Repair of Eardrum Perforation

At Atlantic ENT, our specialists perform advanced eardrum repair procedures to restore hearing, prevent infections, and improve long-term ear health for both children and adults.

Find Your ENT Request Appointment

Repair of Eardrum Perforation in Central Florida

A perforated eardrum can cause pain, hearing loss, or repeated infections—but treatment can help you regain clarity and comfort. At Atlantic Ear, Nose & Throat, our board-certified ENT specialists use advanced surgical techniques to repair eardrum perforations safely and effectively. With three convenient locations in Lake Mary, Orange City, and DeLand, we make specialized care accessible for patients across Central Florida.

What Is an Eardrum Perforation?

An eardrum perforation, also known as a tympanic membrane perforation, occurs when a hole or tear develops in the thin membrane that separates the ear canal from the middle ear. This delicate structure plays a key role in hearing and protecting the middle ear from bacteria, water, and debris.

When the eardrum is damaged, it can lead to hearing difficulties, discomfort, or recurrent infections. Perforations can result from several causes, including:

Repeated or severe ear infections
Sudden changes in air pressure (barotrauma) from flying or diving
Injury or trauma from objects inserted into the ear canal
Loud noise exposure or blasts
Head injuries or skull fractures

In many cases, small tears may heal on their own. However, larger or persistent perforations often require surgical repair to restore proper ear function and prevent complications.

Who Is a Candidate for Eardrum Repair?

Eardrum repair—also known as tympanoplasty—is recommended for patients who experience:

Ongoing hearing loss from a perforation
Chronic ear infections or drainage that don’t improve with medication
Ear pain, fullness, or ringing (tinnitus)
Recurrent infections caused by water entering the middle ear
Trauma-related damage or unhealed ruptures after an injury

Children with chronic ear infections or fluid buildup may also be candidates for eardrum repair, often performed alongside other ear procedures like ear tube placement.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The eardrum repair procedure is typically performed as an outpatient surgery and may take one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Consultation and Evaluation

Your visit begins with a comprehensive ear examination using an otoscope or microscope. If necessary, your ENT may order hearing tests or imaging to assess the extent of damage. Together, you’ll discuss your symptoms and review the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

The Surgery

Under local or general anesthesia, your surgeon gently lifts the edges of the eardrum and uses a graft—often made from tissue behind the ear—to patch the perforation. This graft strengthens the eardrum and allows it to heal naturally over time. Some repairs may be completed through the ear canal, while others require a small incision behind the ear. The technique depends on the size and location of the perforation.

Recovery

Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return home the same day. You may notice mild fullness, popping, or temporary hearing changes as the ear heals. Pain is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.

Follow-Up Care

Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing, remove any packing, and evaluate hearing improvement. Your doctor will provide personalized aftercare instructions, including how to keep the ear dry and when to resume normal activities.

Benefits of Eardrum Repair

Repairing a perforated eardrum can offer significant benefits, including:

Restored hearing clarity and improved sound transmission
Reduced risk of chronic ear infections or fluid buildup
Relief from pain, drainage, or discomfort
Improved balance and ear pressure regulation
Long-term protection of the middle ear structures from further damage

These outcomes contribute to better overall ear health and a noticeable improvement in quality of life.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery typically takes several weeks, and complete healing can take up to three months. During this time:

Avoid getting water in the ear while showering or swimming.
Refrain from blowing your nose forcefully to prevent pressure buildup.
Do not insert anything into the ear canal, including cotton swabs.
Attend all follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.

Your provider will perform hearing tests once the eardrum has fully healed to confirm restored function. Most patients experience significant hearing improvement once the graft has fully integrated.

Why Choose Atlantic ENT for Eardrum Repair?

At Atlantic ENT, we provide advanced, patient-centered care backed by decades of experience in ear, nose, and throat medicine. Our board-certified ENT surgeons use the latest microsurgical techniques to restore eardrum function safely and effectively. With three Central Florida locations, same-day appointments, and a commitment to excellence, we make it easier than ever to access expert care for your ear health.

Repair of Eardrum Perforation FAQs

Can a perforated eardrum heal without surgery?

Small perforations sometimes heal naturally within a few weeks, but larger or recurrent ones may require surgical repair for lasting results.

Is eardrum repair painful?

No. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, and most patients report only mild discomfort afterward.

How long does recovery take?

Most people return to normal activities within a week, though full healing and hearing recovery may take up to three months.

Will my hearing return to normal after surgery?

In most cases, yes. Many patients experience noticeable improvement in hearing after the eardrum is fully healed.

When can I resume activities like swimming or flying?

You’ll need to avoid water exposure and air travel until your ENT confirms full healing—usually several weeks after surgery.