What is repairing ear drum perforation (myringoplasty)?

Myringoplasty is a surgical procedure to repair a hole in the eardrum. The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, is a thin piece of tissue that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. A hole in the eardrum can cause hearing loss, ear infections, and other problems.

How is myringoplasty performed?

Myringoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision in the ear canal and then insert a graft to patch the hole in the eardrum. The graft may be made from tissue from the patient's own body or from artificial materials.

Myringoplasty is a very common and successful procedure. Most people experience significant improvement in their hearing and other symptoms after surgery.

Why do people need myringoplasty?

People may need myringoplasty if they have a hole in their eardrum that has not healed on its own. This can be caused by a number of things, including:

• Ear infections
• Head trauma
• Barotrauma (damage to the eardrum caused by changes in air pressure)
• Placing objects in the ear

Who is suitable for myringoplasty?

Myringoplasty is generally safe for most people. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.

Myringoplasty is commonly performed on adults and children of all ages.

Benefits of myringoplasty

The benefits of myringoplasty include:

• Improved hearing
• Reduced risk of ear infections
• Improved quality of life

Myringoplasty can help to improve hearing and other symptoms associated with a hole in the eardrum. However, it is important to note that the surgery does not prevent a hole in the eardrum from happening again. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke, can help to reduce the risk of a hole in the eardrum.

The Procedure

Myringoplasty is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. The procedure usually takes about 1-2 hours.

Pre-surgery – getting ready for surgery

Before myringoplasty, Mr Khatwa will give you instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. These instructions may include:

• Fasting for a certain number of hours before the surgery
• Taking certain medications
• Avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen

Post-surgery – what to do after surgery

After myringoplasty, you may experience some discomfort in your ear(s). This is usually mild and goes away on its own within a few days. Mr Khatwa will give you instructions on how to care for yourself after the surgery. These instructions may include:

• Taking pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Keeping your ear(s) dry
• Avoiding swimming and diving
• Seeing Mr Khatwa for follow-up appointments

If you are considering Myringoplasty surgery, be sure to book an appointment with Mr Khatwa to talk about the risks and benefits and whether it is right for you. Mr Khatwa can also help you to prepare for surgery and to understand what to expect after surgery.