Ear, Hear! Things to Know About Your Tympanoplasty Surgery
Tympanoplasty surgery can repair the eardrum or the tiny bones behind it. It is a standard procedure performed by an ear nose throat specialist, or ENT doctor to treat hearing loss or other issues related to the middle ear. In this article, we will discuss the signs that indicate the need for Tympanoplasty surgery, patients that cannot get this procedure, the procedure explained by ENT doctors, things you can expect during the surgery and the recovery process.
Signs to Get Tympanoplasty Surgery
The ENT doctors recommend Tympanoplasty surgery for individuals with a perforated eardrum or damage to the tiny bones in the middle ear. Ear nose throat specialists say some common signs that indicate the need for Tympanoplasty surgery include frequent ear infections, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo (dizziness) and fluid build-up behind the eardrum.
Patients Who Cannot Get This Procedure
While Tympanoplasty surgery is safe and effective, not all patients are candidates for the surgery. Patients with severe medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure may not be able to undergo this procedure. Additionally, patients who are taking blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder are not suitable for this surgery.
Explaining the Procedure as per ENT Doctors
Tympanoplasty surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes one to two hours. An ENT doctor will make an incision behind the ear to access the middle ear. The doctor will remove damaged tissue or bone and repair the eardrum using a graft. They then take the graft from a patient's tissue or donor tissue. Upon fixing the eardrum, they will close the incision with stitches.
Things You Can Expect During the Surgery
During the Tympanoplasty surgery, the patient will be under general anesthesia (as mentioned above), given by the Ear Nose Throat specialist, which means they will be asleep during the procedure. Patients may experience discomfort or pain after the surgery, but you can manage this with pain medication. Patients may also have some swelling or bruising around the ear, which should subside within a few days.
The Recovery Process
The recovery process after Tympanoplasty surgery, suggested by the ENT doctors, typically takes about two to three weeks. Patients should avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting during this time. Patients may also need a protective headband or earplug to protect the ear while it heals. It is essential to keep the ear dry during recovery to prevent infection. The ENT doctor will provide specific instructions on how to care for the ear during the recovery period.
Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates - Your Trusted ENT Doctors in OKC
If you are experiencing any issues related to your ears, nose, or throat, it is essential to seek the advice of a qualified ENT doctor. Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates is a trusted provider of ENT services in OKC.
Our team of experienced and dedicated doctors provides our patients with the highest quality care. We offer a wide range of services, including Tympanoplasty surgery, to address various conditions related to the middle ear. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get the care you need.
**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.