Endoscopic ear surgery in Lima, Peru

What it can treat

• Eardrum perforation (tympanoplasty).
• Chronic ear infections that need surgery.
• Cholesteatoma, especially when it is limited to the middle ear.
• Reconstruction of the small bones of hearing.

Endoscope or microscope?

The endoscope shows angles of the middle ear that the microscope cannot see in a straight line, and often allows surgery through the ear canal.

It is not suitable for every case. If the disease extends into the mastoid bone, or the ear canal is very narrow, the microscope or a combination of both may be needed. The technique is chosen for each ear.

Recovery and travel

It is usually done under general anesthesia, and many patients go home the same day. The ear often feels blocked for some weeks while it heals.

You will need to keep the ear dry and avoid flying and strenuous exercise for the time your surgeon indicates. Plan your stay in Lima for the follow-up visits.

Risks

Risks include infection, the eardrum not healing, taste changes, tinnitus, dizziness, hearing loss and, rarely, facial nerve injury. Cholesteatoma can come back, so follow-up continues for years.