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Dr. Arvin Rao, MD

Dr. Arvin Rao, MD

Ear, Nose, and Throat*

Dr. Arvin Rao, MD is a head & neck surgery otolaryngologist in Littleton, CO. Dr. Rao has extensive experience in Upper Respiratory Conditions. He is affiliated with HCA HealthONE Swedish. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

4.3 Star Rating
Based on 31 reviews 4.3 Star Rating (31 reviews)

Locations

South Denver ENT & Allergy

South Denver ENT & Allergy15 W Dry Creek Cir Littleton, CO 80120
1

Dr. Rao is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Ear, Nose, and Throat

The Healthgrades Choice designation helps you understand the most important factors to consider when choosing a healthcare professional. This designation is earned based on four set standards.
Read our methodology

  • Above average experience
  • Good hospital quality
  • Good patient ratings
  • No healthcare sanctions
  • Areas of ExpertiseDr. Rao specializes in the areas of Otolaryngology & Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. See board certifications
  • Explains Conditions WellPatients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Offers TelehealthThis doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Practices at Top HospitalAmerica’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Excellence Award™ See hospitals

More Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat) Specialists at HCA HealthONE Swedish

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Dr. Rao's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Rao

4.3
31 ratings, 20 with a written review
5 star
81%
81%
4 star
0%
0%
3 star
3%
3%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
16%
16%

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Excellence in all aspects
Unlike a few reviewers, I have always been treated with kindness and respect at the front desk and with Michelle the Nurse. Dr. Rao is caring, compassionate and thorough in his assessment and treatment. I highly recommend this practice.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 11, 2025
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Expert ENT
Dr. Rao is extremely knowledgeable, explains in terms I can understand and friendly in his demeanor, every time I have seen him. Even though he is very busy and it can be difficult to get an appointment, his staff has been helpful to work me in when it has been necessary. I highly recommend Dr. Rao and his office.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 11, 2025
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Dr Rao is one of those few doctors today who spends time with you, answers all questions and talks about risks in procedures.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 04, 2025
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Excellent ENT
I could breathe again. I have been to several ENT’s, Dr Rao is the best. Highly skilled.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 20, 2025
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Dr. Rao did a thorough exam on me and explained what he had done and provided me with instructions on how I should proceed.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 06, 2025
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Dr Rao is an amazing Physician. So professional, kind & courteous. Spent a lot of time with me explaining my condition and options. I would highly recommend him.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Sally – Feb 20, 2025
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Comprehensive exam and treatment options
Dr Rao and his staff were excellent. I have seen him about 4 times now. His discussion with me on my symptoms and treatment options was exceptional. He has already improved my allergy symptoms significantly. Highly recommend
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Feb 08, 2025
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Prompt & knowledgeable!
He is always on time & very efficient in diagnostics & treatment.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Tammy Anderson – Dec 22, 2024
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Great ENT doctor
Dr Rao and his staff are great! They are very professional and kind. Dr Rao took the time to listen to my concerns. He was understanding and answered my questions to my satisfaction. He has my trust!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Pat S – Dec 21, 2024
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Very Thorough
I like Dr Rao. He is kind and compassionate and very thorough in his analysis. I trust him.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Very thorough – Nov 07, 2024
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Thank You
Dr. Rao literally changed my life with the sinus surgery he did for me in 2019. I can breathe freely now and never get sinus infections. He is truly talented and very professional. I strongly recommend him to anyone struggling with chronic sinus problems. I continue to see him for regular checkups. His staff is all very professional and personable making South Denver ENT such a positive experience.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Johnny G. – Oct 09, 2024
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My nose is cured
Broke my nose in 2003 and lived with it for 20 years. Had basically only the use of one nostril for a many years. Dr. Rao operated, and it’s like it was before 2003 now. Breathing easy these days and getting much better sleep. Total win!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Salvatore Veltri – Jul 11, 2024
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Office Staff and Evidently Office Policy - nope!
I waited 4 months to write this review because I respected Dr. Rao, however, i don't want anyone else to have to go through what i did. I've been a patient for several years, however, In August I had two ER visits in a week with a bloody nose - the 2nd time they were considering giving me a transfusion as i had lost so much blood. The ER finally got the flow stopped the second time they tried placing a block in my nose. That instrument needed to be removed in 3 days. When i called Dr. Rao's office to remove the block, I was told he would not see me until February 2024. My Primary Physician even tried getting me an appt with his office. I still have the snarky voice mail his office left on my phone that 'February meant February, regardless of the circumstances.' PEAK ENT squeezed me into their schedule even tho i wasn't their patient, and they were very pleasant scheduling, in the office, and during the procedure. I will never set foot in Dr. Rao's office again.
What went well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Staff wasn't friendly
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Dec 26, 2023
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Horrible office help
He seems good…his office help is horrible. His nurse does not relay questions/concerns but instead insists since she has been there so long she has the answers. Unprofessional receptionist with a your in the way attitude. Turns out I became allergic to the medications prescribed…serious allergic reaction. Follow up in three months…not possible…receptionist made the appointment for 6 months. The Pulmonary side of that office is exceptional….steer clear of Raos….Who he hires is a reflection of him. No online communication available..
What went well
  • Explained conditions well
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Staff wasn't friendly
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Oct 10, 2023
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Dr Rao Helped me Breathe again!
Dr Rao performed a Vivaer Procedure in this office on me, just a few days ago. He was very thorough in his explanation of what he was going to do and what I was going to experience. He was so gentle and clear all the way through the procedure. Only two days away from the Vivaer Procedure and my oxygen levels are up in the high 90's . Sleeping through the nights for a change. I am so lucky I was referred to him by the Amazing Dr. Thomas Li, and appreciate all that Dr Rao has done to help me "BREATH" . He is so down to earth, he just talks to you in layman's terms and answers all your questions. His assistant, Michelle is very knowledgeable and kind. They are quite a team!! Their Receptionist, Payton, is very good at answering questions too..and making those appointments that fit your time frames...Wonderful Doctor, Wonderful Staff!! Thank you, from that bottom of my heart!!!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Aug 30, 2023
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Horrible practice. Michelle the nurse is horrible
I will be reviewing this practice on how bad the office is on multiple sites so people know not to go here.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Apr 27, 2023
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Very disappointed in care with Dr. Rao. He tends to just want to do a nasopharyngoscopy ( numbing your nose and sticking a camera down) EVERY visit for NO REASON! It is absolutely absurd! What is even better is how he smiles and tells you he still can't see anything wrong, but continues to do the nasal thing on you anyway at every visit! I will never go to Dr. Rao again and I recommend anyone to look elsewhere.
What went well
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Ell Pollard – May 04, 2021
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I had a deviated septum and breathing issues. Dr Rao was wonderful, he performed surgery and I was surprised how much better i can breathe. He is a wonderful doctor and would recommend him to everyone I know.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
peggy c. – Jan 28, 2020
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Dr. Rao was born to be a doctor with the God given skills of a great surgeon. He is the best.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
David Henderson in Littleton, CO – Mar 27, 2019
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Dr. Rao's staff was incredible; very helpful and accommodating. When I met Dr. Rao it was apparent that he was very knowledgeable and had a great bedside manner. I was very anxious about having surgery as I have panic attacks when I can't breathe through my nose. He was very understanding and patient with me, and did everything he could to keep me comfortable after my procedure. I am so glad I did it. It went very smoothly! Dr. Rao is a great surgeon and a really pleasant man.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
KV in Lafayette, CO – Oct 04, 2018
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About Me

care philosophy

Dr. Arvin Rao is a highly trained, American Board of Otolaryngology certified, otolaryngologist dedicated to providing premier, comprehensive medical and surgical care of the ear, nose and throat in both children and adults. His specialty interests...read more

biography

Telehealth visits are available.
  • Ear, Nose, and Throat

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • West Virginia University School Of Medicine

    Residency Hospital
  • West Virginia University Hospitals

    Internship Hospital
  • University Of Colorado

    Medical School
  • University Of Colorado Health Sciences Center

    Medical School
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Otolaryngology
Otolaryngology
American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery®
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Self designated 
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.

Dr. Rao is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Ear, Nose, and Throat

    Read our methodology

    Affiliated Hospitals

    • HCA HealthONE Swedish

      501 E Hampden Ave
      Englewood, CO 80113
      Recipient of 63
      hospital awards

      America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Excellence Award™ (2025, 2024, 2023)

      Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

      America's 100 Best Hospitals Award™ (2025, 2024)

      Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

      View all awards

      How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

      84%
      Patients said they were given information about recovering at home
      75%
      Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well
      View all patient feedback
    Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality