Perforated eardrum
The eardrum can tear after an infection, a sudden pressure change or an injury. Most small, new holes close on their own within a few weeks. Holes that do not close can cause repeated discharge and hearing loss.
What is cholesteatoma?
Cholesteatoma is a build-up of skin-like tissue in the middle ear. It is not cancer, but over time it can wear away the bone around it. Left untreated it can damage the hearing bones, the facial nerve and the inner ear, so it needs to be removed surgically.
Symptoms
- Repeated or constant ear discharge, sometimes foul-smelling
- Reduced hearing
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- In advanced cases, dizziness or facial weakness
Surgical treatment
Tympanoplasty repairs the eardrum with a graft from the patient’s own tissue (usually muscle covering or cartilage). For cholesteatoma, the diseased tissue is removed with a mastoidectomy and the hearing bones are rebuilt if needed.
The operation is done under general anaesthesia through the ear canal or from behind the ear. With cholesteatoma, long-term follow-up is important to catch any return of the disease.
Recovery
| WHEN | WHAT TO EXPECT |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | A dressing covers the ear; usually one night in hospital. |
| Week 1 | Stitches behind the ear are removed. Keep water out of the ear. |
| Weeks 3–4 | Packing in the ear canal is cleaned out. |
| Months 2–3 | Healing is complete and the hearing test is repeated. |
Times are averages and vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Will a perforated eardrum heal on its own?
Most new, small holes close within a few weeks. Holes that have lasted more than three months are unlikely to close on their own.
Can I swim with a perforated eardrum?
Water getting into the ear can cause infection. Swimming without an ear plug is not recommended.
Can cholesteatoma be treated with medicines?
No. Medicines may reduce discharge for a while but do not remove cholesteatoma. The treatment is surgery.
Will my hearing improve after surgery?
The first aim is a dry, safe ear and, where possible, better hearing. How much hearing changes depends on how far the disease has spread.
Perforated eardrum and cholesteatoma
We can only discuss the right option for you after an examination. Write on WhatsApp to arrange a visit with Op. Dr. Efkan Mehdiyev.
Write on WhatsAppThis content is for general information only. Every surgical procedure carries its own risks and results vary from person to person. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.