Dr. Philip Lai – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Oakville, ON

Dr. Philip Lai, 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 Oakville, ON, he serves the local community with a focus on comprehensive Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Lai adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring quality care and professional integrity. His role involves diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck structures.

With extensive training and experience, Dr. Lai specializes in evaluating complex ENT conditions, performing advanced diagnostic procedures, and offering effective treatment options. His practice primarily serves both adults and children, addressing health issues that impact their quality of life and overall well-being. Patients can expect thorough assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support for their ENT health needs.

Dr. Lai’s clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, evidence-based medicine, and a collaborative approach to care. He is dedicated to providing high-quality ENT services in Oakville, ensuring that every patient receives respectful, comprehensive, and effective treatment. Fluent in Cantonese, English, and Mandarin, he communicates clearly and compassionately with diverse patient populations.

Dr. Philip Lai 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

• Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) evaluation: A rare, controversial condition where patients experience symptoms of nasal obstruction and dryness despite having surgically widened nasal passages.

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. Philip Lai or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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. Lai 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. Lai'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. Lai practices primarily at a clinic located in the West Oak Trails, Glen Abbey West neighborhood of Oakville, ON. The clinic is conveniently situated near Oakville Harbour and Coronation Park, offering a tranquil environment for patient care. Accessibility is enhanced by proximity to Oakville Transit, making it easy for patients to reach the facility via public transportation. The clinic is equipped with accessible features to accommodate all patients. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Lai, 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. Lai 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. Lai, 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. Lai. 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 are common causes of hearing loss an ENT might address?

Hearing loss can result from various causes, including age-related changes (presbycusis), noise exposure, earwax buildup (cerumen impaction), ear infections (otitis media), fluid in the middle ear, damage to the eardrum or middle ear bones (ossicles), Meniere's disease, otosclerosis, or, less commonly, tumors or genetic conditions. An ENT specialist can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause and recommend appropriate management, which may include medical treatment, hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or surgery.

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. Lai can assess if ear tubes are appropriate for your child.

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. Lai will provide detailed post-operative instructions and discuss the expected recovery period for your specific procedure.

Suite 209, 2520 Postmaster Drive
Oakville, ON L6M 0N2

Phone: (905) 825-0549 | Fax: (905) 827-0080

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lai 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/Lai-Philip/0220486-82997