Myringoplasty is a surgical procedure that repairs a hole in the eardrum, also known as a tympanic membrane perforation. The eardrum is a thin, delicate membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. It is essential for proper hearing as it vibrates in response to sound waves, transmitting them to the middle ear bones.
Why is the surgery done - Causes
It is performed to repair a hole in the eardrum which is important for proper hearing. A hole in the eardrum can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as ear infections, trauma to the ear, or exposure to loud noises. This can lead to hearing loss, ringing in the ears, dizziness, and even repeated ear infections.
How is the surgery performed
During a myringoplasty, the surgeon makes a small incision in the ear canal and carefully lifts the eardrum to access the hole. The hole is then repaired using a small patch of tissue, typically taken from the patient's own body, such as the muscle layer beneath the skin or a small piece of cartilage. The tissue is placed over the hole and held in place with a gel-like substance.
What to expect post surgery
After myringoplasty surgery, there are some things you can expect during the recovery period. Here are some common experiences:
- You may experience some pain, discomfort, or a feeling of fullness in the ear after the surgery.
- You may feel a bit dizzy/vertigo or unsteady immediately following the surgery.
- Some drainage or fluid discharge from the ear is normal following the procedure.
- It is common to experience some temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing
- You may need to avoid activities that can cause pressure changes in the ear like heavy exercises, flight travel, water exercises, head bath for a few weeks
- You will need to see your doctor for follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress and remove any packing or stitches.
It is important to follow your doctor's post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
Risks associated with the surgery
Like any surgical procedure, myringoplasty carries some risks and potential complications & risks.
It is important to discuss these risks and potential complications with your doctor before undergoing myringoplasty.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does MYRINGOPLASTY IMPROVE HEARING
MYRINGOPLASTY CAN IMPROVE HEARING BY RESTORING VIBRATION OF EARDRUM
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How long does MYRINGOPLASTY TAKE to heal
2-3 WEEKS
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MYRINGOPLASTY IS SAFE
YES,it can be done under local anesthesia
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IS MYRINGOPLASTY PAINFUL
IT IS NOT A PAINFUL SURGERY. BUT few patients may EXPERIENCE DISCOMFORT WHICH IS RELIEVED WITH MEDICATION.
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HOW LONG DOES MYRINGOPLASTY TAKE
30 MINutes
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WHAT COULD YOU NOT DO AFTER A MYRINGOPLASTY
Avoid blowing your nose hard or letting water get into your ear. This will help keep the graft secure and help prevent ear infections. Do NOT swim or dive until after you have been seen in the outpatients department. Do NOT fly in an airplane for 6 weeks.
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HOW LONG DO STITCHES STAY IN EAR
It depends on the wound you have, but in most cases, stitches will stay for 4 to 14 days.
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WHAT ARE BENEFITS OF MYRINGOPLASTY
Most people who undergo myringoplasty report improved hearing. Young children who undergo myringoplasty can reduce their risk of language delays due to hearing loss.
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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR HEARING TO IMPROVE AFTER MYRINGOPLASTY
Generally, it takes one to two weeks to recover after myringoplasty. Adults should plan to take at least a week off from work. Children should also stay home from school for a week.
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WHAT FOODS SHOULD I AVOID AFTER EAR SURGERY
TRY TO EAT BALANCED DIET WITH SLIGHTLY HIGH PROTEIN WHICH WILL HELP IN FASTER HEALING OF SURGICAL SITE .BETTER TO AVOID PROCESSED FOODS
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WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE TAKEN AFTER EAR SURGERY
HAIR WASH SHOULD BE AVOIDED FOR 2-3 WEEKS .FACE CAN BE WASHED WITHOUT SOCAGE OF DRESSING. BODY WASH CAN BE DONE 24 hours after surgery, but do not soak or scrub the wound Place a cotton ball coated with Vaseline or an earplug in the outside bowl of the ear (don’t use cotton without lubricant or push on packing inside the ear) If water gets in, dab with a dry towel; don’t place anything inside the ear canal. Sneeze or cough with your mouth open . don't try to stop sneezing. Chew food on the operated side also. Avoid foods which will increase chances of catching cold
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DOES EAR SURGERY REQUIRE ANESTHESIA
YES. For adults surgery can be done under local anesthesia but for children and young adults surgery has to be done under general anesthesia.
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CAN I WASH MY HAIR WITH EAR STITCHES
it is recommended to keep the stitches perfectly dry for the first 7-8 days after surgery. Hair wash should be avoided for at least 1 week after surgery. But the time might vary depending on surgery findings.
