Healing Your Eardrum – What You Need to Know

What Is a Myringoplasty?

A myringoplasty is an operation to repair a hole (perforation) in the eardrum. Holes can happen after repeated ear infections, injuries, or even after having grommets. If you have a hole, you might notice hearing loss or ongoing ear discharge. This surgery helps close the hole and often improves hearing and reduces infections.

The Operation

  • The surgery is done under general anaesthetic (you’ll be asleep).

  • It takes around 1 to 1½ hours.

  • The surgeon makes a small cut either inside the ear canal or just in front of or behind the ear.

  • Most people go home the same day, though some may stay overnight.

What Are the Risks?

  • Pain is usually mild and easily managed.

  • Small risk of infection or bleeding.

  • Temporary changes in taste can happen, but this usually settles.

  • A small number of people may notice worsened hearing, but this is rare.

Aftercare & Recovery

  • You will likely need 4–7 days off school or work.

  • Avoid sports, swimming, heavy lifting, or blowing your nose forcefully until your surgeon gives the all-clear.

  • Keep the ear dry for at least 6 weeks.

Pain Relief

  • Most people feel fine with just Paracetamol, but you will also be give you stronger medicine if needed.

Looking After Your Ear

  • Remove any ear pads or outer cotton wool the day after surgery.

  • If there’s a bit of discharge, just change the cotton wool in the canal.

  • The packing inside your ear should stay in until your check-up. If a piece falls out, no need to replace it.

  • Any stitches will dissolve on their own — no need to have them removed.

Showering & Washing

  • Keep the ear canal dry for 6 weeks.

  • You can gently splash water on the incision behind your ear after 48 hours, and wash as normal after 5 days.

Your Follow-Up

You’ll have a clinic appointment 2–3 weeks after the operation so we can check healing and remove any remaining packing if needed.

If you have any questions or concerns before or after surgery, the team at ENT Associates will be happy to help.