Dr. Michael McDowell, MD, Captain (Ret.), is a board-certified otolaryngologist with more than 20 years of clinical and surgical experience. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, and sinuses. Dr. McDowell currently practices at Jacksonville Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers in Jacksonville, Florida, where he provides advanced ENT and sinus care.
Meet Michael McDowell, MD
Michael McDowell, MD
Captain, Medical Corps, USN Retired
Professional Background
A native of Cullman, Alabama, Dr. McDowell began his career in service to his country, graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1996 with a degree in Systems Engineering before pursuing medicine at the University of Alabama School of Medicine. He completed his surgical internship and residency in Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, finishing in 2006. He became board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery the following year.
Over his 24-year military career, Dr. McDowell retired from the U.S. Navy with the senior rank of Captain, serving in leadership and clinical roles at naval hospitals across the U.S. and internationally, including assignments in Italy, Spain, Guam, and multiple U.S. locations. He held key positions such as Director for Surgical Services and Chief Medical Officer, blending medical expertise with leadership.
In addition to his military service, Dr. McDowell has worked in private practice and major health systems, including Franciscan Medical Group in Washington State, Southcoast Health in Rhode Island, UF Health in Jacksonville, HCA in Orange Park, and Lakeland Regional Medical Center in Florida. This broad experience allows him to serve a wide range of patient needs in Jacksonville today.
Philosophy of Care
Dr. McDowell is committed to a patient-first approach where every treatment plan is tailored to the individual. He prioritizes clear communication, collaborative decision-making, and compassionate care. Whenever possible, he uses minimally invasive ENT techniques that support quicker recovery, less downtime, and long-term relief. His greatest satisfaction comes from seeing patients regain comfort, confidence, and quality of life.
Conditions Treated & Procedures
Dr. McDowell provides comprehensive ear, nose, throat, sinus, and allergy care in Jacksonville, FL, including:
- Chronic sinusitis & recurrent sinus infections
- Nasal obstruction & deviated septum
- Allergic rhinitis & environmental allergies
- Nasal polyps
- Sleep apnea & snoring
- Eustachian tube dysfunction & ear fullness
- Balloon sinuplasty
- Endoscopic sinus surgery
- In-office ENT procedures for faster recovery
- ENT conditions in both adults and children
Personal Note
Dr. McDowell has been married to his wife, Virginia, for 16 years, and together they enjoy raising their three daughters and traveling. Outside of medicine, he enjoys running, boating, using power tools, watching his daughters in theatrical performances, quoting Monty Python skits, and spending time with family.
