Comprehensive Services
Providing the highest standard of ENT care in Singapore and the region.
Accredited Specialists
Senior ENT surgeons with internationally-recognised fellowship training.
Convenient Locations
4 Clinics conveniently located in Orchard, Napier Road, Thomson, and Joo Chiat.
When Do I Need Myringotomy?
Myringotomy restores the middle ear function by treating middle ear infection.
Myringotomy is also typically recommended if you have:
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Frequent ear infections
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Ear bleeding
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Balance problems
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Hearing loss
What Is Myringotomy?
Myringotomy is a surgical procedure to create a hole in your eardrum (tympanic membrane) to allow fluid such as blood or pus to drain from your middle ear during middle ear infections. In many cases, a small tube (Grommet tube or myringotomy tube) is inserted into the hole to maintain drainage.
Possible Risks & Complications
As with any other surgical procedure, there are always side effects observed, including:
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Bleeding
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Infection
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Scarring
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Hearing loss
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Injury to ear structures other than the eardrum
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Ringing in the ear (Tinnitus)
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Frequent and abnormal ear drainage due to failure of the hole to heal
For Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents
Insurance & Medisave Partners
Certain ENT procedures are claimable under Medisave, and the exact amount would depend on the procedure. For more information, please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plan, Integrated Shield Plan, or Medisave.
What Happens During Myringotomy?
Before the surgery, you may be required to avoid eating or drinking for at least eight hours before the procedure or as advised by your doctor. You may also be asked to stop taking certain medications up to a week before the surgery to reduce surgical complications.
During the surgery, your doctor will administer a general anaesthetic before inserting an otoscope (a special lighted instrument with a magnifier) into your ear canals to examine your eardrum. They will then create a small incision in your eardrum and drain the fluid from your middle ear. In some cases, your doctor may also place a small tube to assist the drainage. No stitches will be used to close the incision as the incision will typically heal itself.
After the procedure is complete, you will be brought to a recovery room, where your vital signs will be observed while waiting for your anaesthetic to wear off slowly.
What To Expect Afterwards?
Following myringotomy, your doctor will likely advise you on some postoperative instructions on treatment and care during recovery, such as prescribing antibiotics and eardrops to treat any side effects. Additionally, you should also avoid using cotton swabs or water to clean your ear to prevent irritation and infection.
visit us today
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Our Main Clinic
Feel free to drop by our clinic and meet our specialist
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Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre 3 Mount Elizabeth #09-03, Singapore 228510
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Other Practice Locations
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
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3 Mount Elizabeth #09-05 Singapore 228510
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Parkway East Medical Centre
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319 Joo Chiat Place #03-02 Singapore 427989
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Mount Alvernia Medical Centre D
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820 Thomson Road #08-63 Singapore 574623
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is myringotomy painful?
Myringotomy is typically not painful as the procedure is performed under anaesthesia, which numbs the pain. However, you may still experience some mild pain or discomfort during and after the surgery, which can be resolved by taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does myringotomy last?
The operation will take about 15 to 20 minutes.
How long will I take to recover after myringotomy?
Most people fully recover in about 4 weeks. If you had ear tubes put in during the surgery, they should fall out on their own within 6 to 12 months.
