1. Avoid any physical strain after surgery for one week. People with strenuous occupations may want to be off work longer than one week.

2. Mild pain or pressure in the ear is common. This should be relieved by the medications provided to you.

3. Remove the dressing and the cotton ball on the day after surgery. The ear may have some bloody drainage for a few days, so you may want to place a new cotton ball as needed.

4. Sneeze with your mouth open and avoid blowing your nose. This protects your middle ear from sudden pressure changes.

5. Water should be kept out of the ears. When bathing, a cotton ball covered in vaseline keeps the ear dry.

6. Dizziness or unsteadiness after surgery can sometimes occur. This usually improves in 2-3 days.

7. Hearing may be better immediately after surgery, but fluid and packing in the middle ear and ear canal may muffle your hearing.

If you have any questions or problems, please call: