Description
About Dr. Oakley David Smith
Specializing in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Oakley David Smith (an ENT Doctor) provides expert medical and surgical solutions for patients in Toronto. Practicing at a reputable clinic in Toronto, ON, he serves the local community with a focus on delivering comprehensive ENT care. Dr. Smith adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective treatment for his patients. His role encompasses a broad spectrum of general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck regions in both adults and children.
Dr. Smith graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1982.0 (Canada), and has been practicing as a specialist in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Medicine since 1989, accumulating over 35 years of experience. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence and ongoing professional development.
With a patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Smith emphasizes patient education, evidence-based practices, and a collaborative approach to care. He is dedicated to providing high-quality ENT services in Toronto, ensuring each patient receives personalized attention. Dr. Smith communicates fluently in English, fostering clear and compassionate dialogue with his patients.
Common Conditions Dr. Oakley Smith Addresses
Dr. Oakley Smith manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:
Common Nose and Sinus Conditions
- Chronic Rhinosinusitis (with or without Nasal Polyps): Long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses (12 weeks or more), sometimes associated with nasal polyps, leading to persistent congestion and discomfort.
- 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.
- 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.
- Deviated Nasal Septum: A condition where the thin wall (septum) between the nasal passages is displaced to one side, potentially causing breathing difficulties.
Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Aspects
- 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.
- Facial Scars requiring Revision: Unsatisfactory appearance of scars on the face from previous injuries or surgeries, which may be improved with scar revision techniques.
- Drooping Eyelids Obstructing Vision (Functional Blepharoplasty): Excess skin or fat in the upper eyelids that hangs down and interferes with the field of vision, potentially treatable with surgery.
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. Oakley Smith or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Services Offered
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. Smith 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. Smith'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.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Smith's practice is primarily based at a well-equipped clinic located in the vibrant Beaches neighborhood of Toronto, ON. The clinic is situated near Exhibition Place, making it convenient for patients in the downtown Toronto area. Accessibility is enhanced by multiple transportation options including TTC subway lines, streetcars, and bus routes, ensuring easy access for patients from various parts of the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility, providing added convenience for those arriving by car.
Frequently Asked Questions about Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
- Are services from Dr. Smith, 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. Smith 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. Smith, 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. Smith. 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.
- Why are ear tubes recommended for some children with recurrent ear infections?
- Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) are often recommended for children who experience frequent middle ear infections (recurrent acute otitis media) or persistent fluid in the middle ear (otitis media with effusion) that doesn't clear on its own. These tiny tubes are inserted into the eardrum to help ventilate the middle ear space, prevent fluid buildup, reduce the frequency of infections, and can improve hearing if it was affected by the fluid. Dr. Smith can assess if ear tubes are appropriate for your child.
- I've been experiencing dizziness. How will an ENT specialist evaluate this?
- Evaluation for dizziness is comprehensive as there are many potential causes. Dr. Smith 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.
- 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. Smith 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. Smith will discuss whether monitoring, further testing, or surgical removal (thyroidectomy) is indicated.
Contact & Licensing Information
2349 Queen Street East
Toronto, ON M4E 1H2
Phone: (416) 465-5795 | Fax: (416) 465-5701
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Smith 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/Smith-Oakley-David/0037815-51791