Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) are small devices placed in the eardrum to treat chronic middle ear fluid buildup (chronic otitis media). When the underlying condition improves, the tubes typically fall out on their own as the eardrum heals, usually after 6 to 18 months. Sometimes, a surgeon may electively remove tubes that have stayed in too long or are causing issues. Understanding the recovery process helps ensure a smooth transition back to long-term ear health.
Immediate Symptoms and Activity Restrictions
Patients may experience mild discomfort, managed effectively with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Pain should subside quickly, often within the first 24 hours. Temporary drainage from the ear canal is also common. This discharge may appear clear, yellow, or tinged with blood from the removal site, and typically lasts for only a few days.
If the procedure involved general anesthesia, patients may feel groggy or experience slight nausea for up to 24 hours. Limit activity to quiet play and rest on the day of the procedure. Most individuals can return to their normal daily routine the day after the tubes are removed.
Caregivers should monitor for signs requiring immediate medical attention. These include excessive bleeding, intense pain not relieved by medication, or a fever above 102°F. Persistent drainage lasting longer than one week, especially if thick or foul-smelling, warrants a call to the physician.
Eardrum Closure and Healing Timeline
The primary process following tube removal is the spontaneous closure of the small hole (perforation) left in the eardrum. The surrounding tissue naturally begins to repair the opening where the tube rested. This natural healing process has a very high success rate.
For many patients, this perforation closes within a few weeks to a couple of months after the tube is expelled or removed. If the tube was surgically removed, the surgeon may apply a temporary patch to encourage quick closure. This patching technique promotes natural healing and reduces the risk of a persistent hole.
While most eardrums heal completely, a small percentage of patients may be left with a residual perforation that fails to close. If the hole remains open after several months, the physician may recommend a surgical repair called a tympanoplasty. This procedure formally closes the eardrum and restores its integrity.
Ongoing Care and Monitoring
After initial recovery, long-term care focuses on protecting the healing eardrum and ensuring the middle ear has stabilized. Water precautions are necessary until the perforation is confirmed as fully closed. Until a physician verifies the eardrum is healed, use protection like petroleum jelly-coated cotton balls or silicone earplugs to keep water out during baths and swimming.
Soapy water can enter the middle ear more easily than clean water and should be avoided until healing is complete. Once the eardrum is confirmed to be intact, water precautions are typically lifted. Normal swimming activities can then resume without specialized ear protection.
Post-removal follow-up appointments are necessary, generally scheduled a few weeks after the procedure to check the tube site. Comprehensive hearing checks (audiograms) are also performed to confirm that hearing has returned to a normal level.
Long-term monitoring involves watching for signs that underlying middle ear issues may be returning. Caregivers should watch for symptoms like a sensation of fullness, muffled hearing, balance difficulties, or a return of frequent ear infections. Regular check-ups help monitor the middle ear status and ensure treatment success.