TreatmentEar and hearing
Stapes surgery
Stapes surgery can improve hearing when otosclerosis has fixed one of the tiny hearing bones. A small replacement part carries sound towards the inner ear. A hearing aid remains an alternative.
ENT care in Bandra, MumbaiAbout Dr Adip Shetty
- For
- Selected ears with otosclerosis.
- Alternative
- A well-fitted hearing aid avoids surgical risk.
- Recovery
- Allow time for dizziness to settle and hearing to be checked.
Before choosing surgery
Hearing tests establish how much loss comes from the fixed bone and how well the inner ear works. The condition of both ears matters. Discuss what a hearing aid could achieve as well as the likely benefit of surgery.
What the operation involves
Usually through the ear canal, the surgeon makes an opening in the fixed stapes and places a tiny replacement part. The operation may be called stapedotomy or stapedectomy, depending on the technique.
What recovery is like
Some dizziness, a blocked feeling and a temporary taste change can occur. Many people need around two to three weeks away from work. Keep the ear dry, avoid straining and wait for clearance to fly or swim. Hearing is tested after healing.
The main risks
The important risk is worse hearing, including a small risk of complete hearing loss in the operated ear. Persistent dizziness, tinnitus, taste changes, infection and rare facial weakness are also possible. Sudden worsening of hearing or severe dizziness after surgery needs urgent contact with the surgical team.
A note on your care
“Take time to compare the hearing-aid and surgical options. The right conversation includes the improvement we hope for, the risks and what happens if hearing is still difficult.”
A little more clarity
Common questions
General answers, so you can arrive with a clearer sense of what to ask.
Why choose a hearing aid instead?
It can improve hearing without the risks of an operation. Surgery and hearing aids are both reasonable options for suitable patients.
Can both ears be operated on together?
The ears are generally treated separately so recovery and hearing in the first ear can be assessed before considering the second.
Will it cure tinnitus?
Tinnitus may improve, remain or occasionally worsen. The operation is mainly intended to improve sound transmission.
When will I know the result?
Early swelling and packing can affect hearing. Your surgeon will arrange a hearing test once the ear has had time to heal.
Sources and review
Updated . General information to help you prepare for a consultation. Information on this website does not replace a consultation.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Adip Shetty on .
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