Tympanoplasty Recovery: What to Expect After Eardrum Repair

A tympanoplasty is surgery to repair a perforated or torn eardrum. Access to the ear drum is gained either through the ear itself or by making an incision behind the ear. The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours.

Post-surgery

• Following the reconstructive surgery, a patient may experience light bleeding or discharge from the ear canal for a few days. This is normal and not a cause for concern. Similarly, a patient may feel pain in the ear or the ear canal. Normal pain medication may be taken, and these symptoms should disappear after a few days.

Precautions

• For a few weeks after surgery--usually until the scheduled follow-up visit to the doctor--the patient should keep a cotton ball in the ear canal. This will absorb any drainage in the first few days and will help keep the area clean. The patient can resume normal activity, although swimming isn't recommended until after the follow-up with the physician. Be aware that hearing may not return to the repaired ear until 2 to 3 months following surgery.