What to expect from grommets surgery
If you’ve been told that you or your child needs grommets surgery, it’s likely you have a fair few questions, from what happens during the procedure to how long it will take to recover.
At nib, we consider ourselves your health partner. Here to help when it comes to understanding the complexities of navigating the hospital system as well as breaking down what might be involved in treatment and recovery. And while your healthcare provider is always the best person to provide you personalised information, we’ve answered some of the biggest questions you might have about what to expect from grommets surgery.
What are grommets?
A grommet is a tiny plastic tube that’s surgically inserted into the eardrum and used to treat a build-up of fluid in the middle ear. This condition is commonly referred to as glue ear.
What are grommets used for?
Grommets are used to treat glue ear or prevent recurring otitis media (middle ear infections).
When there is recurrent fluid in the ear, bacteria or viruses can cause infection. When the eustachian tube (the tube which connects the middle ear to the throat) is unable to drain this excess fluid, it thickens and becomes sticky over time.
This can lead to decreased hearing, an ear blockage, problems with balance, ongoing irritability or uncomfortable pressure.
Grommets may be recommended in instances where glue ear is causing significant discomfort or hearing loss or where ear infections are reoccurring.
How do grommets work?
When grommets are inserted during surgery, they help keep the eardrum open and allow fluid to drain into the ear canal.
What symptoms would lead you to needing grommets?
Some of the symptoms relating to earache which could indicate a need for grommets surgery include:
Loss of hearing
A reddening of the ear and constantly hearing a ringing sound (tinnitus)
Repeated ear infections
What happens during grommets surgery?
For children the grommets are inserted under a general anaesthetic, which makes it painless for them and easier to manage for the medical staff.
Once the patient is ready, a small incision is made in the eardrums and the grommet is positioned through the incision.
The surgery typically takes around 15 minutes, with time in the operating room up to 45 minutes. Recovery is around two hours.
What can be expected after grommets surgery?
After surgery, a hearing test will be performed to confirm hearing has been successfully restored. Mild pain can be expected, so speak to your health practitioner about the best way to treat it – this will likely be with over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol.
It can also be normal for a small amount of pus or blood to leak from the ear in the days following surgery. Contact your doctor if this continues for more than five days.
How long do grommets stay in for?
Grommets get pushed out of the ear as the eardrum grows and are designed to fall out. They usually last anywhere between six to 12 months. The eardrum will usually heal quickly, but if it doesn’t heal completely, it may need to be reinserted (since fluid and wax begins to build up).
Can you go swimming with grommets in?
Swimming is not advised within the first week after surgery and it’s recommended to use earplugs or a swimming cap when bathing, showering or swimming.
Are you or your child heading to hospital soon?
If you’re with nib, make sure you check out our Going to hospital page. This tool gives you information on health insurance, tips on how to reduce any out-of-pocket expenses and helpful questions to ask your specialist. To find out the details of your current policy, chat to someone about an upcoming hospital visit or get some guidance, please call us on 13 16 42.
Please note: The tips throughout this article serve as broad information and should not replace any advice you have been given by your medical practitioner.