Myringoplasty is one of the most common procedures performed by otolaryngologists. Here's everything about it.


What is the Myringoplasty Procedure?

Myringoplasty is a simple surgical procedure to repair a tear in the eardrum, the thin membrane that separates the outer and middle ear. (1)


When is Myringoplasty performed?

The eardrum usually heals on its own within a few weeks, but the doctor may recommend surgery in the following cases: (2)

  • The eardrum perforation is large, or has not healed within three months.
  • If you suffer from chronic or recurring ear infections.
  • If you have suffered hearing loss due to a ruptured eardrum.
  • If you have suffered an injury that has ruptured your eardrum.


Preparing for the operation

Follow the doctor's instructions exactly before the operation. The doctor may recommend fasting several hours before the operation, and stopping some medications. (2) 

How to perform the operation

The eardrum patching operation is performed under general anesthesia, and in some cases local anesthesia, and takes approximately one to two hours within the following steps: (1)

  • The doctor makes a small incision behind or in front of the ear to reach the eardrum. He may use an endoscope without the need to make an incision.
  • The surgeon takes a graft of ear cartilage, skin, or may use an artificial graft, places it over the hole, and secures it with special materials.
  • The surgeon covers the patch with bandages, and closes the surgical incision with sutures.
  • You may have a bandage on the outside of your ear and a bandage on your head for a few hours.
  • The graft fuses with the tympanum, and the adhesive material gradually dissolves over several weeks. 


Recovery after the operation

In general, recovery after Myringoplasty is relatively quick, and patients often return home the same day and to their normal routine within a week or two. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to ensure complete recovery and avoid complications. (3)(4)


Here are some tips to help speed up the recovery process:


Rest

  • Get plenty of rest for the few days following surgery.
  • Avoid strenuous activities or any activities that may cause pressure on the ear.


Medications

  • Take pain-relieving medications as instructed by your doctor.
  • The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.


Ear care

  • Keep the ear dry, and avoid getting water or any other liquids into the ear.
  • Use cotton tampons or earplugs while showering or swimming.
  • Do not clean your ear with cotton or any other tools.
  • Avoid blowing your nose forcefully.
  • Open your mouth when sneezing or yawning. 


When does hearing improve after Myringoplasty?

Most people feel some improvement in their hearing immediately after surgery, although it may take several months for their hearing to gradually return to normal.


Swimming and flying

Swimming and flying are prohibited immediately after the Myringoplasty, until the doctor allows it.


Follow up with your doctor

  • Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor.
  • The doctor will monitor the healing process and make sure there are no complications. 


Side effects of Myringoplasty

You may experience some side effects after surgery, such as pain, dizziness, or ringing in the ears. These symptoms are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days. (2)


If you have any severe or persistent symptoms, such as fever, severe pain, or ear discharge, contact your doctor immediately.


Risks of Myringoplasty

Although complications of Myringoplasty are rare, they are possible, like any surgical procedure.

 It includes: (4)

  • Infection.
  • Tinnitus.
  • Dizziness.
  • Hearing loss.
  • Graft failure, symptoms of which are severe bleeding, infection, and taste problems.
  • Recurrent perforation of the eardrum.

 

What are the benefits of Myringoplasty?

Benefits of Myringoplasty include:

  • Improved hearing: In most cases, Myringoplasty helps improve hearing.
  • Preventing complications: Myringoplasty helps prevent future complications from a perforated eardrum, such as dizziness, mastoiditis (infection of the bone behind your ear), and permanent hearing loss.

 

Can the eardrum be patched without surgery?

Mild cases of eardrum perforation heal on their own within several weeks without medical intervention. The doctor may recommend antibiotic drops to avoid infection, but if the condition does not improve alone, the doctor resorts to applying a graft or performing surgery, depending on the severity of the condition and symptoms. (5)

 

 



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