Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to repair a perforation or hole in the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and, in some cases, to reconstruct the small bones of the middle ear. The surgery helps restore hearing and prevent recurrent ear infections. It is usually recommended when a damaged eardrum does not heal on its own or when there is chronic ear discharge that does not respond to medications.
Common symptoms indicating the need for tympanoplasty include:
A damaged eardrum may result from:
Tympanoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon uses tissue from another part of the body (usually from behind the ear) to patch and reconstruct the eardrum. Depending on the extent of damage, the surgery may also involve repairing or replacing the small middle ear bones to improve hearing. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours, and most patients can return home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
While some causes of eardrum perforation are unavoidable, you can reduce your risk by: