ENT surgery in Australia
An ENT surgeon, also called an otolaryngologist, is a doctor who specialises in the ear, nose and throat, as well as related areas of the head and neck. They treat problems with hearing, breathing, sinuses, voice and swallowing, with or without surgery.
Soonest appointments across Australia
Public hospital surgery waits
Half of public patients waited longer than this for planned surgery, counted from being added to the public waiting list (after seeing a specialist) to the operation, 2024–25. Private specialists can often see you sooner; ask them about surgery timing and costs.
| Procedure | Local | State | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tonsillectomy | – | – | 6 months |
| Septoplasty | – | – | 11 months |
Source: AIHW MyHospitals, CC BY 3.0.
Common reasons to see an ENT surgeon
- Snoring and sleep apnoea
- Chronic sinusitis and blocked nose
- Recurring tonsillitis
- Ear infections and grommets in children
- Hearing loss and ringing in the ears
- Dizziness from inner ear problems
- Voice changes or hoarseness
- Lumps in the neck
What happens at the first appointment
- The ENT surgeon asks about your symptoms and how long you have had them
- They examine your ears, nose and throat
- They may use a thin camera (endoscope) to look inside your nose or throat
- They may arrange a hearing test, sleep study or scan
- They discuss treatment options, including whether surgery could help
Do I need a referral?
You need a referral, usually from your GP, to claim a Medicare rebate when you see a ENT surgeon. Hearing test or scan results from your GP or audiologist are useful to bring.
Questions to ask
- What is causing my symptoms?
- What can I try before considering surgery?
- If I need surgery, what is recovery like?
- Will the problem come back?
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see an ENT surgeon?
Yes, to claim a Medicare rebate you need a referral, usually from your GP. Your GP can include hearing test or scan results.
When should a child see an ENT surgeon?
GPs often refer children with frequent tonsillitis, ongoing fluid in the ears affecting hearing, or loud snoring with pauses in breathing. A paediatrician may also be involved.
When is a throat or neck problem urgent?
Call 000 or go to an emergency department for trouble breathing, being unable to swallow saliva, or severe swelling in the throat or neck.
ENT surgery in other cities
General information only, not medical advice. Everyone's situation is different, so check with your GP or the provider. In an emergency call 000.