Surgery to repair eardrum, what to expect

[Schulte]

DD2 (12) is booked in for surgery to have a hole in her eardrum patched. I've read all the information I could find so I know what to expect in theory, but if anyone's child has had this procedure and you can share any advice, I'd really appreciate it.

For example, were they in much pain or discomfort afterwards? For how long? Which activities were you told to avoid and for how long (DD is upset that she may not be allowed to compete on sports day 3 weeks post OP)? Exactly how careful were you with not getting the ear wet and for how long? And any other tips would be gratefully received!

TIA.

bump

We still had moulded ear plugs which DS used in the shower as usual. He was back to normal as soon as the anaesthetic wore off - I think we had to be there by 7.30, home by 3.30ish. Ate his weight in nuggets and ice cream, early night and then we went on holiday the next day. It was all a bit of nothing compared to grommets and adenoids. I think I might have calpoled him up on day 2.

Be prepared for her to be potentially quite sick afterwards. A general plus fiddling with inner ears can cause this.

My DD13 had this surgery last year. She felt fine within 24 hours but had a metallic taste in her mouth for a few months after which gradually went away.
The consultant said no sport for 6 weeks and no swimming for 6 months.
The worst thing for her was no hair washing until the pack in her ear was removed, we used dry shampoo so I would recommend you have some ready.
You will also need a supply of pain killers as you will be advised to keep them topped up for a few days.
Hope everything goes ok for your DD.

my dd had both ears done. Woke up and was really sick due to anesthetic and playing around with ear drum. She was tired for a few days and in a bit of pain bit paracetamol controlled it. We had to keep ear really dry so used dry shampoo for a few weeks. Can't remember about sports.

Not my kid- me. I had this surgery as a kid, also aged 12! They may have changed the way they do it now, though.
I’m 30 now so obviously a long time ago but I remember my head feeling very heavy when I came round, which freaked me out more than the pain. I stayed in hospital overnight and had morphine. I remember my mouth tasting of metal as well. I do remember not being able to get my head wet for a while afterwards.
I think she probably will miss her sports day, unfortunately, but all my friends wanted to see my stitches.
As an adult I only vaguely recall it and certainly put it down as “not too bad” of an experience. Hope that helps a little.

Thank you sooo much for all your insights, this is really helpful. I will make sure I have painkillers and dry shampoo in the house then! Also bought a very fetching shower cap. Your responses are really appreciated!

I also had this done when I was 14. Also was a bit sick and dizzy afterwards. Was told no sport for six weeks (not that i ever did), no flying and swimming for three months (this may have changed).

Couldn't wash my hair myself for several weeks so my mum washed it over the bath with a towel over my ear. wasn't great but i had long hair and couldn't leave it for weeks.

I had surgery two years ago (when i was 30) to rebuild the bones that had also been destroyed as a child. Similar issues with feeling quite dizzy afterwards. pain wise on both surgery was uncomfortable esp with the packing but not overally painful.

I arranged to have my hair washed twice a week by a hairdresser with a sink as was easier to do it that way without my ear getting wet (covered wither several layers of towels). If your DD has long hair you may want to do this in a couple of weeks.

Washing my hair normally weeks later was the best thing i have ever experienced!