Esther Lee

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About

Esther Lee is a leading voice in head and neck oncology, with a focused expertise in swallowing rehabilitation and functional outcomes after multimodal therapy for oropharyngeal carcinoma. Her work centers on preserving quality of life in patients with human papillomavirus–related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ OPSCC), a population where survival rates are high but treatment-related morbidity remains a critical concern. In her landmark 2021 study, “Swallowing Function Following Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Transoral Robotic Surgery for Oropharyngeal Carcinoma: A 2‐Year Follow‐up,” Lee provided the first rigorous, long-term assessment of swallowing function in patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by transoral robotic surgery (NAC+S). Her findings demonstrated that, despite initial declines, patients achieved stable or improved swallowing function over two years, challenging assumptions about permanent toxicity from aggressive de-escalation protocols. This work, cited 12 times, has informed clinical guidelines for organ-preserving strategies. Lee’s contributions are particularly notable for bridging surgical oncology and speech pathology, offering evidence that supports patient-centered treatment decisions. Her research continues to shape how clinicians balance oncologic control with functional preservation, making her a pivotal figure in modern head and neck cancer care.