Grommet Insertion

This operation is designed to improve the hearing in patients with glue ear. It is also effective at reducing earache in certain patients. It is sometimes used to relieve dizziness in patients with Meniere's syndrome.

The operation is usually performed under general anaesthetic in children and local anaesthetic in adults. You should have nothing to eat or drink for six hours prior to admission if having operation under general anaesthetic.

The operation is usually performed as a day case unless combined with other procedures. It is not a painful operation, but Paracetamol may be required for sore throat after general anaesthetic.

It is advisable to keep the ears dry for one week after the operation. When washing your hair, plug the ear with cotton wool smeared with Vaseline to prevent water from entering the ear canal. You do not have to avoid swimming after the first week of recovery. SCUBA diving is not advised with grommets. Occasionally earplugs are required if swimming causes earache.

Children may return to school and adults to work one day following surgery.

A few patients have discharge from the ear after grommets. This requires eardrops, which we or your GP will prescribe.

You will be followed up in the outpatients' clinic.

Please contact your Suite at the Alexandra Hospital on  0161 428 3656 if you have any questions or concerns.

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