Myringoplasty is a surgical procedure used to repair a hole (perforation) in the eardrum (also known as the tympanic membrane). The eardrum plays an important role in hearing and protecting the middle ear from infection and water. When a hole is present, it can lead to recurrent ear infections, hearing loss, and difficulty swimming or showering without water entering the ear.
Myringoplasty involves placing a small graft (a patch of tissue taken from the ear) to close the hole in the eardrum, helping to restore its normal function.
You may be recommended for myringoplasty if you have:
In some cases, the perforation may have been caused by injury, infection, or previous ear surgery (e.g. grommets that didn’t close after removal).
Not all patients will have full hearing restored, especially if there is underlying middle ear damage. Dr Phillips will discuss your specific case with you.
Myringoplasty is generally a safe procedure with a high success rate, but as with any surgery, there are potential risks:
Dr Phillips will explain these risks in detail and answer any questions you may have before the procedure.
In some cases, small perforations may heal on their own or with the help of ear drops and careful observation. If infections are infrequent and manageable, surgery may be avoided or delayed.
However, if the hole persists or causes repeated problems, surgery is usually recommended to reduce the risk of long-term damage and infection.
Let Dr Phillips know about any medications you’re taking, especially blood thinners such as aspirin or warfarin, as these may need to be paused before surgery.
If you are having a general anaesthetic, do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the procedure. You’ll receive specific instructions from the hospital or anaesthetist.
If you develop a cold, fever, or infection before the surgery date, please contact the clinic. Your procedure may need to be rescheduled.
Myringoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia and takes around 1 to 2 hours.
Dr Phillips may approach the eardrum through the ear canal or with a small incision hidden behind the ear, depending on the size and location of the perforation.
A graft is placed to cover the hole in the eardrum. This graft is often taken from tissue near the ear (commonly the fascia, a thin layer of muscle covering or perichondrium, a thin layer of cartilage covering).
Once in place, the graft is supported by packing inside the ear canal, which dissolves or is removed at follow-up.
Most patients go home the same day. In some cases, an overnight stay may be required.
Mild discomfort is common and can usually be managed with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Avoid aspirin unless advised.
You may not notice an immediate improvement in hearing. In fact, hearing may seem reduced at first due to the packing in the ear. This will gradually improve as healing progresses.
Please contact the clinic or seek medical help if you notice:
You will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment with Dr Phillips 1 to 2 weeks after surgery to check healing and remove any packing if necessary.
A hearing test (audiogram) is typically arranged 6–12 weeks after the operation to assess improvement.
Most patients experience some improvement, particularly if the hearing loss was related to the hole. However, this depends on the health of the middle ear and hearing bones.
In most cases, the repair is permanent. However, a small number of patients may develop a new perforation, especially if they have further infections or trauma.
Flying should be avoided for at least 2 weeks or until cleared by Dr Phillips. Swimming should be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks until the eardrum is fully healed and cleared by Dr Phillips.
If you’d like to discuss this procedure or explore suitable treatment options, please get in touch with Dr Nicholas Phillips’ clinic.
To book with Dr Phillips, you’ll need a referral from your GP or specialist. Questions? Call our team — we’re happy to help.
