Myringoplasty is an operation to repair holes (perforations) in the eardrum. It is usually performed under general anaesthetic and takes about an hour.
A cut is normally made in the skin crease just behind or just in front of the ear. Often, a small amount of hair is shaved off immediately beside the ear.
A piece of tissue called a graft is used to patch the eardrum. This graft is normally taken from tissue called fascia that lies just under the skin behind the ear.
The eardrum is lifted up, and the graft is placed on the underside of the hole and held in place with a small piece of dissolvable packing. A gauze wick fills the ear canal afterwards to protect the eardrum and is removed 1–2 weeks later in the outpatient department.
After the operation, there is little discomfort. Any pain is easily controlled with painkillers. It is quite common to feel slightly dizzy for 1–2 days.
Most patients go home the day after surgery. It is best to take about 7 days off work. You must not get any water in the ear and should avoid swimming and flying for at least 6 weeks.
The graft fails to take in about 20% of cases. The operation can be repeated if this happens.
If the eardrum heals successfully, your hearing should improve, though it may not return completely to normal.
