Emergency icon Important Updates
Department Head and Neck Institute
Primary Location Westlake Medical Campus Building A
Type of Doctor Adults Only
Languages English
Surgeon Yes
Locations
Westlake Medical Campus Building A
Primary Location

Westlake Medical Campus Building A

Appointment:
216.444.8500
Desk:
216.445.6468
Fax:
216.445.9409

Additional Locations

Specialties & Treatments

Treatment & Services

  • Airway Stenosis Treatment
  • Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
  • Laryngeal Electromyography
  • Laryngeal Framework Surgery
  • Laryngeal Reinnervation
  • Laryngeal Videostroboscopy
  • Laryngoscopy
  • Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender (LGBTQ+) Health
  • Post-Acute Care
  • Tracheal Resection
  • Tracheostomy
  • Tracheostomy Care
  • Transgender Surgery
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis Treatment
  • Voice and Larynx Surgery
View all 15 Treatment & Services +

Specialty in Diseases & Conditions

  • Laryngeal Cancer
  • Laryngeal Stenosis
  • Laryngeal Tracheal Reconstruction
  • Subglottic Stenosis
  • Swallowing Disorders
  • Tracheal Stenosis
  • Vocal Cord Dysfunction
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis
  • Vocal Fatigue
  • Voice Disorders
  • Voice Issues for Professional Singers
View all 11 Specialties +
Insurance

Insurance

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View All Plans
Biography

About William Tierney, MD

Dr. Tierney graduated from the University of California Berkeley in 2008 and completed a graduate degree in Applied Human Anatomy at Case Western Reserve University in 2011. During his graduate education he discovered a passion for head and neck anatomy and decided to pursue a career in Head and Neck Surgery. He completed his medical education at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine and completed a second graduate degree in Clinical Research Science concurrently with his MD. He completed his residency training at the Cleveland Clinic. After residency he completed a Fellowship at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Laryngology and Care for the Professional Voice.

His interests within Laryngology includes the full range of voice, airway, and oropharyngeal swallowing disorders. He is specially qualified in the management and treatment of professional voice users, the medical and surgical treatment of vocal fold lesions such as polyps and nodules, management of early laryngeal cancers and recurrent papilloma, diagnosis and management of neurolaryngeal disorders such as spasmodic dysphonia and vocal tremor, the evaluation and treatment of post-intubation airway injury, medical and procedural management of refractory chronic cough, evaluation and treatment of oropharyngeal swallowing disorders, and open and endoscopic management of airway stenosis (laryngeal stenosis, bilateral vocal fold paralysis, post-intubation stenosis, high tracheal stenosis).

He is a dedicated clinical researcher and has participated in national studies of idiopathic subglottic stenosis, airway reconstructive techniques, and oropharyngeal surgical outcomes. He completed a graduate thesis evaluating the relative risks of office laryngeal procedures. His ongoing research focuses include airway reconstruction, quality improvement in tracheostomy care, risk minimization during intensive care, and acute laryngeal injury.

Listen to Dr. Tierney on our Head and Neck Innovations podcast - Speaking Clearer: Updates on Vocal Cord Paralysis Treatment

Education & Professional Highlights

Education & Professional Highlights

Appointed
2022

Education & Fellowships

Fellowship - Vanderbilt University
Laryngology and Care of the Professional Voice
Nashville, TN USA
2022

Residency - Cleveland Clinic
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Cleveland, OH USA
2021

Medical Education - Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine
Cleveland, OH USA
2016

Graduate School - Case Western Reserve University - School of Graduate Studies
Clinical Research Science
Cleveland, OH USA
2016

Graduate School - Case Western Reserve University - School of Graduate Studies
Applied Human Anatomy
Cleveland, OH USA
2011

Undergraduate - UC Berkeley
Molecular and Cellular Biology
CA USA
2008

Certifications

  • Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Research & Publications

Research & Publications

See publications for William Tierney, MD.

(Disclaimer: This search is powered by PubMed, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. PubMed is a third-party website with no affiliation with Cleveland Clinic.)

Industry Relationships

Industry Relationships

Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists may collaborate with the pharmaceutical or medical device industries to help develop medical breakthroughs or provide medical expertise or education. Cleveland Clinic strives to make scientific advances that will benefit patient care and support outside relationships that promise public benefit. In order for the discoveries of Cleveland Clinic physicians' and scientists' laboratories and investigations to benefit the public, these discoveries must be commercialized in partnership with industry. As experts in their fields, Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists are often sought after by industry to consult, provide expertise and education.

To assure professional and commercial integrity in such matters, Cleveland Clinic maintains a program that reviews these collaborations and, when appropriate, puts measures in place to minimize bias that may result from ties to industry. Cleveland Clinic publicly discloses the names of companies when (i) its physicians/scientists receive $5,000 or more per year (or, in rare cases, equity or stock options) for speaking and consulting, (ii) its physicians/scientists serve as a fiduciary, (iii) its physicians/scientists receive or have the right to receive royalties or (iv) its physicians/ scientists hold any equity interest for the physician's/scientist's role as inventor, discoverer, developer, founder or consultant.* In publicly disclosing this information, Cleveland Clinic tries to provide information as accurately as possible about its physicians' and scientists' connections with industry.

As of 6/22/2023, Dr. Tierney has reported no financial relationship with industry that is applicable to this listing. In general, patients should feel free to contact their doctor about any of the relationships and how the relationships are overseen by Cleveland Clinic. To learn more about Cleveland Clinic's policies on collaborations with industry and innovation management, go to our Integrity in Innovation page.

Public Health Service-Reportable Financial Conflicts of Interest. Cleveland Clinic scientists and physicians engage in basic, translational and clinical research activities, working to solve health problems, enhance patient care and improve quality of life for patients. Interactions with industry are essential to bringing the researchers' discoveries to the public, but can present the potential for conflicts of interest related to their research activities. Click here to view a listing of instances where Cleveland Clinic has identified a Public Health Service (PHS)-Reportable Financial Conflict of Interest and has put measures in place to ensure that, to the extent possible, the design, conduct and reporting of the research is free from bias.

* Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists subscribe to the guidance presented in the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals and the AdvaMed Code of Ethics on Interactions with Health Care Professionals. As such, gifts of substantial value are generally prohibited.

Patient Satisfaction Reviews

274 Patient Satisfaction Reviews

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.

The comments are submitted by patients and reflect their views and opinions. The comments are not endorsed by and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cleveland Clinic.

Overall Star Ratings
4.9 out of 5
Explains 4.9
Listens 5
Courtesy, Respect & Concern 4.9
Patient Rating of Doctor 4.9

71 Patient Comments

Reviewed on Mar 29, 2024

I would highly recommend Dr. Tierney! He is very personable. Explains and discusses care and follow up. Shares Info about latest studies and upcoming research and findings. Shows that he genuinely cares about you as a person not just a patient.

Reviewed on Mar 29, 2024

Extremely glad Dr. Tierney and Dr. Steven Ball are colleagues!

Reviewed on Mar 27, 2024

I loved Dr William Tierney and Michele. They were incredible and very kind to me and made me feel safe and at ease.

Reviewed on Mar 14, 2024

I was very impressed with Dr Tierney. He was personable, explained my problem clearly, answered all my concerns and didn't pressure me as I made my decision to have surgery. I would definitely recommend him

Reviewed on Mar 14, 2024

Dr. Tierney took the time to answer all of my questions and address my concerns. He is very knowledgeable and caring.

Reviewed on Mar 13, 2024

Dr Tierney is great. I'd recommend him to anyone needing a vocal cord assessment and surgery.

Reviewed on Feb 26, 2024

Dr. Tierney was not familiar with me, but took extra time to discuss my condition and treatment, so that I was comfortable with going ahead with my procedure, after voicing my concerns.

Reviewed on Feb 7, 2024

The doctor explained my options for treatment very well and answered questions with respect.

Reviewed on Feb 5, 2024

Dr. Tierney it was very patient very informative and very generous with his time he was not hurried and I don't know of anyone understaffed that could better represent what you stand for

Reviewed on Jan 25, 2024

Dr. Tierney was exceptionally polite and thorough. I felt very heard and comforted in the questions he asked and the review of my medical record. I felt he cared and wanted to help me diagnose my symptoms. He was awesome, and I would highly recommend him to others.

Reviewed on Jan 25, 2024

Excellent service! Excellent doctor care.

Reviewed on Jan 17, 2024

Dr. Tierney has been very caring and compassionate in treating my cancer and has made me feel comfortable through the process. I feel very happy and fortunate to have him as my doctor.

Reviewed on Jan 17, 2024

I would highly recommend Dr. Tierney.

Reviewed on Jan 9, 2024

Doctor Teirney is one of the best. He takes time to listen and to explain everything. You don't feel rushed. He gives you options and is sensitive to your thoughts and feelings. I will always recommend him if someone I know needs an ENT.

Reviewed on Dec 21, 2023

Excellent! I was able to get an appointment with Dr. Tierney on very short notice and Dr. Paul Bryson was able to be in the appointment as well.

Reviewed on Dec 21, 2023

One of the best doctors working with kids with disabilities

Reviewed on Dec 19, 2023

Very good experience with the Doctor.

Reviewed on Dec 12, 2023

The staff was excellent in getting me in the next day to see Dr. Tierney.

Reviewed on Dec 12, 2023

Dr. Tierney explain everything to me and put me at ease with the problem I was experiening

Reviewed on Nov 27, 2023

Dr. Tierney is Awesome! And my team! So kind , gentle and they take so much time and great care of me!

Reviewed on Nov 20, 2023

Dr. Tierney is a very compasionate Doctor and very thorough

Reviewed on Nov 16, 2023

After my appointment with the doctor, and he made several referrals which was exactly what I needed to do. But then when I left it was very unclear how to get those appts made. Bc there were several, I didn't know everything I needed and who I needed to make those appts with. I missed half of the referrals bc there's a gap in the process from ending the appt to getting these scheduled

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2023

Very good doctor

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023

I would definitely recommend Dr.Tierney to someone. You can tell that he truly cares about his patients.

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023

The entire staff working with Dr.Tierney were excellent. Everyone was caring and concerned about anything I might need while I was at Cleveland Clinic. I couldn't have asked for better. They were wonderful!

Reviewed on Nov 3, 2023

Dr Tierney was very patient, compassionate, and caring. He took his time with me, listened to every concern and feeling I had without making me feel rushed or pushed through.

Reviewed on Oct 23, 2023

Dr. Tierney is wonderful

Reviewed on Oct 23, 2023

Dr. Tierney and I always discuss the options available to me and WE decide which course of action to take. I love this about him.

Reviewed on Oct 16, 2023

Dr. Williams is amazing. This is my first time seeing him. He listened to me bed side manners were EXCELLENT and very respectful. I don't want to see any other Dr. I satisfied with Dr. Williams

Reviewed on Oct 16, 2023

I was very anxious about seeing someone other than Dr. Lorenz. I was familiar with Dr Tierney from past procedures but what a wonderful person. By the time our visit was over I was so at ease. Love him-

Reviewed on Oct 16, 2023

Dr Tierney is one of the best doctors I have ever had. He is friendly, courteous and totally professional

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023

Dr. Tierney spent a great deal of time ensuring I understood exactly what was happening.

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023

Very personable. Dr. Tierney takes the time to explain things thoroughly and even stayed until 5:30 to spend more time with me prior to my surgery. Our appt was scheduled until 5:00pm.

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2023

The staff at Dr .Tiber were extremely nice

Reviewed on Sep 12, 2023

I would rate Dr. Tierney as excellent/outstanding if that was a choice on this survey. In my visit with him, he shared more pertinent information and showed more care and compassion than my current doctor could ever offer. He gave me all his time and attention.

Reviewed on Sep 12, 2023

Excellent, knowledgeable, professional & courteous doctor!

Reviewed on Sep 11, 2023

Dr. Tierney was outstanding. He handled the procedure beautifully. He did an outstanding job explaining what the procedure involved, what to expect, possible side effects, etc. He answered all my questions and concerns. I believe Dr Tierney to be an outstanding physician and a real credit to the Cleveland Clinic.

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2023

Dr. Tierney is so terrific, that it's hard to get an appointment with him for months. But that's ok. I'd wait to see him.

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2023

Dr. Tierney is the best! As busy as he is with patients, working with the residents, he treated me like I was his only patient. He took the time to explain why he was recommending voice rest and steroid. He is an excellent physician.

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2023

I have already recommended Dr. Tierney.

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023

DR Tierney is wonderful to work with One if the most kind , caring and knowledgeable doctors I have ever worked with and this was OR visit number 38 for me. DR T brought his entire OR team to meet me before surgery , that has never happened before and it was much appreciated !!

Reviewed on Aug 23, 2023

We like Dr. Tierney. There was no where to comment on him.

Reviewed on Aug 21, 2023

A wonderful Doctor professional caring and very conscientious In treatment A pleasure to work with

Reviewed on Aug 21, 2023

Will recommend this Doctor to others

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2023

Dr Tierney is an excellent listener who takes one's concerns and questions seriously. He explained my condition with me in a manner that I could well understand. I would recommend Dr Tierney to anyone in need of an excellent Otolaryngologist.

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2023

Dr. Tierney continues to show the highest level of courtesy, care and professionalism. I could not ask for a better physician.

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2023

All contact with Dr Tierney has been excellent. Wonderful doctor!

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2023

Highly will recommend the doctor to anyone that needs a ENT doctor!!

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2023

Doctor Tierney was one of the BEST doctors that I have ever had!!!! He was professional, caring and knowledgable.

Reviewed on Aug 2, 2023

Dr. Tierney is very nice

Reviewed on Aug 2, 2023

Dr. Tierney was very good- thorough and respectful. Good manner

Reviewed on Aug 1, 2023

Dr Teirney is one of the best providers I have ever had. He truly cares about me and my health.

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2023

I hope I don't have to comeBack but if my Florida doctor cannot provide the care I need I would not hesitate to return!

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2023

Dr spent quality time explaining treatment options and risks.

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2023

A great experience dealing with Dr. Tierney and his staff. Very thorough, personable and responsive.

Reviewed on Jul 20, 2023

Dr.Tierney was attentive, informative, professional and knowledgeable and helpful.

Reviewed on Jul 19, 2023

Would recommend Dr Tierney to others.

Reviewed on Jul 17, 2023

Dr Tierney is the best. Totally professional, kind and caring. He always puts me at ease

Reviewed on Jul 6, 2023

Dr. Tierney was pleasant, professional and patient as he answered all of my questions and addressed my concerns. Excellent physician!

Reviewed on Jul 6, 2023

Early thDr Tierney was a great help. He explained clearly the process and answered my questions

Reviewed on Jun 29, 2023

Dr. Tierney is extremely patient and gave me the time needed to explain and answer all questions. I left there confidant in my treatment plan.

Reviewed on Jun 28, 2023

I am so pleased to have Dr. Tierney caring for my throat issues. He is tops in my opinion as a care provider.

Reviewed on Jun 28, 2023

Dr. Tierney is magnificent. Best physician I have ever experienced. Knowledge, brilliant, kind, respectful, engaged. Absolutely in the front of the first rank of medical doctors.

Reviewed on Jun 22, 2023

Dr. Tierney seemed genuinely interested to find out about the patient and didn't just go through question routinely. We were quite impressed with him.

Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023

Dr. Tierney was outstanding. He listened carefully, explained procedures thoroughly, and clearly provided results of his assessment.

Reviewed on Jun 19, 2023

Very caring, answered all my questions and gave me options for my problems. Well pleased with Dr. Tierney.

Reviewed on Jun 8, 2023

It was first time meeting Dr William Tierney. I was extremely impressed with his knowledge and ability to diagnose and treat my problem. That's saying a lot since I have to travel from Chicago.

Reviewed on Jun 6, 2023

Best doctor I've seen in a long time

Reviewed on May 30, 2023

Dr Tierney is an excellent doctor. He appears to be exceptional. Also, he is so knowledgeable. I feel fortunate that he is my physician.

Reviewed on May 15, 2023

Excellent first visit with this doctor.

Reviewed on May 12, 2023

Probably the most caring and thoughtful doctor I've had in my entire life. So grateful I got pointed in his direction.

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