Dr. Zafar Sayed

Biography

Zafar Sayed, MD, specializes in otolaryngology surgery with a focus on head and neck surgical oncology. He treats a variety of benign and malignant tumors, utilizing transoral robotic surgery, a minimally invasive technique that uses robotic instruments to remove tumors from the mouth, which offers benefits such as reduced recovery time and postoperative discomfort. Dr. Sayed obtained his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his residency in otolaryngology at Northwestern University McGaw Medical Center. He further specialized with a fellowship in ablative head and neck surgical oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. An active member of the American Head and Neck Society, Dr. Sayed's clinical practice emphasizes the treatment of advanced skin cancers, aerodigestive tract tumors, salivary gland tumors, and thyroid disease, with a focus on reconstruction and improving function while decreasing patient morbidity. He has held significant positions, including leading the head and neck surgical oncology team at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and serving as Director of the multidisciplinary head and neck tumor board. In 2021, he was appointed Chief of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at the Nebraska – Northwest Iowa Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and in 2023, he joined the faculty at Yale University’s Smilow Cancer Center.

Research Interests