What Is Eardrum Repair (Tympanoplasty)?

Tympanoplasty is a middle ear surgical procedure aimed at the surgical repair of perforations or damage in the eardrum. This procedure is performed by ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialists after medical evaluation of ear problems caused by hearing loss and chronic inflammation.

The eardrum (tympanic membrane) is a thin structure that separates the outer ear from the middle ear and plays an important role in the healthy functioning of the hearing system. In cases of rupture or perforation of the membrane, complaints such as ear discharge, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a tendency to infection may occur. In such cases, tympanoplasty surgery may be considered as a treatment option.

Why Does the Eardrum Perforate?

The main factors that may cause a perforation or damage in the eardrum include:

• Chronic middle ear infection (otitis media)
• Traumatic causes (ear cleaning swab, impact, sudden pressure change)
• Severe infections or prolonged discharge
• Previous ear surgeries
• Membrane damage after loud noise, explosion, or pressure changes

These conditions may lead to permanent perforations in the eardrum and negatively affect hearing function. If left untreated, hearing loss may progress and infections may spread to adjacent structures.

How Is Tympanoplasty Surgery Performed?

Tympanoplasty is generally performed under general anesthesia. The goal is to close the perforation in the eardrum and, if necessary, to evaluate damaged ossicles. During surgery:

• A small incision is made behind the ear or inside the ear.
• The perforation in the eardrum is examined and the area is cleaned.
• A graft is prepared from the patient’s own tissue (such as temporalis fascia or fascia taken from behind the ear).
• The graft is placed over the membrane to achieve repair.
• If there is damage to the ossicles, repair or a prosthesis may be performed in the same session.

The surgical duration is on average 1–2 hours, and in some cases, a 1-night hospital stay may be recommended.

Who Is Tympanoplasty Suitable For?

• Patients with chronic otitis media who have persistent ear discharge
• Individuals who develop an eardrum perforation after trauma
• Those with an eardrum perforation accompanied by hearing loss
• Children or adults who experience recurrent middle ear infections
• Those who experience balance problems or tinnitus due to an eardrum perforation

The decision for surgery is made based on the ENT specialist’s examination and audiological evaluation.

What Is the Post-Operative Recovery Process Like?

• After the operation, most patients can return to daily life within 1–2 weeks.
• Avoiding contact with water and pressure is important.
• A feeling of fullness in the ear, temporary hearing changes, and mild pain may occur.
• The drops and medications prescribed during the recovery period should be used regularly.
• Full graft integration may take approximately 4–6 weeks on average.

Hearing Recovery With Tympanoplasty

Tympanoplasty aims to repair the eardrum and may improve hearing function. More noticeable recovery may be observed when the ossicles are intact. If the ossicles are also affected, additional procedures may be performed on these structures during surgery to support hearing function.