Precision With Compassion
Dr. Pranay Patel
Otolaryngology/Facial Plastic Surgery, Watson Clinic
Dr. Pranay Patel is truly a man who cares deeply about form and function.
As an otolaryngology (ENT) and facial plastic surgery specialist at Watson Clinic for more than 25 years he has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless patients. He’s achieved this by staying up-to-date on cutting edge research and technology and being uniquely comfortable in what he calls the “fast-paced, intense, and deeply meaningful” work of being a surgeon.
The father to two committed himself long ago to the arduous and winding journey of becoming a top flight medical professional. His path included earning his doctorate at the Baylor College of Medicine, a stint at Oxford University in England, a research fellowship in surgical endocrinology at Louisiana State University and a residency in otolaryngology at Geisinger Medical Center in Pennsylvania.
When the medical director of Watson Clinic reached out to him in 1998 about an opportunity to join the practice in Lakeland, Dr. Patel saw it as a chance to become part of an emerging leader in Central Florida’s evolving healthcare landscape. Today, he remains proud to practice within an organization where he says everyone works diligently to coordinate and communicate in a manner that consistently leads to positive patient outcomes.
His wide-ranging areas of expertise include facial plastic and reconstructive procedures, cancer surgery, cosmetic enhancement treatments and a number of other surgeries.
The most memorable experiences of his career have involved his interactions with patients who are facing some of the most profound challenges of their lives.
Daniel Cline is one example. Nearly a decade ago, he was diagnosed with advanced stage IV base of tongue cancer, which carries a very low survival rate.
As with every patient, Dr. Patel developed a personalized care plan to attack the cancer and give Daniel’s body the best chance to heal.
Daniel, who worked for Publix for 46 years, including as a district manager, first met Dr. Patel in October 2015. During that initial meeting, Dr. Patel revealed the cancer diagnosis to Daniel and his wife, Sheri.
Daniel and his family were rocked by the diagnosis and aggressive treatments that followed. He lost more than 75 pounds during intensive chemotherapy and radiation, medication regimens and the use of a peg tube to feed himself.
Through it all, Cline regarded Dr. Patel as a stellar guide and confidant.
“The enduring connection with him and his encouragement and just knowing he was involved in my care gave Sheri and I a peace in the fact we had a very talented individual keeping up with it all,” Cline says. “I come back three times a year for checkups and I always look forward to seeing Dr. Patel. Even though he broke the worst news of my life to Sheri and I…having him work with us was just such a pleasure.”
Dr. Patel said he vividly remembers Daniel’s determination to “power through the treatment,” and how he barely missed any work as he leaned on his family and the medical team to guide him.
Daniel, now 65 years old, remains cancer free. His experience serves as a real-world example of how a doctor’s ability to listen and empathize are crucial components to delivering exceptional care that makes a difference.
These are qualities Dr. Patel is striving to pass along to his older son, Devin, who recently completed medical school at the University of Florida.
His younger son Dillan, who practices corporate law in Houston, is also not immune to the morsels of advice that stem from his father’s many years as a medical professional. They include learning to “love the process,” taking care of yourself and understanding the power of your words.
“You have to learn to listen, learn to explain, learn to spend extra time with someone who is afraid or in grief—that’s truly the essence of medicine,” he says.
That perspective guides how Dr. Patel and his team approach patient care, especially when helping patients recover and reclaim their sense of self after trauma or illness. He emphasizes collaboration, thoughtful communication, and respect for each patient’s journey.
In his spare time, Dr. Patel is a devout Texas Longhorns college football fan and enjoys golfing and exploring new places with his family. He attributes his career longevity to the people around him—his wife, Tina, his parents, and a dedicated medical team that shares his values.
“Stress always seems to be a constant, particularly in operating rooms where the margins for error are so thin. So having the right people around you, both at home and at work, makes it possible to stay grounded and keep perspective.”
“You have to learn to listen, learn to explain, learn to spend extra time with someone who is afraid or in grief—that’s truly the essence of medicine.”
