Ear and hearing
Perforated eardrum
A perforated eardrum is a small hole or tear in the thin membrane inside the ear. It may follow an infection, injury or pressure change. Many new tears heal on their own.
ENT care in Bandra, MumbaiAbout Dr Adip Shetty
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What you may notice
Pain may be followed by fluid or blood from the ear. Hearing can sound muffled, and ringing may occur. An ear examination confirms whether the eardrum has a hole.
How it is checked
The doctor checks the size and position of the hole, looks for infection and may arrange a hearing test. Ongoing smelly discharge needs a careful assessment for other ear disease.
Helping the ear heal
Keep the ear dry and avoid swimming. Do not insert cotton buds or use ear drops unless a clinician confirms they are suitable. Avoid forceful nose blowing. A new tear often closes within about two months, but follow-up is needed to check healing.
When is repair needed?
An infection may need treatment. If the hole stays open, causes repeated discharge or affects hearing, eardrum repair may be discussed. The operation uses a patch of tissue to help close the hole.
Endoscopic eardrum repair: scarless surgery
Dr Adip Shetty specialises in endoscopic ear surgery, a modern keyhole approach to closing a perforated eardrum. The entire repair is performed through the natural ear canal using a high-definition endoscope, so there is no cut behind or in front of the ear and no visible scar.
- No incision behind the ear — the repair is done entirely through the ear canal.
- A magnified, high-definition view of the eardrum allows precise, delicate repair.
- Less post-operative discomfort than traditional open surgery.
- Most patients go home the same day, with a quicker return to normal activity.
Not every ear is suited to this approach — the size and position of the perforation and the shape of the ear canal matter. At your consultation, Dr Shetty will examine your ear and let you know whether endoscopic repair is a good option for you.
When to seek help sooner
Sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness or facial weakness after an injury needs urgent assessment. Increasing pain, fever or discharge should also be checked promptly.
A note on your care
“With a hole in the eardrum, the questions are often practical: can I swim, can I travel, will I hear better? Bring those questions to your appointment.”
A little more clarity
Common questions
Can I fly with a perforated eardrum?
A simple perforation is usually compatible with flying, but an active infection or recent surgery changes the advice. Check with your doctor before travel.
Will my hearing return?
It may improve as the eardrum heals. A follow-up hearing test checks whether another part of the ear is also affected.
Can I use ordinary ear drops?
Only if a clinician confirms they are safe for an open eardrum. Tell the doctor or pharmacist about the perforation before using drops.
When can I swim again?
Wait until an examination confirms healing or your surgeon gives specific clearance. Water entering through the hole can trigger infection.
Sources and review
Updated . General information to help you prepare for a consultation.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Adip Shetty on .