Surgery
Tympanoplasty
A tympanoplasty repairs a hole or damage in the eardrum to improve hearing and reduce ear infections.
Quick answer
Tympanoplasty: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A tympanoplasty repairs a perforated (torn) eardrum, and if needed the small hearing bones behind it, usually using a graft of the patient’s own tissue to patch the hole. Repair of just the drum is called myringoplasty.
- Why it is done: It is used for a persistent hole in the eardrum causing repeated infections, ear discharge or reduced hearing, when the hole has not healed on its own.
- What happens: Under general or local anaesthetic, the surgeon places a graft to close the hole, working through the ear canal or a small cut behind the ear.
What it is
A tympanoplasty repairs a perforated (torn) eardrum, and if needed the small hearing bones behind it, usually using a graft of the patient’s own tissue to patch the hole. Repair of just the drum is called myringoplasty.
Why it is done
It is used for a persistent hole in the eardrum causing repeated infections, ear discharge or reduced hearing, when the hole has not healed on its own.
What happens
Under general or local anaesthetic, the surgeon places a graft to close the hole, working through the ear canal or a small cut behind the ear. The operation usually takes 1–2 hours.
Recovery
The ear is packed and kept dry for several weeks while it heals. Hearing may be muffled at first and improves as healing completes. Heavy nose blowing and getting water in the ear are avoided.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include the graft not fully healing, infection, taste changes, dizziness and, rarely, further hearing loss. Success rates for closing the hole are generally good.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Tympanoplasty: frequently asked questions
Will my hearing improve after eardrum repair?
Closing the hole often improves hearing and reduces infections, particularly if the hole was the main cause. If the hearing bones are also involved, additional repair may be needed.
When can I get water in my ear again?
You will be advised to keep the ear completely dry for several weeks while the graft heals. Your surgeon will tell you when it is safe to resume swimming and hair washing without protection.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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