Exostoses Ear Surgery Melbourne
Exostoses are benign bony growths that develop in the ear canal, often caused by repeated exposure to cold water or wind. These growths can narrow the ear canal, leading to hearing changes, water trapping and recurrent ear infections. At ENT Specialist Melbourne, assessment focuses on evaluating the size and impact of exostoses and determining whether surgical removal is necessary. Symptoms may include reduced hearing, ear discomfort, frequent infections or difficulty with water activities.
When Exostoses Require Surgical Treatment
Surgical treatment is considered when exostoses are large enough to cause symptoms, interfere with hearing, or lead to recurrent ear infections. Patients experiencing persistent discomfort or repeated infections despite conservative care may benefit from specialist evaluation. A thorough ENT assessment determines the extent of growths, the associated risks, and the suitability for surgery.
Exostoses are bony overgrowths in the ear canal, often referred to as “surfer’s ear” due to their association with repeated exposure to cold water or wind. They are benign but can narrow the ear canal and trap water or debris, leading to infection or hearing difficulties.
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Hearing and Ear Canal Obstruction
Exostoses can partially block the ear canal, resulting in muffled hearing or recurrent fluid accumulation. Assessing the degree of obstruction helps determine whether surgery is needed.
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Recurrent Ear Infections
Trapped water and debris behind exostoses can lead to frequent infections, inflammation and discomfort. Surgical removal may be considered to prevent ongoing issues.
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Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Cold water exposure, swimming, surfing, or wind exposure are common contributors to exostoses development. Specialist evaluation considers these factors when deciding treatment options.
About Mr Eduard Pudel
Mr Eduard Pudel is a Melbourne-based ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon with FRACS qualification and extensive experience in managing exostoses and other complex ear conditions. Since establishing ENT Specialist Melbourne in 2008, he has assessed and treated patients with bony ear canal growths causing hearing issues or recurrent infections.
His clinical expertise includes diagnosis, surgical removal of exostoses, hearing preservation procedures, and management of chronic ear canal conditions. He also holds appointments at major Victorian hospitals including Monash Cancer Centre and the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre.
During consultations, he explains the impact of exostoses on hearing and infection risk, and outlines the benefits, risks and expected outcomes of surgery, ensuring patients understand their options clearly.
Maintaining Healthy Ears After Exostoses Surgery
Exostoses Surgery, Recovery and Expected Results
Exostoses surgery involves removing the bony growths from the ear canal while preserving ear canal structure and hearing. The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, typically as a day or short-stay procedure.
Recovery usually involves a short period of ear care and follow-up visits to monitor healing, prevent infection, and ensure hearing preservation. Most patients notice improvement in water drainage, reduced infections, and clearer hearing once recovery is complete.
Specialist ENT Care for Ear Canal Growths
If bony growths in the ear canal are affecting hearing, causing recurrent infections or impacting quality of life, specialist assessment can determine whether exostoses surgery is appropriate. ENT Specialist Melbourne provides comprehensive evaluation and management for patients of all ages. A GP referral is usually required.
Enquire today to discuss your symptoms and receive guidance on next steps for assessment and treatment.
FAQ
ENT Specialist Melbourne provides expert evaluation and surgical management. Most patients will require a GP referral prior to consultation. Enquire today to discuss your situation and next steps.