Sarah Kortebein, M.D. – Otologist & Otolaryngologist

Dr. Kortebein is trained in all aspects of Otolaryngology in residency, but also received an extra year of training in Otology, or surgery on the middle and inner ear specifically. This includes cochlear implants, stapes surgery for otosclerosis, medical and surgical treatment of Meniere’s disease, cholesteatoma surgery, surgery to treat eustachian tube dysfunction, and skull base surgery for things like CSF leaks and acoustic neuromas.

Dr. Kortebein knew early on that she wanted to be a physician. She was drawn to otolaryngology because she saw the impact ENTs can have on a patient’s quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means. Dr. Kortebein enjoys working with her patients to find the solution that best fits their needs. “I get satisfaction from teaching a patient more about their diagnosis so they leave feeling more knowledgeable and have more agency to treat or manage that diagnosis,” she says. Originally from East Tennessee, Dr. Kortebein attended medical school at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. Her internship was at Tulane University Department of Otolaryngology, and her residency was at Duke University Department of Head and Neck Surgery Communication Sciences. Finally, she received a Planned Fellowship in Advanced Otology at Pittsburgh Ear Associates.

When not treating patients, Dr. Kortebein enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends. She enjoys staying active with running, hiking and workout classes. She also enjoys reading and listening to audiobooks. One of her favorite hobbies is traveling and getting to know new places and cultures. She is very excited to get back into lake activities as well now that she is back in East Tennessee.