Otology: What to Expect
Otology covers medical and surgical care of the ear, hearing, and balance system.
Before
- Duration, one/both-sided symptoms, drainage, pain, tinnitus, dizziness, and hearing loss are recorded in detail.
- Audiometry and tympanometry anchor decisions; Dix-Hallpike test may be performed for vertigo.
- CT of the temporal bone is used if tympanoplasty or mastoidectomy is planned.
- Hearing aid, medical treatment, or surgical options are explained in writing.
- Active infection delays surgery; infection is treated first.
During
- Ear surgery is performed with microscope or endoscope assistance.
- Tympanoplasty repairs the eardrum and middle-ear mechanism.
- Mastoidectomy is planned for cholesteatoma, chronic infection, or bone disease.
- Cochlear implant or BAHA evaluation requires full audiological testing.
- BPPV is mostly treated without surgery using repositioning manoeuvres.
After
- After ear surgery, fullness, temporary reduced hearing, mild pain, and slight bloody drainage can be expected.
- Water precautions, no nose blowing, and flight/pressure restrictions follow your clinician's schedule.
- Hearing improvement after tympanoplasty takes weeks to months; dressing changes are foundational.
- Week 3–6: middle-ear healing and gradual comfort.
- Month 2–3 review; long-term hearing and balance follow-up is planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will tinnitus disappear?
- Some causes improve with treatment; chronic tinnitus care often targets habituation and quality of life.
- Does BPPV need surgery?
- Most BPPV improves with repositioning manoeuvres; surgery is rarely needed.
- When should a hearing aid be considered?
- If hearing loss persists after medical or surgical treatment, hearing-aid evaluation is planned.
- Who is a cochlear implant candidate?
- Adults and children with severe-to-profound sensorineural loss who gain little benefit from hearing aids are candidates; full audiological evaluation is required.
Risks
- Temporary or permanent hearing loss
- Dizziness or balance disturbance
- Facial nerve injury (rare)
- Infection or delayed healing
- Tympanic membrane repair failure
This guide does not replace a personal examination and treatment plan. Base all medication, surgery, or travel decisions on your clinician's written recommendation.