Frequently Asked Questions

Exactly what kind of physician is Dr. Asher?
He is a board-certified Otolaryngologist / Head and Neck Surgeon—more commonly known as an ENT (ear, nose and throat) doctor. After completing his medical degree (MD), Dr. Asher underwent an additional six years of specialty training, which included sub-specialty fellowship in pediatric ENT.

For Dr. Asher’s full biography and list of affiliations, click here.

What distinguishes Dr. Asher from conventional ENT physicians?
At least five things:

  1. His extensive knowledge of complementary and alternative therapies. Dr. Asher is unrivaled in his ability to explore the entire range of treatment options available to address ear, nose, and throat disorders – from Western allopathic approaches (pharmaceuticals and surgery) to non-conventional modalities (i.e. acupuncture, chiropractic, naturopathic, homeopathic, Ayurvedic, body work).
  2. He is interested in investigating beyond the symptoms, and committed to considering the long-term impact of his treatments. Dr. Asher seeks to discover what’s at the core of physical imbalances – and how to use the presenting symptoms as a doorway to broad-spectrum holistic healing (mind, body, and spirit).
  3. He spends significant one-on-one time at every patient visit. New patients usually spend 45-60 minutes with Dr. Asher; follow-ups are typically 30-45 minutes.
  4. His commitment to using the knowledge he gained as a surgeon to keeping people out of the operating room whenever possible. While he no longer operates himself, when surgery is advised, Dr. Asher assists his patients in finding the practitioner who offers the least invasive technique and best results for their particular condition.
  5. Dr. Asher has extended his knowledge base of chronic illnesses beyond ear, nose, and throat disorders.
Is Dr. Asher an alternative doctor?
Dr. Asher is highly qualified to provide allopathic diagnosis and treatments. However, as an INTEGRATIVE physician his tool kit includes a wide-variety of both non-conventional and standard approaches.

He employs the most advanced diagnostics available and develops a customized, comprehensive treatment plan that draws from all appropriate (and often little-known) modalities.

What distinguishes Dr. Asher from other integrative, holistic and functional medical doctors?
Very few integrative physicians also have the surgical training and experience of Dr. Asher. This offers him a unique vantage point.

Most holistic / integrative practitioners are primary care or medical specialists (i.e. oncologists, endocrinologists, cardiologists.

Does Dr. Asher ever prescribe pharmaceutical medications?
Of course – when necessary and appropriate. However, he will also explore non-pharmaceutical alternatives, with less potential side effects, whenever possible. Or, he may recommend supplements or complementary therapies to be used in conjunction with conventional medications to mitigate some of the potential side effects.
Will Dr. Asher ever recommend surgery?
Yes. His expertise makes him uniquely qualified to assess the pros, cons, necessity, urgency, and efficacy of surgery for any specific ear, nose, and throat disease.

“The most important thing I learned in twenty-five years in the operating room is knowing when not to operate,” notes Dr. Asher.

Patients referred to surgery by Dr. Asher are usually satisfied that they are making the very best decision, despite any inherent risks involved.

He is often consulted for surgical second opinions.

Why doesn't Dr. Asher practice surgery himself anymore?
“There are many fine surgeons, but few others in the head and neck surgery world can offer patients the healing options that I can provide outside of the operating room.”

After a long, highly-esteemed surgical career that included appointments at Harvard, Washington University, and Dartmouth Medical schools he has opted to devote as much time as possible to non-surgical solutions.

Dr. Asher remains up-to-date on the most sophisticated and least invasive surgical techniques for any particular ear, nose, and throat disorder. With patients that do require surgery, he is able to refer them to the most appropriate sub-specialist.

What hospital is Dr. Asher affiliated with?
Dr. Asher has lectured to physicians and medical students at many of the top tri-state area hospitals including Cornell, Lenox Hill, Beth Israel and SUNY Downstate. He maintains professional contacts at every major area institution, keeping current in regard to their medical offerings.

Dr. Asher remains intentionally unaffiliated, in order to provide each of his patients with the most unbiased referrals possible. When patients do need surgery or hospitalization, he has the freedom to match each patient with the best specialist in the City (or throughout the nation) for their particular condition.

What are some of the 'alternative' therapies Dr. Asher uses?
Dr. Asher’s integrative medical training includes: cranial osteopathy, Asher Manual Therapy, meditation instruction and guided imagery, nutrition, and stress management. He has also tracked, over several decades, the efficacy and safety of alternative approaches he does not directly employ.

Dr. Asher is unparalleled in his ability to guide patients through the complex (and often costly) world of alternative modalities as they pertain to each specific ear, nose, and throat disorder. He has worked in cooperation with acupuncturists, chiropractors, nutritionists, structural body workers, movement therapists, Ayurvedic, homeopathic, and naturopathic physicians.

For those with little knowledge of these modalities, Dr. Asher has identified excellent practitioners in each of these areas. Whether you select your own practitioners, or utilize his referrals, Dr. Asher will work to develop the best health care team for you.

I've had massage, craniosacral therapy, and myofascial release treatments. Is Dr. Asher a glorified body worker?
Dr. Asher is a physician and surgeon. With over 20 years of practicing hands on healing and treating over 10,000 patients he has developed his own unique approach to manual therapy. What distinguishes his treatments are the way his surgical training informs his hands – allowing him to facilitate the release of very deep blocks and referred pain patterns.
How did an ENT become an expert in chronic Lyme and other tick borne illnesses?
Many of the common symptoms of these diseases present as ENT issues (i.e. dizziness, hearing issues, ringing in the ears). Dr. Asher’s practice of identifying the underlying cause of symptoms led him to diagnose numerous cases of chronic tick-borne illnesses.
How does Dr. Asher treat Lyme disease?
There is not one standard approach. Dr. Asher has helped many Lyme patients restore their health via a variety of custom-selected conventional and alternative modalities.
What is Glutathione and will it help my voice?
Glutathione (GSH) is naturally occurring and the most potent antioxidant that the body produces. The stresses of modern living deplete it, and it cannot be replaced by food sources. It is safe and can often be used instead of steroids for vocal fatigue. Performers using GSH report increased range and ease of vocal production. Some patients have experienced partial or complete resolution of vocal polyps and vocal nodules – avoiding what seemed to be necessary surgery. Since Dr. Asher introduced this treatment, he has used it successfully on hundreds of performers. Other laryngologists who have since adopted its use report similar results. Although no double blind placebo controlled trials have yet verified its efficacy, empirical evidence continues to support its usage. Our practice usually replenishes GSH stores intravenously – the most effective method – though it’s also available orally, as a nasal spray, or by a suppository.
What evidence is there that alternative treatments work?
Dr. Asher applies the principals of evidenced-based medicine and empirical (anecdotal) evidence when determining treatment protocols.
How long should I plan for my initial visit?
We suggest you allocate an hour and a half. Please plan to arrive an additional fifteen minutes earlier if you do not have all your medical history and personal information forms completed and uploaded into the patient portal. NOTE: Unfortunately the elevators in our building are slow; please allow an additional five minutes. Your visit to the office will include forty-five minutes to an hour with Dr. Asher, and allocated time for paperwork and arranging any necessary testing, follow-up referrals, or appointments. We recommend you maintain an unhurried pace following your visit if at all possible.
Does Dr. Asher accept insurance?
We ask for payment to be made at the time services are provided. We will provide you with all the necessary codes and information needed to submit the claim yourself should you have out-of-network coverage.

Because Dr. Asher is an MD, whose rates are consistent with others in his specialty, patients find they are reimbursed for some of their expenses after deductibles are met. However, we cannot guarantee any reimbursement, nor advocate on the patient’s behalf.

Please visit our insurance and fees page for more details.

If Dr. Asher is willing to treat everyone, despite their ability to pay, why isn't he a Preferred and Medicare provider?
When agreeing to become a preferred provider, the insurance companies (including Medicare) often dictate the course of treatment. That means, for example, they can tell Dr. Asher he has to administer several courses of antibiotics before he can order an x-ray, or that a particular course of medication must be taken between office visits. These restrictions limit Dr. Asher’s ability to develop the customized and innovative approach that is his hallmark. By not contracting with insurers, Dr. Asher is able to spend more time with his patients and provide the most effective treatment protocols.
What is your cancellation policy?
Generally we ask for twenty-four hours notice, please. Details of our cancellation and late-rescheduling policies are outlined in our new patient forms.
If I’m a patient of Dr. Asher’s, will I be charged for phone calls?
Dr. Asher devotes significant time beyond the time you spend with him on your care. However, calls you make to the office other than those made to clarify instructions or inquire about a reaction to a recommended treatment are subject to additional fees. Inquires made about new episodes or symptoms unrelated to a recent visit – or requests for prescriptions (even refills) require careful thought and consideration, often some research, and medical records review and charting. There’s of course no charge if we initiate the call.
Why does Dr. Asher always want to discuss my lab results – rather than just send them to me - even if they are negative?
Dr. Asher always prefers to review laboratory results in the context of an appointment. Lab results offer only a part of the entire picture. In addition, normal ranges are more subjective than many patients realize, so just looking at the numbers without a more comprehensive understanding may be misleading. No matter what your test results are, it’s usually a great time to discuss next steps.
Why doesn’t Dr. Asher communicate via email or text message?
Because his email server and cell phone are not HIPAA compliant, he would be violating government privacy regulations when communicating about personal medical issues via these methods. Phone calls and the office’s patient portal system are both complaint and preferred.
How can I arrange for Dr. Asher to come speak to my group?
Please send your request to: info@AsherENT.com

Topics Dr. Asher has addressed, to health professionals and the general public, include:

  • New Hope for the Headache That Won’t Go Away.
  • Non-surgical Sinus Solutions: Innovations and Alternatives.
  • Less is More: Exploring alternatives to pharmaceuticals and surgery for common childhood Ear, Nose, and Throat Diseases.
  • Beyond Steroids and Surgery: Advancements in Non-invasive Voice Treatment
  • Lyme disease and the ENT patient
  • Easy to learn stress reduction techniques
  • Discussions of fees and honorariums are on a case-by-case basis. Fees are often waived for non-profit organizations and / or those involved in fund-raising endeavors.
large prague clock
hawaii waterfall
footprints in sand
Exactly what kind of physician is Dr. Asher?
He is a board-certified Otolaryngologist / Head and Neck Surgeon—more commonly known as an ENT (ear, nose and throat) doctor. After completing his medical degree (MD), Dr. Asher underwent an additional six years of specialty training, which included sub-specialty fellowship in pediatric ENT.

For Dr. Asher’s full biography and list of affiliations, click here.

What distinguishes Dr. Asher from conventional ENT physicians?
At least five things:

  1. His extensive knowledge of complementary and alternative therapies. Dr. Asher is unrivaled in his ability to explore the entire range of treatment options available to address ear, nose, and throat disorders – from Western allopathic approaches (pharmaceuticals and surgery) to non-conventional modalities (i.e. acupuncture, chiropractic, naturopathic, homeopathic, Ayurvedic, body work).
  2. He is interested in investigating beyond the symptoms, and committed to considering the long-term impact of his treatments. Dr. Asher seeks to discover what’s at the core of physical imbalances – and how to use the presenting symptoms as a doorway to broad-spectrum holistic healing (mind, body, and spirit).
  3. He spends significant one-on-one time at every patient visit. New patients usually spend 45-60 minutes with Dr. Asher; follow-ups are typically 30-45 minutes.
  4. His commitment to using the knowledge he gained as a surgeon to keeping people out of the operating room whenever possible. While he no longer operates himself, when surgery is advised, Dr. Asher assists his patients in finding the practitioner who offers the least invasive technique and best results for their particular condition.
  5. Dr. Asher has extended his knowledge base of chronic illnesses beyond ear, nose, and throat disorders.
Is Dr. Asher an alternative doctor?
Dr. Asher is highly qualified to provide allopathic diagnosis and treatments. However, as an INTEGRATIVE physician his tool kit includes a wide-variety of both non-conventional and standard approaches.

He employs the most advanced diagnostics available and develops a customized, comprehensive treatment plan that draws from all appropriate (and often little-known) modalities.

What distinguishes Dr. Asher from other integrative, holistic and functional medical doctors?
Very few integrative physicians also have the surgical training and experience of Dr. Asher. This offers him a unique vantage point.

Most holistic / integrative practitioners are primary care or medical specialists (i.e. oncologists, endocrinologists, cardiologists.

Does Dr. Asher ever prescribe pharmaceutical medications?
Of course – when necessary and appropriate. However, he will also explore non-pharmaceutical alternatives, with less potential side effects, whenever possible. Or, he may recommend supplements or complementary therapies to be used in conjunction with conventional medications to mitigate some of the potential side effects.
large prague clock
Will Dr. Asher ever recommend surgery?
Yes. His expertise makes him uniquely qualified to assess the pros, cons, necessity, urgency, and efficacy of surgery for any specific ear, nose, and throat disease.

“The most important thing I learned in twenty-five years in the operating room is knowing when not to operate,” notes Dr. Asher.

Patients referred to surgery by Dr. Asher are usually satisfied that they are making the very best decision, despite any inherent risks involved.

He is often consulted for surgical second opinions.

Why doesn't Dr. Asher practice surgery himself anymore?
“There are many fine surgeons, but few others in the head and neck surgery world can offer patients the healing options that I can provide outside of the operating room.”

After a long, highly-esteemed surgical career that included appointments at Harvard, Washington University, and Dartmouth Medical schools he has opted to devote as much time as possible to non-surgical solutions.

Dr. Asher remains up-to-date on the most sophisticated and least invasive surgical techniques for any particular ear, nose, and throat disorder. With patients that do require surgery, he is able to refer them to the most appropriate sub-specialist.

What hospital is Dr. Asher affiliated with?
Dr. Asher has lectured to physicians and medical students at many of the top tri-state area hospitals including Cornell, Lenox Hill, Beth Israel and SUNY Downstate. He maintains professional contacts at every major area institution, keeping current in regard to their medical offerings.

Dr. Asher remains intentionally unaffiliated, in order to provide each of his patients with the most unbiased referrals possible. When patients do need surgery or hospitalization, he has the freedom to match each patient with the best specialist in the City (or throughout the nation) for their particular condition.

What are some of the 'alternative' therapies Dr. Asher uses?
Dr. Asher’s integrative medical training includes: cranial osteopathy, Asher Manual Therapy, meditation instruction and guided imagery, nutrition, and stress management. He has also tracked, over several decades, the efficacy and safety of alternative approaches he does not directly employ.

Dr. Asher is unparalleled in his ability to guide patients through the complex (and often costly) world of alternative modalities as they pertain to each specific ear, nose, and throat disorder. He has worked in cooperation with acupuncturists, chiropractors, nutritionists, structural body workers, movement therapists, Ayurvedic, homeopathic, and naturopathic physicians.

For those with little knowledge of these modalities, Dr. Asher has identified excellent practitioners in each of these areas. Whether you select your own practitioners, or utilize his referrals, Dr. Asher will work to develop the best health care team for you.

I've had massage, craniosacral therapy, and myofascial release treatments. Is Dr. Asher a glorified body worker?
Dr. Asher is a physician and surgeon. With over 20 years of practicing hands on healing and treating over 10,000 patients he has developed his own unique approach to manual therapy. What distinguishes his treatments are the way his surgical training informs his hands – allowing him to facilitate the release of very deep blocks and referred pain patterns.
hawaii waterfall
How did an ENT become an expert in chronic Lyme and other tick borne illnesses?
Many of the common symptoms of these diseases present as ENT issues (i.e. dizziness, hearing issues, ringing in the ears). Dr. Asher’s practice of identifying the underlying cause of symptoms led him to diagnose numerous cases of chronic tick-borne illnesses.
How does Dr. Asher treat Lyme disease?
There is not one standard approach. Dr. Asher has helped many Lyme patients restore their health via a variety of custom-selected conventional and alternative modalities.
What is Glutathione and will it help my voice?
Glutathione (GSH) is naturally occurring and the most potent antioxidant that the body produces. The stresses of modern living deplete it, and it cannot be replaced by food sources. It is safe and can often be used instead of steroids for vocal fatigue. Performers using GSH report increased range and ease of vocal production. Some patients have experienced partial or complete resolution of vocal polyps and vocal nodules – avoiding what seemed to be necessary surgery. Since Dr. Asher introduced this treatment, he has used it successfully on hundreds of performers. Other laryngologists who have since adopted its use report similar results. Although no double blind placebo controlled trials have yet verified its efficacy, empirical evidence continues to support its usage. Our practice usually replenishes GSH stores intravenously – the most effective method – though it’s also available orally, as a nasal spray, or by a suppository.
What evidence is there that alternative treatments work?
Dr. Asher applies the principals of evidenced-based medicine and empirical (anecdotal) evidence when determining treatment protocols.
How long should I plan for my initial visit?
We suggest you allocate an hour and a half. Please plan to arrive an additional fifteen minutes earlier if you do not have all your medical history and personal information forms completed and uploaded into the patient portal. NOTE: Unfortunately the elevators in our building are slow; please allow an additional five minutes. Your visit to the office will include forty-five minutes to an hour with Dr. Asher, and allocated time for paperwork and arranging any necessary testing, follow-up referrals, or appointments. We recommend you maintain an unhurried pace following your visit if at all possible.
footprints in sand
Does Dr. Asher accept insurance?
We ask for payment to be made at the time services are provided. We will provide you with all the necessary codes and information needed to submit the claim yourself should you have out-of-network coverage.

Because Dr. Asher is an MD, whose rates are consistent with others in his specialty, patients find they are reimbursed for some of their expenses after deductibles are met. However, we cannot guarantee any reimbursement, nor advocate on the patient’s behalf.

Please visit our insurance and fees page for more details.

If Dr. Asher is willing to treat everyone, despite their ability to pay, why isn't he a Preferred and Medicare provider?
When agreeing to become a preferred provider, the insurance companies (including Medicare) often dictate the course of treatment. That means, for example, they can tell Dr. Asher he has to administer several courses of antibiotics before he can order an x-ray, or that a particular course of medication must be taken between office visits. These restrictions limit Dr. Asher’s ability to develop the customized and innovative approach that is his hallmark. By not contracting with insurers, Dr. Asher is able to spend more time with his patients and provide the most effective treatment protocols.
What is your cancellation policy?
Generally we ask for twenty-four hours notice, please. Details of our cancellation and late-rescheduling policies are outlined in our new patient forms.
If I’m a patient of Dr. Asher’s, will I be charged for phone calls?
Dr. Asher devotes significant time beyond the time you spend with him on your care. However, calls you make to the office other than those made to clarify instructions or inquire about a reaction to a recommended treatment are subject to additional fees. Inquires made about new episodes or symptoms unrelated to a recent visit – or requests for prescriptions (even refills) require careful thought and consideration, often some research, and medical records review and charting. There’s of course no charge if we initiate the call.
Why does Dr. Asher always want to discuss my lab results – rather than just send them to me - even if they are negative?
Dr. Asher always prefers to review laboratory results in the context of an appointment. Lab results offer only a part of the entire picture. In addition, normal ranges are more subjective than many patients realize, so just looking at the numbers without a more comprehensive understanding may be misleading. No matter what your test results are, it’s usually a great time to discuss next steps.
Why doesn’t Dr. Asher communicate via email or text message?
Because his email server and cell phone are not HIPAA compliant, he would be violating government privacy regulations when communicating about personal medical issues via these methods. Phone calls and the office’s patient portal system are both complaint and preferred.
How can I arrange for Dr. Asher to come speak to my group?
Please send your request to: info@AsherENT.com

Topics Dr. Asher has addressed, to health professionals and the general public, include:

  • New Hope for the Headache That Won’t Go Away.
  • Non-surgical Sinus Solutions: Innovations and Alternatives.
  • Less is More: Exploring alternatives to pharmaceuticals and surgery for common childhood Ear, Nose, and Throat Diseases.
  • Beyond Steroids and Surgery: Advancements in Non-invasive Voice Treatment
  • Lyme disease and the ENT patient
  • Easy to learn stress reduction techniques
  • Discussions of fees and honorariums are on a case-by-case basis. Fees are often waived for non-profit organizations and / or those involved in fund-raising endeavors.