How To Care For Your Ear Following Surgery

Some seepage from the ear is normal. It is normal to change the outer cotton ball 4 to 5 times for the first 3 to 5 days. If you have an incision behind your ear, leave the tape in place. If the edges lift up just trim them. The tape should remain in place until 1 week after surgery.

You can expect some pain following surgery. Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen should be used regularly every 4 to 6 hours. A prescription for Acetaminophen plus codeine will be provided. If you develop escalating pain, increased swelling or increasing or foul smelling discharge from the ear please call our office or report to the nearest emergency department.

The ear and surrounding area must be kept dry until Dr. Bartlett advises you that it is OK to get it wet.

You may go through altitude changes within the first 4 to 5 days following surgery. After this, flying or travelling should be avoided for 6 weeks. This includes driving, flying, etc.

It is normal to experience some crackling and popping in your ear following surgery. Please do not attempt to clear your ear by “popping” (Valsalva maneuver) for at least 6 weeks.

If your surgery if expected to improve your hearing, this will be gradual. A hearing test will be performed during your follow up approximately 8 weeks after surgery.

If you do sedentary type work, you may return to work within 5 to 7 working days. If you are involved in manual labour with lifting or straining activities, 3 weeks away from work is recommended. This also applies to physical exercise.

Post operative appointments are generally booked for 7 days, 3 and 6 weeks following surgery. If you are from out of town, you can arrange postoperative appointments with your local ENT specialist.

If you have had a Stapedotomy, in addition to the above, it is important to do the following for 3 weeks following surgery:

·         Avoid loud noise

·         When closing the car door, close it gently and ensure that you open the window to avoid compression

·         Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities or exercise