The designation of Brett A. Miles, MD, as a 2026 Castle Connolly Top Doctor for the 11th year underscores the critical importance of specialized surgical expertise in oncology, particularly for patients facing complex head and neck cancers. This recognition, awarded to only 7 percent of the nation's licensed physicians annually, signals to patients and the medical community the sustained excellence and peer validation of a leading surgeon in a high-stakes field. Dr. Miles, an otolaryngologist who serves as Chair of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at Northwell Health - Lenox Hill Hospital, focuses his practice on malignancies of the mouth and throat, including the growing concern of HPV-related head and neck cancers.
The implications of this repeated honor extend beyond individual achievement, reflecting on the standards of cancer care available at major institutions. As Vice President for Otolaryngology Services for Northwell Health's Western Region and surgical lead for Head and Neck Oncology for the Northwell Cancer Institute, Dr. Miles provides access to interventional clinical trials and modern oncology services. His work utilizes state-of-the-art techniques such as Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), microvascular reconstructive surgery, and computerized virtual surgical planning, which are pivotal for improving patient outcomes in surgeries requiring precision and advanced reconstruction.
For patients diagnosed with head and neck tumors, the assurance of a Top Doctor-level surgeon employing these technologies can significantly impact treatment success and quality of life post-surgery. Dr. Miles's dual board certification in Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, combined with his fellowship training in Head and Neck Oncology and Microvascular Surgery, represents a multidisciplinary approach essential for tackling complex oncologic conditions. His role as a Professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and his publication of over 200 peer-reviewed articles further contribute to advancing the field through education and research.
The selection process for Castle Connolly Top Doctors, detailed at https://castleconnolly.com, involves peer nominations and a physician-led review based on criteria like medical education, training, and hospital appointments, with no payment involved. This methodology ensures that the recognition is merit-based, offering a reliable guide for patients seeking top-tier medical care. In an era where cancer rates, including those linked to HPV, are a significant public health concern, having consistently recognized experts like Dr. Miles is vital for driving innovation and setting high standards in surgical oncology, ultimately benefiting the healthcare industry and patient outcomes worldwide.
