Daniel L. Faden, MD

Daniel Faden, MD, FACS, is a board-certified head and neck surgical oncologist and Associate Professor of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at Harvard Medical School. He cares for patients at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Massachusetts General Hospital and Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, treating both benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck.

Dr. Faden completed his residency at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), followed by advanced fellowship training in head and neck oncologic surgery and cranial base surgery at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He specializes in complex cancer surgery, including minimally invasive and transoral techniques, with a strong emphasis on preserving speech, swallowing, appearance, and overall quality of life. Working closely with a multidisciplinary team, he ensures that each patient receives individualized, comprehensive care.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Faden leads a internationally recognized research program focused on improving the early detection and monitoring of head and neck cancers. His laboratory develops advanced blood-based cancer tests, known as liquid biopsies, that can help diagnose cancer earlier, personalize treatment decisions, and detect recurrence sooner than traditional methods. The lab works collaboratively with complementary scientists in Boston and around the world, translating discoveries from the bench directly to patient care. His work has helped shape modern approaches to HPV-related cancer care and is routinely published in the most respected medical and oncology journals. Supported by the National Institutes of Health, his research directly informs the care he provides, giving patients access to cutting-edge advances grounded in rigorous science. Read more about the lab’s work here.

Dr. Faden is committed to delivering compassionate, precise, and innovative patient-centered care — combining surgical expertise with scientific discovery to improve outcomes for every patient.