Highlights
Age Groups Seen
- Adult
Languages
- English
Gender
MaleAbout Michael Benninger
Biography
Dr. Michael S. Benninger is Professor and Chair of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery in the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine and the Immediate Past-Chair of the Head & Neck Institute at Cleveland Clinic
He is the President of the International Association of Phonosurgery, Vice President of the Voice Foundation, President-Elect of the Triological Society and member of the Board of Governors of the American College of Surgeons. He is also a Past-President of the American Laryngologic Association, American Rhinologic Society, the Michigan Oto-Laryngological Society and the Northeast Ohio ENT Society; Past Treasurer of the American Broncho-Esophagological Association, and a Past Vice-President of the Triological Society. He served on the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery for 12 years, having been both a former Vice President and Chairman of the Board of Governors of that organization. He is the former Editor-in-Chief of the Journal, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. He has served on the Residency Review Committee for Otolaryngology and as a member of the Medical Advisory Board for WebMD. He is the Past-Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Sinus and Allergy Health Partnership.
Dr. Benninger has authored or edited 10 books and has 1 additional book in press. He also has written more than 100 book chapters and over 210 scientific articles, focusing primarily on voice care and laryngology, nasal and sinus disease, and healthcare management.
A graduate of Harvard University, Dr. Benninger received his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and completed his residency at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
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Locations
- Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
- 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195
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- A Building - Crile Building
- 2049 East 100th Street, Cleveland, OH 44106
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- Twinsburg Family Health and Surgery Center
- 8701 Darrow Road, Twinsburg, OH 44087
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Education & Board Certifications
Education
- Residency: Cleveland Clinic, 1988
- Medical Education: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 1983
- Undergraduate: Harvard University, 1978
Board Certifications
- Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery: American Board of Otolaryngology, 1988
Professional Highlights
- Chair, Cleveland Clinic Head & Neck Institute, 2008-2020
- President, International Association of Phonosurgery
- Treasurer, American Broncho-Esophagological Association
- Vice-President and member of the Board of Directors, The Voice Foundation
- President, American Laryngological Association, 2011-2012
- President, American Rhinologic Society, 1997 – 1998
- Editor-in-Chief, Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, 2000 – 2006
- Chairman, Board of Governors, 1996 – 1997
- Vice-President, 1998 – 2000
- Board of Directors, 1995 – 2006
- American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
- Chairman, Board of Governors, Henry Ford Medical Group, 2007
- Treasurer, American Laryngological Association, 2007 – 2008
- Board of Directors, Ear Nose and Throat Nursing Foundation, 2004-2005
- President, Michigan Otolaryngological Society, 1995-1997
- Board of Directors, The Voice Foundation, 1996-2012
- Chairman, Sinus and Allergy Health Partnership, 2002-2004
- Medical Advisory Board, WebMD, 1999-2002
- Resident Review Committee for Otolaryngology, 1998-2003
- Delegate, house of Delegates, American Medical Association, 1998-2002
Awards
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, Case Western Reserve University, 1983
- First Place, Resident Essay Award. Benninger MS, Roberts JK, Tucker HM, Levine HL, Wood BG.& Squamous Cell CA of the Head and Neck in Patients 40 years of Age and Younger. Northeast Ohio Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery Society, May, 1987
- First Place, Resident Essay Award. Benninger MS, Levine HL, Sebek BA. Mucosal Regeneration of the Maxillary Sinus After Surgery. Northeast Ohio Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery Society, April, 1988
- Honorable Mention, Maurice H. Cottle Honor Award, Mucosal Regeneration of the Maxillary Sinus After Surgery. American Rhinologic Society, 1988
- Physicians Recognition Award, American Medical Association, 1991
- Teaching Award, Osler Institute - Otolaryngology Review Course, 1992
- Teaching Award, Osler Institute - Otolaryngology Review Course, 1993
- Recognition of Innovation in Medical Management. American College of Physician Executives, 1995
- Honor Award, American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 1996
- Excellence in Research Award for Clinicians, BCBSM Foundation, 1996
- President's Award, Michigan State Medical Society, 1998
- Collegium Medicorum Theatri, 1999
- Golden Head Mirror Honor Award, Meritorious Sharing in the Service of Rhinology, American Rhinologic Society, 2000
- Distinguished Service Award, American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2001
- Richard D. Nichols Outstanding Residency Teaching Award, 2001
- Presidential Citation, American Rhinologic Society, 2004
- Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 2008
- Distinguished Service Award, American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2008
- Special Recognition, The Ohio House of Representatives, 2009
- G. Paul Moore Lecturer, The Voice Foundation, 2009
- Citations Directory, Who's Who Among Rising Young Americans, 1990
- Citations Directory, Who's Who Among Rising Young Americans, 1991
- 2000 Notable American Men. The American Biographical Institute, 1991-1992
- Citations Directory, Who's Who Among Rising Young Americans, 1993
- 2000 Notable American Men, American Biographical Institute, 1994-1995
- Best Doctors in America (Midwest Region), 1996-1997
- Strathmore's Who's Who Honored Member, 1998-1999
- Best Doctors in America, National 4th listing, 1998
- Best Doctors in Michigan, 1998
- National Register's Who's Who in Executives and Businesses, 1999
- Top Doctors, Center for the Study of Services Consumer's Checkbook, 1999
- Strathmore's Who's Who Millennium Edition, 2000-2001
- Best Doctors in America, 2000
- Guide to Top Doctors, 2000
- Life Member of the National Registry of Who's Who, 2001
- America's Top Doctors, Castle Connolly, 2001
- Honored Member of Strathmore's Who's Who, 2001-2002 Edition
- Top Doctors, Guide to Top Doctors, Center for the Study of Services, 2002
- 2000 Outstanding Intellectuals of the 21st Century, 2002
- America's Top Doctors, Castle Connelly, 2002
- International Scientist of the Year, International Biographical Centre, 2002
- Strathmore's Who's Who, 2002-2003 Edition
- Who's Who in the 21st Century, International Biographical Center, 2002
- Who's Who in Executives and Business, Nationwide Register, 2002-2003
- Outstanding Scientists of the 21st Century, 1st Edition, International Biographical Centre, 2002
- Top Doctors, Consumer Checkbook, Center for Study of Services, 2002
- 2000 Eminent Scientists of Today, International Biographical Center, 2002
- Metro Detroit's Best Doctors, Hour Magazine, 2002
- 21st Century Award for Achievement, International Biographical Centre, 2002
- Marquis Who's Who in America 2003
- America's Cosmetic Doctors and Dentists, Castle Connolly, 2003
- 1000 Great Scientists, IBC, 2003
- International Man of the Year 2003, International Biographical Centre, 2003
- Who's Who in Executives and Professionals, National Register, 2003
- Top Doctors, Consumer's Guide to Top Doctors, 2003
- Living Legends, International Biographical Centre, 2003
- America's Top Doctors, Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., 2003
- Who's Who in America, Marquis Who's Who, 58th Edition, 2004
- Who's Who in Executives and Professionals, National Register, 2004-2005
- America's Top Doctors, Castle Connolly, 2004
- America's Cosmetic Doctors and Dentists, Castle Connolly, 2004
- Best 100 Doctor's, Hour Magazine, Detroit, August, 2004
- Best Doctor's in Michigan, 2004
- Who's Who in America, Marquis Who's Who, 59th Edition, 2005
- America's Top Doctors, Castle Connolly, 2005
- Best 100 Doctor's, Hour Magazine, Detroit, September, 2005
- 2005 Man of Achievement Award, American Biographical Institute, 2005
- International Professional of the Year, International Biographical Centre, 2005
- Best Doctors in America, Best Doctors, Inc. 2005-2006
- Who's Who in America, Marquis Who's Who, 60th Edition, 2006
- International Directory of Experts and Expertise, American Biographical Institute, 2006
- Who's Who in Medicine and Healthcare, Marquis Who's Who, 2006-2007
- Who's Who in Executives and Professionals, Global Registry, 2006-2007
- Manchester Who's Who Among Executives and Professionals in Human Resources, 2005-2006
- International Health professional of the Year, International Biographical Centre, 2006
- Best Doctor's, Best of U.S., 2007
- Best Doctors in America, Best Doctors, Inc. 2007-2008
- Best Doctors, Hour Magazine, Detroit, 2007
- Best Doctors, Cleveland Magazine, 2008
- Best Doctors, Cleveland Magazine, 2009
- America's Top Doctors, Castle Connelly, 2009
- America's Top Physicians, Consumers Research Council of America, 2009
- Who's Who in America, Marquis Who's Who, 2010
- Best Doctors in America, Best Doctors, Inc. 2009-2010
- Who's Who in America, Marquis Who's Who, 2011
- Best Doctors in America, Best Doctors, Inc, 2011-2012
- Best Doctors, Cleveland Magazine, 2010
- America Top Doctors, Castle Connelly, 2011
- America Top Physicians, Consumer Research council of America, 2011
- US News and World Report Top Doctors (Top 1%), 2011
Professional Memberships
American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, 1988; American College of Surgeons (Fellow, 1991); American Medical Association, 1983; American Rhinologic Society (Member, 1989; Fellow, 1995); Michigan Oto-Laryngological Society, 1988; Michigan State Medical Society, 1988; Oakland County Medical Society, 1988; Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, 1983; Southeastern Michigan Voice Study Group, 1988-1993; United States Medical Triathlon Association, 1989-1994; Henry Ford Hospital Medical Association, 1989; Voice Foundation, 1990; Association of Otolaryngology Administrators, 1991; International Association of Phonosurgeons, 1992; Association of Academic Departments of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 1992; Northeastern Ohio Otolaryngologic Society - Honorary Member, 1993; American College of Physician Executives, 1993; Illinois Otolaryngologic - Ophthalmologic Society - Honorary Member, 1993; Society of University Otolaryngologists, 1993; American Head and Neck Society (formerly the American Society for Head and Neck Surgery) (Active Fellow) 1994; The Triological Society (Fellow), 1998; Colligium Medicorum Theatri, 1999; American Laryngological Society (Active Fellow), 1999; American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy, Associate Member, 2003; South African Society of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Honorary Member, 2010
Innovations & Patents
Microinstrumentation for laryngeal and vocal fold surgery
Research & Publications
See publications for this provider. (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
Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists collaborate with industry to advance medical breakthroughs. These partnerships help commercialize discoveries for public benefit while maintaining scientific integrity. To ensure transparency and minimize potential bias, Cleveland Clinic reviews these relationships and publicly discloses when physicians/scientists receive significant compensation for consulting, serve in fiduciary roles, receive royalties, or hold equity interests related to their work. We manage potential conflicts through approval processes, annual reporting, and targeted management plans.
As of 2026-03-24, Dr. Benninger has reported the financial relationships with the companies listed below.
Consulting and/or Speaking. Dr. Benninger receives fees of $5,000 or more per year (or, in rare cases, equity or stock options) as a paid consultant, speaker or as a member of an advisory committee for the following companies:
- Clinical Care Options, LLC
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.
Insurances Accepted
Video
Ratings & Reviews
4.8 out of 5
230 ratings, 27 reviewsThe Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/25/2026
I will forever be grateful to Dr Benninger!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/5/2026
Dr Beninger was great. Doing all he can to help me.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/23/2026
Can't say enough nice things about Dr Benninger, he's an amazing medical professional and I would absolutely recommend him to family and friends and anyone else who needs a quality doctor in this field,,,very satisfied and grateful for the care he has provided for me.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/8/2026
Dr Benniger is phenomenal. He has discovered several conditions of mine, and managed to treat them all very effectively. He's a gem!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/18/2025
The doctor was excellent. He provided a solution for a problem that I had been having for many years. Very clearly explained my condition, treatment and what to expect. I could not be more satisfied.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/4/2025
Excellent doctor and a credit to Cleveland Clinic
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/2/2025
Dr Benninger is very comforting and informative when explaining the procedure. He genuinely cares about his patients
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/19/2025
Dr Benninger and staff were very kind and very understanding . I will continue my care with him.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/16/2025
An excellent visit with the doctor and ancillary personnel.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/9/2025
Staff and doctor very good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/9/2025
Dr. Benniger was great. He new I was getting anxious and did a good job of calming me down.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/9/2025
Dr. Benninger , is Not only excellent as a physician, but it's a very kind and thoughtful doctor. Very much appreciate him seeing me.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/7/2025
Dr Beninger explained everything so well. He answered all my questions and helped me in deciding the best course of action.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/24/2025
Doctor Benninger has been excellent through out the 15 years under his care. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing his field of care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/19/2025
Dr. Benninger rates an Outstanding
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/20/2025
Dr. Benninger is an outstanding doctor and person
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/20/2025
Can't say enough good things about Dr. Benninger and the Cleveland Clinic
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/11/2025
Dr Benninger was very clear and attentive to my needs. Made some good suggestions.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/30/2025
Dr.B, is excellent and explains everything.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/30/2025
Ashley and Dr. B are GREAT!!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/28/2025
Dr.Benniinger is awesome. Very caring and spent a lot of time answering our questions.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/18/2025
Dr. Benninger is the consummate professional. He is an excellent listener and addresses each of my concerns
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/28/2025
Dr Benninger is phenomenal. He uncovered issues that no other doctor or hospital system has taken note of.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/21/2025
The fellow working with Dr. Benninger conducted the tests and scope. She was amazing, thoughtful and compassionate.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/21/2025
I am talking about Dr. Benninger. He was awesome. I already contacted my former voice teacher to recommend Dr. Benninger.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/2/2025
Dr Benninger has great communication skills and listens to his patients and is very patient in explaining his diagnosis and discussing potential treatments. I highly recommend him.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/2/2025
Dr. Benninger is remarkable and always makes me feel at ease while navigating my medical condition. I trust him with my care and feel he genuinely cares about my health and treatment plan.