What is ear drum repair (myringoplasty)?
Ear drum repair, known medically as myringoplasty, is a procedure that fixes a hole or perforation in your eardrum. When your eardrum is damaged, you might experience hearing loss, recurrent ear infections or persistent discharge. This procedure is designed to repair the hole so that your ear can function properly again and help prevent further infections.
Why might you need ear drum repair?
You may need ear drum repair if you have a perforated eardrum that does not heal on its own. Some common signs that you might benefit from this surgery include:
- Reduced hearing capacity
- Ongoing ear infections
- Discharge or drainage from the ear
- A history of trauma or previous ear infections that have caused a hole in your eardrum
If these symptoms are affecting your quality of life, your ENT specialist may recommend myringoplasty to restore your ear’s normal function.
What to expect during the procedure
Before your surgery, you will have a detailed consultation with your ENT specialist who will explain the procedure and answer all your questions. During this consultation, you may have an examination of your ear using a small camera to assess the damage. This helps to ensure that the surgery is tailored to your needs.
On the day of your myringoplasty, you can expect the following:
- You will receive anaesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure
- A small incision will be made near the ear or inside the ear canal, depending on the approach used
- The surgeon will gently repair the perforation by using a patch of tissue, often taken from another area such as the under-surface of your ear
- Specialised instruments and a microscope are used to carefully position and secure the patch, helping to restore the natural barrier of your ear
- The surgery is minimally invasive and is performed with precision to ensure a smooth repair
Aftercare and recovery
After your ear drum repair, you will be given clear instructions to help your ear heal and reduce the risk of complications. Proper care during the recovery period is essential to achieve the best results.
You may be advised to:
- Keep your ear dry, especially when bathing or swimming
- Avoid inserting anything into your ear or cleaning it vigorously
- Use any prescribed ear drops to prevent infection and aid in healing
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short period
- Attend follow-up appointments with your ENT specialist to monitor your progress
Most patients notice an improvement in their hearing and a reduction in ear infections as the repaired eardrum heals. Although it can take several weeks for the ear to fully recover, many patients find that they return to their normal activities relatively quickly.
Benefits of ear drum repair
Myringoplasty offers several benefits that can significantly improve your quality of life. With a successful repair, you may experience:
- Improved hearing and better sound quality
- Fewer ear infections and reduced ear discomfort
- A lower risk of ongoing ear discharge
- Enhanced protection for the middle ear against bacteria and debris
These improvements can lead to a more active lifestyle and greater overall comfort.
Why choose Birmingham Head and Neck Clinic?
At Birmingham Head and Neck Clinic, you are cared for by experienced ENT specialists who use the latest techniques and equipment to perform ear drum repair safely and effectively. We focus on providing personalised care that meets your individual needs and ensures you feel supported throughout your treatment journey.
Contact us
If you are experiencing symptoms such as reduced hearing, recurrent ear infections or persistent ear discharge, it might be time to consider ear drum repair. Contact Birmingham Head and Neck Clinic today to book a consultation and take the first step towards improved ear health and better quality of life.
