- Some bloody drainage from the ears for the first few days after surgery is not unusual.
- Ear drops may or may not be prescribed following surgery. The drops are given for three (3) to seven (7) days following surgery.
- Airplane travel, riding in elevators, and nose blowing are permitted.
- A follow-up visit should be scheduled in our office for two to three weeks following surgery. The ears will then be rechecked every four to six months until the ear problem has resolved.
- It is best to avoid bath water from entering your child’s ears. Ideally, his or her ears should not be completely submerged in water, however, water splashing on the outer ear generally does not cause a problem. During hair washing, parents can hold the child’s ear down and cup their hand over the ears as they rinse the hair. Other options for ear protection include: (1) cotton, lightly coated with Vaseline, (2) silicone putty ear plugs, (3) other type of over-the-counter waterproof ear plugs, or (4) custom-made ear plugs. Younger children will generally not tolerate ear plugs. Careful precautions also need to be taken with lake water. Studies have shown that there are fewer problems with chlorinated swimming pool water or clean shower water entering the ear canal, however, ear plugs can still be worn for all water events.
- Ear infections can occasionally occur while tubes are in place. If drainage occurs, you may begin the ear drops given at the time of surgery. If the drainage persists for more than three (3) days, or if a high fever (greater than 101.5º) is present, then contact your primary care physician or our office.
- Call Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Illinois for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Myringotomy and Tubes
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