Ear Tubes (Tympanostomy) in NYC – Adult & Pediatric ENT

Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) are a safe, effective solution for recurrent ear infections and persistent fluid buildup behind the eardrum. While commonly associated with children, many adults also suffer from chronic eustachian tube dysfunction that requires treatment. Dr. Tal Dagan offers comprehensive care for both adults and children, including convenient in-office procedures for adult patients.

Why Choose DaganMD for Ear Tubes?

In-Office Convenience for Adults: Avoid the hospital and general anesthesia. Dr. Dagan performs adult ear tube placement safely and comfortably in the office using topical anesthesia.
Expert Care: Board-certified ENT specialist with extensive experience in otologic procedures.
Immediate Relief: Restore hearing and relieve pressure often instantly after the procedure.

When Are Ear Tubes Recommended?

Ear tubes are tiny, hollow cylinders surgically inserted into the eardrum to create an airway that ventilates the middle ear. They are often recommended for:

Recurrent Ear Infections: 3+ infections in 6 months or 4+ in a year.
Fluid Buildup (Otitis Media with Effusion): Fluid that persists for more than 3 months, affecting hearing or balance.
Barotrauma: Difficulty equalizing ear pressure during flying or scuba diving.
Hearing Loss: Conductive hearing loss caused by fluid or eardrum retraction.

Post-Operative Care & Instructions

Standard follow-up:
An initial follow-up appointment will be scheduled 2-4 weeks after the procedure to check tube placement and function. Subsequent checks occur every 4-6 months until the tubes fall out naturally (usually 6-9 months).

Water Precautions

Keep ears dry. Use earplugs when swimming, bathing, or showering to prevent water from entering the middle ear, which can cause infection. Custom-molded earplugs or commercially available plugs (like Doc’s Proplugs) are recommended.

Showering: Permitted the day after surgery, but place a cotton ball coated in Vaseline in the outer ear to block water entry.

Managing Pain & Drainage

Pain: Mild to moderate ear pain is common for a few days. Use Extra-Strength Tylenol (Acetaminophen) as directed.
Drops: Use antibiotic ear drops as prescribed (typically 3 drops, 3 times a day for 3 days) to clear blood/crusts and prevent infection.
Drainage: Mild drainage (fluid or blood-tinged) is normal for up to a week. If drainage persists beyond a week or smells foul, contact our office.

Recovery & Activity

Activity: Resume normal walking and light activity the day after surgery. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or straining for 1 week.

Flying: Air travel is safe immediately after surgery. In fact, ear tubes eliminate the pain of ear pressure changes during flying!

When to Call the Office

Intense, unmanageable ear pain.
Persistent active bleeding (bright red) from the ear.
Fever over 101°F more than 24 hours after surgery.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or your child suffers from chronic ear issues, contact DaganMD to discuss if ear tubes are the right solution. Contact us online or call our office today.