Tympanoplasty

What is tympanoplasty? 

Tympanoplasty, also known as Functional Reconstruction of the Tympanic Membrane, is a surgical procedure to repair the perforated ear drum. During a tympanoplasty, your eardrum will be reconstructed from cartilage or fascia taken from your body.  

Although this is not an invasive procedure, the recovery process is lengthy. 

Who is a candidate for tympanoplasty? 

Patients who have a perforated ear drum and hearing loss. 

 Dr Grundlingh will evaluate your case, weigh the benefits and risks and make a recommendation if this is an option for you. 

 Risks associated with tympanoplasty may include: 

Perforated eardrum

Ear infection

Increased hearing loss

Facial nerve injury that can cause paralysis

Decreased sense of taste on the affected side

Persistent dizziness or tinnitus

What to expect during a tympanoplasty 

Tympanoplasty surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. Your doctor will enter the middle ear via the ear canal or through an incision behind the ear. Your eardrum will be lifted, and a graft made from your own fascia or cartilage is placed in the hole. The graft is held in place by packing that is placed in the middle ear and the top of the graft. 

The procedure takes approximately two hours to perform. 

Recovery from a tympanoplasty

Your doctor will give you detailed instructions after discharging you from the hospital including: 

Do not blow your Nose for 2 weeks

Do not participate in any strenuous activities

Do not lift heavy objects over 20 pounds

Do not strain

Sleep with the head of your bed elevated

After two weeks, or until you have your doctor’s clearance, you can gradually resume your normal routine.

If you return to your activities too quickly, you could seriously harm your inner and middle ear.