Canalplasty a minimally invasive procedure used to widen your ear canal, the pathway from the outside of your ear to your ear drum. Reshaping and reconstructing the ear canal enhances drainage and reduces blockages.
For those experiencing muffled hearing due to a narrowed ear canal or structural abnormalities, canalplasty may be an option. Typically performed by an otologist, under general anesthesia, this outpatient procedure can significantly improve hearing by alleviating sound blockage.
What conditions does Canalplasty treat?
Canalplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses a range of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions. It is commonly used to treat:
- Ear infections
- Hearing loss due to a narrow ear canal
- Narrowed or blocked ear canals
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
- Congenital abnormalities present at birth
- Chronic ear drainage or excessive wax buildup
- Ear canal stenosis
- Tumors in the ear canal
- Scar tissue resulting from ear trauma
- Chronic swelling of the ear canal
- Cholesteatoma
Beyond medical needs, Canalplasty may enhance appearance. It is frequently used to reshape the outer ear and correct deformities caused by trauma or congenital malformations.
Is canalplasty right for me?
Eligible candidates for canalplasty include:
- Individuals experiencing persistent hearing loss due to fluid accumulation in the middle ear.
- People with recurring ear infections or otitis media with effusion.
- Those who haven’t responded well to antibiotics or steroid medications.
- Individuals with ongoing hearing loss caused by structural issues in the ear canal.
What are the benefits of canalplasty surgery?
The advantages of minimally invasive Canalplasty surgery include a shorter recovery time, minimal risk of complications, and enhanced quality of life. Canalplasty tackles common ear symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, recurring effusions, and middle ear pressure. In addition, canalplasty may even restore your sense of balance. This procedure has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve ear hygiene, decreasing the risk of infection and irritation.