 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)

• 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 floor of the mouth.
• 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).

Common Ear Conditions

• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Hearing impairment resulting from exposure to loud sounds, which can be temporary or permanent.
• Cholesteatoma (Benign Ear Cyst): An abnormal, noncancerous skin growth that can develop in the middle ear behind the eardrum, potentially damaging ear structures.
• Cerumen Impaction (Earwax Blockage): Excessive buildup of earwax in the ear canal, potentially causing hearing difficulty, discomfort, or dizziness.
• Barotrauma (Ear Pressure Injury): Ear pain or damage to the eardrum caused by unequal pressure between the middle ear and the environment, often during flying or diving.
• Eardrum Perforation (Ruptured Eardrum): A hole or tear in the tympanic membrane (eardrum), which can result from infection, injury, or pressure changes.

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. Joseph Chen 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.
• 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 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.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Chen 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. Chen'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. Chen primarily practices at a clinic located in the Lawrence Park neighbourhood of Toronto, ON. The facility provides convenient access for patients coming from various parts of the city, including proximity to Kensington Market. Patients can easily reach the clinic via TTC, including subway, streetcar, and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers parking options for visitors. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Chen, 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. Chen 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. Chen, 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. Chen. 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.

My child gets frequent tonsillitis. What are the treatment options?

Recurrent tonsillitis can be managed in several ways. For acute bacterial infections, antibiotics are often prescribed. If infections are very frequent (e.g., multiple episodes per year), severe, cause breathing problems or difficulty swallowing, or don't respond well to antibiotics, a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be recommended by an ENT specialist. Dr. Chen can assess your child's specific situation, including the frequency and severity of episodes, and discuss the best course of action.

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.

How are allergies related to ENT problems?

Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.

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. Chen can discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition.

Suite 301, 2075 Bayview Avenue
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Phone: (416) 480-4140 | Fax: (416) 480-5761

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Chen 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/Chen-Joseph-Meichung/0049471-63449