Surgical Treatment of Chronic Ear Infections

At Atlantic ENT, our skilled ENT surgeons provide advanced surgical solutions for chronic ear infections, helping patients find long-term relief and protect their hearing for years to come.

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Surgical Treatment of Chronic Ear Infections in Central Florida

Chronic ear infections can cause persistent pain, drainage, and hearing loss—issues that often require more than antibiotics alone. At Atlantic Ear, Nose & Throat, our board-certified physicians specialize in advanced surgical procedures to treat chronic ear infections and restore ear health. Whether for adults or children, our goal is to deliver lasting relief and improved hearing through compassionate, expert care.

Understanding Chronic Ear Infections

A chronic ear infection (chronic otitis media) occurs when fluid or infection remains trapped in the middle ear for an extended period or keeps returning despite treatment. Over time, this can lead to structural damage in the middle ear, scarring of the eardrum, and even hearing impairment.

Common symptoms include:

Persistent or recurrent ear pain or fullness
Fluid drainage from the ear
Hearing loss or muffled sounds
Balance problems or dizziness
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Chronic infections are often the result of Eustachian tube dysfunction, unresolved fluid buildup, or previous acute infections that didn’t heal properly. In some cases, infection can spread to surrounding structures, requiring surgical intervention to prevent further damage.

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Surgery may be necessary when chronic ear infections do not respond to medication or when complications arise. You or your child may be a candidate for surgery if you experience:

Recurrent infections despite antibiotic treatment
Hearing loss caused by fluid or structural damage
Continuous ear drainage or discomfort
Perforated eardrum from repeated infections
Cholesteatoma (abnormal skin growth in the middle ear)

By addressing the root cause of infection, surgical treatment not only resolves current symptoms but also prevents long-term damage to the ear’s delicate structures.

Types of Surgical Treatments for Chronic Ear Infections

At Atlantic ENT, our surgeons offer a variety of advanced procedures tailored to each patient’s needs. The type of surgery recommended depends on the cause and severity of the infection. Each procedure is performed using advanced surgical equipment to ensure accuracy, safety, and the best possible outcome.

1. Myringotomy with Ear Tube Placement

This common procedure involves creating a small incision in the eardrum to drain fluid and relieve pressure. A tiny ventilation tube is then inserted to allow air to circulate, preventing further fluid accumulation. This procedure is often recommended for children or adults with chronic fluid buildup or recurring infections.

2. Tympanoplasty (Eardrum Repair)

If chronic infections have caused a hole or tear in the eardrum, tympanoplasty may be necessary. During this procedure, your ENT uses a tissue graft to repair the eardrum and restore its protective barrier. Tympanoplasty helps improve hearing and reduce the risk of future infections.

3. Mastoidectomy

When infections spread to the mastoid bone behind the ear, surgical removal of infected tissue is often required. Mastoidectomy clears the infection and prevents complications such as hearing loss or bone damage. This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and offers significant long-term relief.

4. Ossicular Chain Reconstruction

Chronic infections can sometimes damage the tiny bones (ossicles) responsible for sound transmission. This surgery repairs or replaces these bones with prosthetic implants, helping restore hearing clarity and function.

What to Expect Before and After Surgery

When you undergo surgery to treat chronic ear infections at Atlantic ENT, you can expect the following steps:

Consultation and Evaluation

Your care begins with a thorough consultation, including a medical history review, ear examination, and hearing test. Your ENT specialist will explain your diagnosis, discuss the surgical options available, and create a personalized treatment plan.

The Procedure

Most ear surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. Depending on the procedure, anesthesia may be local or general. Surgery duration varies from 30 minutes to two hours.

Recovery

Recovery is typically quick and well-tolerated. Mild discomfort, drainage, or ear fullness may occur temporarily. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including how to keep the ear dry and when to resume normal activities.

Follow-Up Care

Follow-up appointments are essential to ensure proper healing. Your ENT will perform hearing tests and examinations to confirm that the infection has cleared and that the ear structures are functioning properly.

Benefits of Surgical Treatment for Chronic Ear Infections

Surgery can dramatically improve comfort, hearing, and quality of life. Common benefits include:

Elimination of chronic infections and inflammation
Restored hearing ability and improved sound clarity
Reduced ear drainage and discomfort
Prevention of long-term complications like bone damage or hearing loss
Improved balance and overall ear health

These improvements not only relieve symptoms but also enhance communication, focus, and overall daily life—especially for children affected by recurrent infections.

Why Choose Atlantic ENT for Chronic Ear Infection Treatment?

At Atlantic ENT, we’re dedicated to restoring your ear health through safe, effective surgical care. Our board-certified ENT surgeons have extensive experience treating chronic ear infections using advanced, minimally invasive techniques. With a patient-first philosophy and multiple Central Florida locations, we make it simple to receive expert care close to home. From diagnosis through recovery, you can count on compassionate, thorough support every step of the way.

Surgical Treatment of Chronic Ear Infections FAQs

Can chronic ear infections go away without surgery?

Some mild cases can be managed with antibiotics, but if infections recur or cause structural damage, surgery may be the best long-term solution.

Is ear surgery painful?

No. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, and most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery.

How long is the recovery after ear surgery?

Most patients resume normal activities within a week, but complete healing can take several weeks, depending on the procedure.

Will my hearing improve after surgery?

In most cases, yes. Many patients notice improved hearing as inflammation clears and ear structures heal.

Can children undergo surgery for chronic ear infections?

Yes. Ear tube placement and other procedures are commonly performed on children to reduce infections and prevent hearing loss.