Ivan H. El-Sayed

MD

Otolaryngologist
Head and neck surgeon

Dr. Ivan H. El-Sayed is a head and neck cancer surgeon. He specializes in treating benign and malignant lesions of the salivary glands, paranasal sinuses and skull base.

El-Sayed's research interests include examining the value of sentinel node biopsy (a procedure to check whether cancer has spread) for head and neck cancer. He also is investigating potential uses of lasers and nanoparticles for diagnosing and treating cancer.

El-Sayed earned his medical degree and completed a residency in otolaryngology at Boston University School of Medicine. He completed a fellowship in head and neck oncology at UCSF.

  • Education

    Boston University School of Medicine, 1996

  • Residencies

    Boston University School of Medicine, 2001

  • Fellowships

    UCSF-Mount Zion Cancer Center, 2003

  • Board Certifications

    Otolaryngology, American Board of Otolaryngology

  • Academic Title

    Professor

Conditions I specialize in

Where I see patients (4)

    My reviews

    4.8

    Overall Experience
    194 Ratings
    About our process
    Mar 07, 2025
    UCSF team are efficient, knowledgeable, kind. Willing.
    Mar 07, 2025
    I have already recommended Dr. El Sayed. He is a wonderful surgeon, and always listens to my concerns
    Dec 11, 2024
    First rate care
    Nov 23, 2024
    Very happy with Dr El-Sayed. Been with same Dr for at least 7 years.
    Nov 22, 2024
    Doc always speaks so I can understand. Like his personality
    Nov 07, 2024
    Very good
    Oct 25, 2024
    I have already recommended Dr. El Sayed.
    Oct 18, 2024
    The doctor is amazing. He always makes me laugh.
    Oct 04, 2024
    My Provider is really really really really good
    Aug 19, 2024
    Dr Ivan El-zayed took the time to talk to me. Also the resident Dr Shayan was kind, responsible, cordial and friendly
    Aug 17, 2024
    Excellent not just very good
    Aug 16, 2024
    Dr. El Sayed is outstanding and an excellent physician, who I recommend highly.
    Aug 02, 2024
    Dr El-Sayed has always been friendly, courteous and very knowledgeable of his patient and patient's medical condition.
    Jul 21, 2024
    The doctor listened to my questions and listened carefully to the symptoms I had. Your practitioner was also very kind and typed my symptoms on the computer, before the doctor came in to see me.
    Jun 12, 2024
    Dr. El-Sayed is great!
    Jun 09, 2024
    I am lucky to have hime watch over my health
    May 26, 2024
    I would 100% recommend him, and already have.
    May 26, 2024
    Dr. El Sayed is an excellent listener and is a wonderful solution -oriented physician.
    May 10, 2024
    I couldn't be happier with this practice
    Apr 26, 2024
    I take every opportunity to talk in the best light about my care at UCSF
    Apr 26, 2024
    Dr Ivan El-Sayed is the best!!!
    Apr 22, 2024
    Dr. El-Sayed an his team are amazing!
    Apr 12, 2024
    Good
    Mar 22, 2024
    Excellent
    Mar 22, 2024
    Reconent 100 percent .YOURE IN GOOD HANDS
    Dec 06, 2023
    I felt very at ease after talking to Dr. El-Sayed. He was very clear in his explanation and very honest.
    Dec 01, 2023
    Truly exceptional care. Thank you.
    Dec 01, 2023
    My doctor came in, stating he would be dictating on the phone with an assistant. He proceeded to speak exclusively to his iPhone, while giving little to no attention to me. When I was addressed, it was to direct me to position my body. He hurried in, conducted a cursory exam, ordered follow up appointments, and was out the door before 3 minutes. I had to ask him back into the room in order to get my questions regarding trials and research answered. I understand your doctors are busy, but they have to at least have time to pay attention to patients and present care with a modicum of compassionate bedside manner. I work in a very busy healthcare system as well, and understand the workload. However, if you cannot treat the patient as a relevant cog In the system, perhaps you've overextended your care system.
    Nov 05, 2023
    Dr El-Sayed is very caring, knowledgeable, thorough and disciplined, He has a extremely reassuring "bedside" manner. He is excellent in every way.
    Nov 02, 2023
    Dr. El Sayed is excellent and so glad he is my doctor. He goes above and beyond to address concerns and education about my diagnosis.
    Sep 15, 2023
    I greatly enjoy seeing Dr. El-Sayed. Very pleasurable.
    Sep 10, 2023
    Dr El-Sayed is Da Man!!!
    Jul 28, 2023
    All very well
    Jul 21, 2023
    Dr. El- Sayed was personable, listened extremely well and explained things in very understandable terms.
    Jun 02, 2023
    Exceptional doctor, really cares about patients and so knowledgeable
    May 31, 2023
    Dr.El-Sayed is great!

    Selected research

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    Contact me

    Please check with your health insurance plan regarding coverage for this type of care. Not all providers at UCSF are covered by every insurance plan.
    This provider is employed by a medical group affiliated with UCSF.

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