Cholesteatoma surgery addresses an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear that can lead to complications if left untreated. Understanding the recovery process is important for individuals undergoing this procedure. This article outlines what to expect after cholesteatoma surgery, including immediate post-operative care, home recovery, warning signs, and the long-term journey.
The First Few Days After Surgery
Immediately after cholesteatoma surgery, patients may experience some common sensations as they recover from anesthesia. Grogginess and mild pain are typical, though discomfort is usually manageable with prescribed pain medication. Dizziness or vertigo can occur for a few hours, or sometimes longer, due to manipulation of the ear’s balance system during the procedure. Nausea may also be present.
The ear will likely have a dressing or packing inside, which can cause a feeling of blockage and temporarily muffle hearing. Some bloody discharge on the outer cotton wool is normal, especially in the initial days following surgery.
Caring for Yourself at Home
At home, keeping the surgical site clean and dry is essential. If a behind-the-ear incision was made, it typically needs to stay dry for about one week. For showering, prevent water from entering the ear canal, often by using a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly. Hair washing can usually resume after one week for those with a behind-the-ear incision, or from day one for keyhole approaches.
To support healing and prevent bleeding, avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending for at least two weeks. Refrain from blowing your nose vigorously for one to two weeks and sneeze with an open mouth to minimize pressure on the ear. Simple pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are generally sufficient for managing discomfort, though stronger medication may be prescribed. Rest, good nutrition, and hydration also support healing.
What to Watch For
Mild ear drainage and temporary changes in taste are common, with taste disturbance sometimes resolving within weeks to months. Temporary numbness around the ear may also occur. However, increased or severe pain not relieved by medication should prompt a call to the doctor.
Signs of infection, such as fever (102°F or higher), increased redness, swelling, or foul-smelling pus draining from the ear, require immediate medical evaluation. New or worsening facial weakness or paralysis, severe or persistent dizziness, and sudden, unexpected changes in hearing should also be reported promptly.
Your Recovery Journey Ahead
Recovery extends beyond initial weeks, involving several follow-up appointments. These visits are for removing ear packing, checking surgical site healing, and assessing hearing. A second-stage surgery for hearing reconstruction, if needed, is often performed six to twelve months after the initial procedure. This allows the ear to heal and ensures no residual disease.
Long-term monitoring is routine due to possible cholesteatoma recurrence. Regular follow-up appointments, sometimes annually, help detect new growth. Returning to normal activities, including work or school, often occurs within one to three weeks, though strenuous activities like swimming or air travel may be restricted for six weeks or longer to protect the healing ear.