Grommets treat Glue Ear
Hearing usually returns to normal immediately
Avoid getting water in your ears for 4 weeks after surgery
THE PROCEDURE
This procedure takes around 10 minutes and is performed under general anaesthetic as a day case.
Using a microscope, the middle ear fluid known as Glue Ear, is removed with suction through a small incision in the eardrum. Small tubes called Grommets are inserted in the ear drum.
AFTERCARE
The procedure is surprisingly pain-less and pain-killers are rarely required.
However, to prevent the Grommets from blocking, antibiotic ear drops are usually prescribed for 5 days.
You should avoid getting water in your ears for 4 weeks after surgery.
Most people can get their ears wet after this, but occasionally ear plugs/swimming cap need to be used to prevent ear infections.
A hearing test is performed several weeks after Grommet insertion to ensure the hearing has returned to normal.
The Grommets will work their way out of the ear after 12-18 months. Some patients will need further Grommets inserted, with or without Adenoidectomy.