This page will give you information about a myringoplasty. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.

You can also download and print a PDF version of this factsheet, with space for your own questions or notes.

Keeping your child's ear dry by placing cotton wool and Vaseline in the ear when bathing or washing their hair may prevent infection.

An infection can be treated with antibiotics and a trained healthcare practitioner can clean the ear.

A hearing aid can improve poor hearing.

What does the operation involve?

The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes an hour to 90 minutes.

Your surgeon will need to use a graft (piece of tissue) to cover the hole.

Your surgeon will place the graft through a cut made either in front of or behind the ear, or inside the ear canal. They will lift the eardrum and place the graft underneath it and support it with a dissolving sponge. They will put the eardrum back.

What complications can happen?

General complications

• pain
• bleeding
• infection of the surgical site (wound)
• unsightly scarring

Specific complications

• failure of the graft
• numbness of the ear
• loss of hearing
• tinnitus
• change of taste
• allergic reaction

How soon will my child recover?

Your child may be able to go home the same day. If a head bandage has been used, it will be removed the next morning and your child should be able to go home that day.

Your surgeon will tell you when your child can return to normal activities. Your child should be able to return to school after about 2 weeks.

Protect the ear from water, and do not let your child swim until your surgeon has told you that the graft has worked.

Summary

A perforated eardrum is a common problem. A myringoplasty can prevent infections and sometimes improve your child's hearing.

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