Ear Canal Widening

What is a meatoplasty/canaloplasty and why do I need this operation?

This procedure is carried out to expand your ear canals, preventing them from clogging with wax and other particles. A meatoplasty involves working with the soft tissue and cartilage of the ear. A canaloplasty focuses on making the bony canal inside the ear wider.

What are the benefits of having a meatoplasty/canaloplasty?

The advantages of undergoing these treatments include the expansion of your ear canal, which lessens the risk of blockages in the canal and makes it simpler to reach the mastoid cavity.

What are the risks, consequences and alternatives associated with having a meatoplasty/canaloplasty?

The majority of processes are simple, but just like any surgical procedure, there’s a slight risk of adverse reactions or issues like:

An alternative to this method is consistent careful ear cleaning. Additionally, one can choose to forego any treatment. The outcomes of choosing not to receive treatment include a accumulation of earwax and the risk of developing ear infections.

  • Pain
  • Infection of the wound site (where the stitches are) may occur. This may cause pain, inflammation and tightness of the area. Occasionally, a discharge and/or bleeding may occur from the stitch line. Please contact us for advice if this occurs.
  • Reaction to the ear dressing. Occasionally the ear may develop an allergic reaction to the dressing in your ear canal and the outer ear (pinna) may become red and swollen. Once the dressing has been removed, the allergic reaction should settle down.
  • There may be a change in the shape and appearance of your ear following the operation. This is due to swelling after the operation and will usually subside.
  • There is a risk that your hearing may deteriorate following the operation. This is usually due to the packing and temporary.
  • Once the pack is removed, the ear will still need time healing and may require further medication and/or packing.
  • If you are concerned about any of these risks, or have any further queries, please contact us.

An alternative to this method is consistent careful ear cleaning. Additionally, one can choose to forego any treatment. The outcomes of choosing not to receive treatment include a accumulation of earwax and the risk of developing ear infections.

Getting ready for the operation

Should you get an ear infection while you’re anticipating the surgery, please reach out to the office to arrange a visit with Dr. Jones. If you’ve been given ear drops to use, please keep applying them while you’re waiting for the surgery.

What sort of anaesthetic will I have?

Your procedure will be performed while you are under general anesthesia, which means you will be unconscious. During this time, the anesthesiologist will come to see you before your surgery and talk about the anesthesia with you.

What should I expect after the operation?

Upon your return to the ward, you might feel drowsy. You’ll receive oxygen via a facemask until you’re more alert. A nurse will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and any wounds frequently. Sometimes, anesthesia can cause nausea. Should you continue to feel nauseous, the nurse might administer an injection to alleviate the discomfort. A drip will be inserted into a vein in your arm or hand until you’re able to eat and drink on your own. You’ll be given a glass of water 1 – 2 hours following your admission to the ward.

Canalplasty is a procedure done to widen the narrowed ear canal

enlarge the ear canal and improve hearing