A certain amount of post-surgical drainage is normal after myringotomy. Yellow, clear fluid or mucus may drain from the ears for two to three days after surgery and it is not unusual for blood to be mixed in with the drainage. Cotton can be used to cover the ear canal and ensure that drainage does not seep out of the ear and onto pillow cases or clothing. It is important to change this cotton regularly, so that it stays dry.

Patients may also experience a slight sensation of soreness in the ears for the first several hours after the procedure. Prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen) may be used to control the discomfort.  

Following surgery, patients are likely to receive two different types of ear drops from their physician: Hydrocortisone and Vasocidin.

Hydrocortisone ear drops are used to prevent excess post-surgery drainage. Patients use them for the first three days after surgery, usually in dosages of three to four drops three times a day. If an infection occurs, patients may be directed by a physician to continue using the hydrocortisone drops until the first post-surgery checkup. Signs of infection include profuse, foul-smelling drainage.

Parents should contact their physician if the patient experiences severe ear pain or a skin rash. Patients may be directed to discontinue use of hydrocortisone drops and substitute with Vasocidin drops. Vasocidin drops can also be used if water accidentally enters the ear canal. It is possible a patient will not have to use Vasocidin drops at all following surgery.

Patients with tubes in their ears must take special precautions around water, including:

• Wearing earplugs when bathing (especially during hair washing) or swimming.
  
  
• Wearing a shower cap for several weeks after the procedure when showering.
  
  
• Not immersing the head in bodies of water where bacteria may be present, including lakes, ponds, rivers and bathtubs. Chlorinated pools are generally safe.

Patients should avoid cleaning their ears after the procedure. In addition, patients should not place anything in the ear without the approval of their physician, including ear drops and ear plugs.

Those who undergo myringotomy must see a healthcare provider for regular follow-up visits to ensure the tubes are working properly. Patients will also be given regular tests to see if the tubes have improved their hearing. The first checkup is likely to take place 10 to 14 days following the procedure, with regular checkups to follow periodically.

Tubes usually remain in the ears for six to 18 months before falling out into the ear canal as the hole closes and the eardrum grows. Sometimes the tubes migrate out of the eardrum prematurely and may need to be replaced. It is natural for some mild discomfort or bloody drainage to occur at this time. If the tubes do not fall out within two to three years, surgery to remove them may be required.

Once tubes are removed from the eardrum, patients must occasionally be checked to ensure that fluid buildup has not resumed and that ear infections have not returned. Some patients will need to take antibiotics to prevent or treat infections and other complications.