If the narrowing is caused by bony growths called exostoses, these can be surgically removed to restore the canal’s patency.

Exostoses can narrow the external ear canal and contribute to earwax accumulation, recurrent inflammation and conductive hearing loss.

Meatoplasty / removal of exostoses may be recommended for:

• significant narrowing of the external ear canal;
• recurrent inflammation of the external ear canal;
• recurrent earwax accumulation caused by a narrowed ear canal;
• hearing loss caused by mechanical obstruction of the ear canal;
• discomfort or other symptoms associated with narrowing of the ear canal.

How should you prepare for surgery?

To help surgery proceed safely:

• tell the doctor about allergies and regular medicines;
• tell the doctor about previous ear operations and conditions;
• if surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, follow the anaesthesiologist’s recommendations on eating and drinking;
• bring any previous examination results.

What happens during surgery?

Depending on the anatomy of the ear canal and the extent of the exostoses, the doctor:

• precisely assesses the narrowing of the external ear canal;
• surgically removes bony growths;
• widens the ear canal while preserving surrounding tissue;
• checks the condition of the ear canal and eardrum;
• provides protection for the operated area and supports healing where necessary.

Exostoses can be removed using different surgical approaches and instruments; the doctor chooses the method according to the anatomy and extent of surgery.

What should you expect after surgery?

Following meatoplasty / removal of exostoses, the patient:

• receives instructions on caring for the operated ear;
• may experience temporary discomfort or sensitivity in the ear canal;
• receives recommendations on protecting the ear during recovery;
• receives information about a postoperative follow-up appointment.