Perforated Eardrum Surgeons in Edina, MN
What Causes an Eardrum Perforation?
A perforated eardrum occurs when a small tear or hole develops in the thin membrane that separates the ear canal from the middle ear. This membrane, called the tympanic membrane, plays an important role in hearing and helps protect the middle ear from outside bacteria and debris.
Perforations can occur for a variety of reasons. Ear infections are one of the most common causes. Pressure from fluid buildup behind the eardrum can sometimes rupture the membrane. Physical trauma to the ear or sudden changes in pressure (like what you feel when you’re on a plane as it’s landing) can also lead to a perforation.
Although the term may sound alarming, many perforated eardrums heal naturally. An evaluation with an ENT specialist helps determine the size of the tear and whether additional treatment may be needed.
Will a Perforated Eardrum Disrupt My Hearing?
A perforated eardrum can affect hearing, but the degree of hearing change depends on the size and location of the tear. Some patients notice only mild muffling, while others may experience more noticeable hearing loss in the affected ear.
In many cases, hearing improves as the eardrum heals. If the perforation doesn’t close on its own or hearing isn’t returning to normal, an ENT specialist can evaluate the ear and determine if further treatment is needed.
How Do You Treat a Perforated Eardrum?
Treatment for a perforated eardrum depends on how the injury occurred, the size of the perforation and whether infection or hearing loss is present. A trained ENT surgeon will examine the ear carefully and may perform hearing tests to understand how the perforated eardrum is affecting ear function.
Potential treatment options include:
- Monitoring the ear while the eardrum heals naturally
- Treating infection or inflammation that may interfere with healing
- Surgical repair of the membrane through a procedure called tympanoplasty
A surgeon performs tympanoplasty when the perforated eardrum refuses to close on its own or when hearing problems persist. The procedure repairs the damaged membrane and helps restore the ear’s protective barrier and ability to transmit sound.
During your initial consultation, your ENT specialist will help determine which treatment aligns best with your symptoms and preferred care plan.
Meet the Team
Dr. Geoffrey Getnick
Board certified in Otolaryngology, Dr. Getnick received his bachelor’s degree from Princeton University. He was named “Best Doctor” in Minnesota Monthly.
Dr. Justin Wudel
A dual board-certified Otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Wudel has expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face.
Dr. Tyler Mingo
Dr. Mingo has expertise in the full breadth of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery with a special interest in Laryngology, the medical and surgical treatment of speech and swallow disorders.
