I’m planning mastoidectomy in London. Can someone explain the steps and recovery?
What is the process for Mastoidectomy in London?
a month later
Mastoidectomy: Steps of the Procedure
- Preparation
You will receive general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and pain-free during the operation.
The surgical area (usually behind the ear) is cleaned and prepped.
- Surgical Steps
The surgeon makes a small incision behind (or sometimes above) your ear.
Using a surgical drill, the surgeon carefully opens the mastoid bone to access and remove infected or diseased tissue (such as from chronic infection or cholesteatoma).
The extent of bone removal depends on the disease’s spread; sometimes, additional ear structures are addressed if involved.
The area may be left open (mastoid cavity) or closed with tissue or bone, depending on the technique and your surgeon’s preference.
Packing (gauze) is often placed in the ear canal to support healing, and a bandage is applied over the ear.
- Duration
Surgery usually takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on complexity.
- Immediate Aftercare
You’ll be monitored in recovery until you’re fully awake.
Most patients can go home the same day or after an overnight stay.
Recovery After Mastoidectomy
First Few Days
Expect some discomfort, swelling, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient.
Rest and keep the head elevated. Avoid strenuous activity.
You may have a bandage over your ear for a day or two, and packing inside the ear for up to 2–3 weeks.
Wound Care
Keep the operated ear dry until your doctor says otherwise. Use cotton wool when showering.
Do not get water in the ear or swim until cleared by your surgeon.
If you sneeze, do so with your mouth open to avoid pressure in the ear.
Follow-Up
You’ll have an outpatient appointment within a few weeks to remove packing and check healing.
Stitches, if present, are usually removed after 7–14 days.
Regular follow-up is important, especially if a mastoid cavity was created, as it may need periodic cleaning.
Return to Activities
Most people return to work or school in 1–2 weeks, but full recovery takes 6–12 weeks.
Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for several weeks.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, hearing changes, dizziness, or facial nerve weakness.
Your surgeon will discuss these with you and provide guidance on what symptoms to watch for