Grommets Post Operative Care

This page provides post-operative instructions for patients (and parents of children) who have had grommet insertion. Please read it carefully before the procedure.

Read the full grommets information page →

What to Expect

Mild discomfort in the ears is expected after surgery. Eating and drinking may resume normally. Antibiotic ear drops may be prescribed — use these as directed. Some children experience nausea and vomiting after a general anaesthetic; this is short-lived. Some dizziness is expected but should not persist beyond 24 hours. Occasional sharp shooting pains in the ear are normal in the first few days.

Discharge from the Ear

A small amount of blood-tinged discharge in the ear canal immediately after surgery is normal. If a cold develops while grommets are in place, a discharge may occur — this is usually treated effectively with antibiotic ear drops if it does not settle on its own.

Noises in the Ear

Pulsation, popping, clicking, and other sounds in the ear are normal after grommet insertion and settle over time.

Water Precautions

Water entering the ear can pass through the grommet and cause an infection. The following precautions apply:

• Use a shower cap or cotton wool with Vaseline in the bowl of the ear when showering to prevent soapy water from entering
• Swimming at the beach or outdoor pools is generally fine, but avoid diving towards the bottom of the pool
• Swimming in indoor pools, lakes, and rivers without ear plugs is not recommended
• If ear infections occur despite these measures, properly fitted ear plugs should be used before any further swimming

Wait seven days before swimming after grommet insertion. If there is any ear discharge, it must have fully cleared before water exposure begins.

Ear Drops for Discharge

If a discharging ear develops, ciprofloxacin drops are the preferred treatment. To instil drops: lie on the side with the affected ear facing up, place the drops in the canal, and pump them in gently by pressing on the tragus. Remain in position for ten minutes before treating the other ear if needed.

Follow-up

A post-operative appointment is scheduled two to three weeks after surgery, or as otherwise arranged. This appointment includes an audiological assessment to confirm hearing has improved following the procedure.