Tympanoplasty

Tympanoplasty is a microsurgical procedure on the eardrum and middle ear bones to restore the middle ear hearing mechanism.

Types of tympanoplasty include:
  • Myringoplasty

Parts of the Body Involved

Ear

Reasons for Procedure

Tympanoplasty is usually done to repair a tear in the eardrum. The procedure can also help to:
  • Restore hearing and treat certain types of deafness
  • Prevent infection of the middle ear
This factsheet will focus on the repair of eardrum tears.

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

  • Large tears
  • Ongoing or preexisting middle ear disease

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Several weeks before the procedure is performed, your doctor may first try to repair the hole in the eardrum. This is done by applying a weak acid solution to the edges of the hole to stimulate growth. If growth does not occur, you may need to have tympanoplasty.

Before surgery, your doctor will check to be sure that you do not have an ear infection.

During Procedure

Outcome

It will take several weeks after surgery to determine if the tympanoplasty was a success. Complete recovery takes about 4 weeks.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge at the incision site
  • Increasing fluid draining from the ear
  • Odor from fluid draining from the ear
  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills