Grommets & Ventilation tubes Surgery
Grommets are small tubes inserted into the eardrum to drain fluid and restore normal ear function. This quick procedure helps improve hearing, reduce infections, and relieve pressure.
Grommets & Ventilation tubes Surgery
Grommets or ventilation tubes are placed when there has been longstanding middle ear fluid or glue. This surgery relieves the middle ear fluid therefore pressure and restores normal physiology.
Surgery in children is done under general anaesthesia and in adults under local anaesthesia. Surgery takes approximately 15 – 30 minutes and is a day surgical procedure. Children will be back to full activity the next day.
The main benefits include better hearing, fewer repeated courses of antibiotics, and relief from pressure and pain caused by ear infections.
Normal ear drum
Ear infection
Grommets in place & eardrum back to normal
Murali Mahadevan
Specialist ENT Surgeon
For all enquiries and appointments call (09) 925 4050
Suite A, Level 1, Kakariki Hospital
9 Marewa Road
Greenlane, Auckland 1051
Facsimile: (09) 925 4051
Only general information is provided on this web site and is not intended as advice or a consultation. Please read our full disclaimer.
FAQs
Grommets are used to treat persistent middle ear fluid (glue ear), frequent ear infections, or hearing loss due to fluid buildup.
Grommets usually stay in place for 6–12 months and typically fall out on their own as the eardrum heals.
The procedure is quick and usually painless. Children undergo general anesthesia, while adults may have local anesthesia.
Swimming is generally safe, but avoid deep diving. Your doctor may recommend earplugs to prevent water from entering the ears.
In most cases, the ear returns to normal. If issues persist, further treatment may be needed.
Grommet surgery is generally safe, but risks include temporary ear discharge, a small hole remaining in the eardrum after the grommet falls out, or recurrence of ear infections.
Contact Us
Get in touch to book an appointment or inquire about our ENT services. Our team is here to assist you with expert care and guidance.
Ph: +64 9 925 4050
Fax: +64 9 925 4051
Dr Murali Mahadevan FRACS
Otolaryngology Associates Ltd
Suite A, Level 1, Kakariki Hospital
9 Marewa Road
Greenlane, Auckland 1051
