After your surgery, your doctor will fill your ear with cotton packing. This packing should remain in your ear for five to seven days after your surgery. A bandage is usually placed over your entire ear to protect it. People who undergo an eardrum repair procedure are typically released from the hospital immediately.
You may be given ear drops after the surgery. To apply them, gently remove the packing and put the drops in your ear. Replace the packing and don’t put anything else in your ear.
Try to prevent water from entering your ear during recovery. Avoid swimming and wear a shower cap to keep water out when you bathe. Do not “pop” your ears or blow your nose. If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open so that pressure does not build up in your ears.
Avoid crowded places and people who may be sick. If you catch a cold after surgery, it could increase your risk of contracting an ear infection.
After surgery, you may feel shooting pain in your ear or you may feel as though your ear is filled with liquid. You may also hear popping, clicking, or other sounds in your ear. These symptoms are usually mild and improve after a few days.
