Your eardrums play an integral role in capturing and transferring sounds to your brain. Over time, prolonged exposure to high decibels, infections, and trauma can cause significant damage. Hearing loss usually follows and will require hearing aids or repair surgery. There are several surgeries an audiologist may recommend. Below are the basics to help you understand your options.

Common Eardrum Repair Surgeries

1. Tympanoplasty

A tympanoplasty is for patients that have a large hole in their eardrum or infection that can’t be managed with antibiotics. During the procedure, patients are fully anesthetized at a hospital or surgical center. The surgeon will first access the eardrum through the ear canal or through an incision behind the ear. They will then graft a piece of tissue over the hole. The entire process takes two to three hours.

There are some risks to consider, including some hearing loss from damage to the middle ear or eardrum, tissue growth around or behind the eardrum, and nerve damage, so share any concerns with your audiologist.

2. Myringoplasty

Myringoplasties handle small holes in the eardrum. The doctor will access the eardrum the same as in a tympanoplasty and apply a gel to fill the hole. The surgery can be completed in as little as 15 minutes and may only require a local anesthetic.

Some people experience dizziness or vertigo. Noise in the ear—called tinnitus—is common after the surgery, and there can be some interference with taste on the side of the tongue. While these are temporary, it’s important to update your surgeon and audiologist about post-surgical complications.

3. Ossiculoplasty

The ossicles are three small bones in the middle ear that work with the eardrum to organize and transmit sounds and vibrations. When these are damaged from trauma or ear infections, it can lead to significant hearing loss. Your audiologist will recommend an ossiculoplasty. During this procedure, a surgeon will replace these damaged bones with prosthetics or those taken from a donor.

If you have concerns about hearing loss, schedule a hearing test. Ear Nose & Throat Specialties PC has served Lincoln, NE, since 1991 and welcomes patients of all ages. An audiologist will carefully diagnose your condition and begin to explore treatment options. These ENT specialists also address sinus issues and allergies, which you can explore on their website. Call (402) 488-5600 to arrange an exam. Connect on Facebook for more health tips.