Tympanoplasty or Myringoplasty

This is an operation to repair a defect (hole) in the eardrum. The surgeon performs a small incision in the region of the ear to harvest the graft. The graft is carefully placed in the middle ear to support healing of the perforation. The external ear is packed with sponge and ribbon to support the graft until healing takes place.

This operation is carried out under general anaesthetic and you should not have anything to eat or drink for six hours before surgery.

Following the operation you may have some watery discharge mixed with thin blood from the ear, which can persist for up to two weeks. There is usually a cotton wool dressing in the ear and this can be changed for a fresh one if it becomes damp.

Mr Camilleri usually glues the skin incision, so no stitches need to be removed.

The ear may feel blocked for a few weeks; this will be due to the dressing and any fluid, which has collected in the middle ear. The graft can take up to six weeks to heal.

Swimming can only be resumed once the graft has healed. Mr Camilleri will advise when it is safe to do so.

Aircraft travel should be avoided for at least two weeks after the operation. Occasionally aircraft travel needs to be avoided for four weeks.

Painkillers are required following the operation. You should use painkillers that you are familiar with.

One to two weeks should be taken off work.

You will be reviewed in the outpatient clinic.

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

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