Head and Neck Doctor in Twin Cities
Clear Answers for Complex Conditions
With 45+ specialists and same-week availability whenever possible, you can get answers about your head or neck condition sooner.
serving Minnesota families
ENT specialists in one practice
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Twin Cities Locations
Team Members
Timely Care From Experienced Head and Neck Doctors
From a new neck lump or thyroid nodule to a complex cancer diagnosis, our experienced head and neck specialists provide comprehensive evaluation, treatment, surgery, and long-term follow-up. With convenient locations across the Twin Cities and same-day or same-week appointments available whenever possible, you can get the specialized care you need without unnecessary delays.
At Ear, Nose & Throat Specialty Care, you can book a same-day or same-week appointment with a head and neck specialist whenever possible, giving you the answers you need so you can start treatment faster.
Our team of 45+ multidisciplinary ENT specialists treat a wide range of head and neck conditions, including head and neck cancer, thyroid and parathyroid surgery, salivary gland disorders, and more, giving you one-stop care without the need for multiple referrals.
With 70+ years of experience and partnerships with major health systems across the region, we give you timely treatment and access to Minnesota’s largest independent group of board-certified ENT specialists.
Relief starts with your first appointment.
Diagnosing and Treating Head and Neck Disorders
Our multidisciplinary head and neck specialists treat a range of conditions affecting the glands, tissues, and structures of your head and neck.
We’ll identify what’s causing your symptoms and recommend the right next step, whether that means monitoring, medication, further testing, or surgery.
Our surgeons and specialists diagnose and treat cancers affecting the mouth, tongue, tonsils, throat, voice box, salivary glands, thyroid, neck lymph nodes, and other structures of the head and neck. Treatment is individualized based on the location and stage of the cancer as well as your overall health and goals. When surgery is appropriate, our surgeons offer procedures ranging from removal of smaller tumors to more complex cancer operations, including neck dissection and advanced tumor resection. Working closely with regional cancer centers and multidisciplinary teams, we provide coordinated treatment planning, surgery, and ongoing surveillance.
Neck Masses and Enlarged lymph nodes
A new or persistent lump in the neck should be evaluated, particularly when it lasts more than a few weeks or occurs with other symptoms. Neck masses may develop from enlarged lymph nodes, infections, congenital cysts, thyroid or salivary gland conditions, benign tumors, or cancer
Salivary Gland and Parotid Disorders
Our physicians treat conditions involving the parotid, submandibular, and other salivary glands, including infections, stones, recurrent swelling, cysts, and benign or cancerous tumors. Patients may notice swelling near the jaw or upper neck, discomfort with eating, recurrent infections, dry mouth, or a new lump. Evaluation may include imaging, biopsy, or additional testing depending on the condition.
Thyroid & Parathyroid Conditions
Our specialists evaluate and treat thyroid nodules, enlarged thyroid glands, thyroid cancer, parathyroid disorders, and parathyroid cancer. Using advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques, we provide treatment plans customized to your condition.
Mouth, Tongue, and Throat Lesions
We examine and treat sores, growths, lumps, and other abnormal areas in the mouth, tongue, and throat to determine the cause and whether testing, treatment, or removal is necessary.
Skin Cancer of the Head and Neck
Skin cancers involving the face, scalp, ears, or neck sometimes require specialized surgical care because of their location, size, depth, or involvement of nearby structures. Our head and neck and reconstructive surgeons can participate in the treatment of complex skin cancers, including tumors requiring removal of deeper tissues or lymph nodes and reconstruction of the resulting defect. We also work with dermatologists, Mohs surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists when coordinated treatment is needed.
Removing a tumor or treating an injury may leave a defect that affects appearance, speech, swallowing, or other important functions.
Our surgeons provide reconstructive treatment after cancer surgery, Mohs surgery, trauma, and other conditions affecting the face, head, and neck. Reconstruction may range from local tissue rearrangement to more complex reconstructive techniques, including microvascular free-tissue transfer when appropriate.
Whenever possible, reconstruction is planned as part of the overall treatment strategy so that removing the disease and restoring function are considered together.
Could Your Symptoms Require a Head and Neck Specialist?
Some head and neck symptoms can point to conditions that need closer evaluation, especially when they persist, worsen, or don’t respond to treatment.
You may need to see a head and neck specialist or surgeon if you experience:
A lump or swelling in your neck
A thyroid nodule or enlarged thyroid
High calcium from an overactive parathyroid gland
Persistent throat pain
Difficulty swallowing
Ongoing hoarseness or voice changes
A sore or lesion in your mouth that won’t heal
A lump or growth on your tongue
Swelling or pain near your jaw or salivary glands
Frequent salivary gland infections
Unexplained ear pain without an ear infection
Unexplained weight loss
Symptoms related to a known or suspected head and neck tumor
Sound familiar? Speak with a specialist.
Your Head and Neck Concerns Shouldn’t Have to Wait
When you’re dealing with a lump, thyroid concern, suspicious lesion, or possible cancer diagnosis, waiting months for an evaluation can delay the care you need.
That’s why Ear, Nose & Throat Specialty Care offers same-day and same-week appointments whenever possible, helping you get clear answers and begin treatment sooner.
With 45+ multidisciplinary ENT specialists across the Twin Cities, we give you faster access to the right provider for your condition.
Specialized Head and Neck Care Backed by 70+ Years of Experience
When you’re facing a head or neck condition, you need a team with the experience, access, and resources to move your care forward without unnecessary delays.
For 70+ years, patients across the Twin Cities have trusted Ear, Nose & Throat Specialty Care for specialized treatment backed by Minnesota’s largest independent ENT group.
Here’s why patients like you come to us for quick relief:
Same-day and same-week appointments whenever possible
70+ years of experience serving patients across the Twin Cities
45+ physicians, facial plastic surgeons, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and pediatric ENT providers in one practice
Trusted partnerships with major hospital systems throughout the region
10,000+ patient reviews and a 4.8-star Google rating
Board-certified and fellowship-trained head and neck care specialists
Coordinated head and neck care across specialties, so you can get the testing and treatment you need in one place
Insurance We Accept
Ear, Nose & Throat Specialty Care is in-network with many major insurance carriers, and we can submit your claim to your insurance provider after your visit.
Before your appointment, contact your insurance company to verify your benefits, make sure your provider participates with your plan, and confirm whether you need a referral or prior authorization.
Please bring an up-to-date insurance card with you each time you come in.
Minnesota Medicaid is accepted, but medical assistance coverage from another state must be reviewed and approved by our Business Office in advance.
If your plan requires a copay, payment is due at the time of service.
Real Patient Testimonials
“It’s very rare when you come across a physician that actually takes his time.”
It’s very rare when you come across a physician that actually takes his time.
He’s not worried about the clock and he listens to what you have to say while you describe whatever your issues are. He’s very in-depth, very thorough and it was an excellent experience as far as I’m concerned. I’ve been through the wringer with doctors and clinics. 10 stars all the way:) I recommend him to everybody!!!
- RH
Dr. Helmen was truly awesome!
He took the time to listen to the frustration and issues I was having with my tinnitus and hearing. I never felt like he was in a hurry to get to the next patient, and felt like he really cared about my treatment and outcome, more than ANY specialist I’ve seen for this and any other medical problem I’ve encountered. I highly recommend him.
- DM
It was a pleasure to have an appointment With Dr.Perkins.
Her resume speaks for itself, and it is matched by her personality as demonstrated by her listening to, explaining to and making a plan for me, her patient. As a retired physician, I am sorry to say that this is not always demonstrated by younger physicians who as a result are missing out on the joy that comes from interpersonal reactions with their patients in addition to their tremendous technical skills.
- PR
Get Care From a Team Minnesota Trusts
Use our provider directory to find a head and neck specialist with the background and focus that fit your needs.
Read about our physicians and choose the right provider before booking your appointment.
Local Access to Specialized Head and Neck Care
Getting Ready for Your Head and Neck Evaluation
What can I expect from my first appointment?
Your specialist will review your symptoms, medical history, and any previous test results before examining the affected area. From there, we’ll explain our findings and recommend the next step in your care.
Do I need a referral before my first appointment?
Some insurance plans require a referral or prior authorization before you can see a specialist.
It’s best to check with your insurance company before scheduling, so you know what your plan requires.
How are head and neck conditions diagnosed?
Diagnosis may include a physical exam, imaging, lab work, endoscopy, biopsy, or other testing depending on your symptoms and condition.
Do you treat benign and cancerous head and neck tumors?
Yes, our specialists evaluate and treat both noncancerous and cancerous tumors affecting the head and neck.
Can I get a second opinion about a diagnosis or treatment plan?
Yes, you can meet with one of our head and neck specialists for a second opinion about a diagnosis, recommended procedure, or treatment plan.
We can review your records and help you better understand your options before you decide what comes next.
Connect With a Trusted Minnesota Specialist
When you need answers about a head or neck condition, seeing the right specialist quickly can help you move forward with confidence.
With 45+ ENT specialists, 70+ years of experience, and same-day or same-week appointments whenever possible, Ear, Nose & Throat Specialty Care makes it easier to get the care you need without months of waiting.
Book today and see a specialist without months of waiting.