Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure to repair a perforated eardrum (tympanic membrane). This operation:
- Reconstructs and closes the eardrum
- Repairs damaged middle ear hearing bones if necessary
- Restores hearing and prevents infections

How is the surgery performed?
- Done under general or local anesthesia
- Incision is made either behind the ear or through the ear canal
- Patient’s own tissue (usually fascia from muscle) is used
- Duration: 60–90 minutes
- Usually, the patient can go home the same or next day

Benefits of tympanoplasty
- Stops ear discharge
- Improves hearing ability
- Prevents recurrent infections
- Makes the ear more resistant to water, noise, and infections
- Provides aesthetic and functional advantages

Recovery
- Avoid water contact with the ear for 2–4 weeks
- Avoid situations that increase ear pressure (flying, forceful yawning)
- Full healing and stabilization of hearing occurs in 2–3 months

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can the eardrum close on its own?
- Some small and recent perforations may heal naturally. Long-standing or recurrent perforations require surgery.
2. Is tympanoplasty painful?
- No pain during surgery. Mild discomfort may occur afterward and can be managed with medication.
3. Can I get the ear wet after surgery?
- Only after full recovery (about 1 month) with the doctor’s permission. Initially, the ear should be protected during showers.
4. Will hearing be fully restored?
- In most cases, hearing improves beyond the pre-surgery level. Results depend on the size of the perforation, middle ear condition, and other factors.