Eardrum repair

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These same problems can also harm the very small bones (ossicles) that are right behind the eardrum. If this happens, your surgeon may perform an ossiculoplasty.

Always tell the doctor or nurse:

• What allergies you or your child may have to any medications, latex, tape, or skin cleanser
• What drugs you or your child is taking, including herbs and vitamins you bought without a prescription

On the day of the surgery (for children):

• Your doctor or nurse will tell you if your child should not drink, breast-feed, or eat anything.
• Give your child a small sip of water with any drugs your doctor instructed your child to take.
• Your child's doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.
• The doctor will make sure your child is healthy enough for surgery. This means your child has no signs of illness or infection. If your child is ill, the surgery may be delayed.

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On the day of the surgery (for adults):

• Take only a small sip of water with any drugs your doctor has prescribed.
• Tell your doctor if you have signs of illness or infection.
• You will usually be asked not to drink or eat anything after midnight the night before surgery.
• Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.

Patients usually leave the hospital the same day as the surgery.

• Packing will be placed in the ear for the first 5 - 7 days.
• Sometimes a fresh dressing covers the ear itself.

Until your doctor or nurse says it is okay:

• Do not allow water to get into the ear. When showering or washing your hair, place cotton in the outer ear and cover it with petroleum jelly. Or, you can wear a shower cap.
• Do not "pop" your ears or blow your nose. If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth. Draw any mucus in your nose back into your throat.
• Avoid air travel and swimming.

Gently wipe away any ear drainage on the outside of the ear. You may get ear drops the first week. Do not put anything else into the ear.

There are sometimes stitches behind the ear. If they become wet, gently dry the area. Do not rub.