Ear Treatment Options
Getting the right treatment for ear problems can improve your health and quality of life by relieving symptoms such as pain, smelly discharge, itching and hearing loss. An experienced ENT specialist at Harley Street ENT can arrange and perform tests and procedures to address conditions affecting the ears. Your doctor will advise on the most suitable management options and explain these clearly so you know what to expect during your care.
Medical Treatment
Many ear conditions can be treated with oral or topical medicines, including tablets or ear drops. Pain relief stronger than over‑the‑counter paracetamol or ibuprofen may be prescribed for severe pain. In severe infections your ENT doctor may recommend a strong antibiotic by injection, which can be given on the same day you attend.
For outer ear problems, antibiotic or anti‑inflammatory drops and ointments are commonly used. Middle ear treatment may include antibiotic or decongestant tablets and steroid or decongestant nasal sprays. Inner ear treatment may involve anti‑inflammatory, vasodilator, antiviral or antibiotic tablets and topical medicine delivered by intratympanic infusions.
Outer Ear Lumps (Lesions)
Small cysts or lumps on the skin around or inside the outer ear can usually be removed under local anaesthetic in a minor procedure room. The lesion is typically sent for laboratory examination.
Microsuction
Microsuction removes wax, discharge, dead skin or other material blocking the ear canal. It uses a high‑powered microscope and a small suction device. This outpatient procedure can occasionally be uncomfortable and may cause slight temporary dizziness. Syringing is not suitable when an active infection is present or if the eardrum is thin or perforated.
Removal of Foreign Body
Foreign objects in the ear canal, such as cotton bud tips or small toys, can be removed using fine instruments or micro‑suction. Care is taken to avoid trauma to the ear canal or eardrum
Ear Wicks And Dressings
In severe infection where the ear canal is swollen, a small cellulose wick may be placed to allow antibiotic drops to access the affected area. Ear dressings after inpatient operations help limit swelling and keep the site clean
Myringotomy and Grommet Insertion
Myringotomy can relieve pressure or drain fluid from the middle ear. A small tube (grommet) may be inserted to ventilate the middle ear and improve hearing. In adults, this is usually under local anaesthetic; in children it often requires general anaesthetic.
Removal of Grommets
If grommets do not fall out naturally or cause blockage, they can be removed by micro‑suction or fine instruments. The small hole left behind usually heals over weeks.
Intratympanic Infusions
Medication can be delivered directly into the middle ear via intratympanic infusion under topical local anaesthetic. This may be used for sudden hearing loss, dizziness or other inner ear conditions.
Fat-plug Myringoplasty (Ear drum repair)
Persistent eardrum perforations may be repaired under local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting to reduce the risk of recurrent infections and improve hearing
Hearing Aids and other Ear Devices
Patients can be referred to the in‑house Harley Hearing Centre for independent advice on hearing aids and ear protection devices. After assessment, a suitable device is selected and programmed to match your hearing needs
Major middle ear, mastoid and skull base procedures
Complex surgical procedures such as stapedectomy, myringoplasty, mastoidectomy, endolymphatic sac drainage and cochlear implantation are undertaken by senior ear specialists with pre‑ and post‑operative care provided at Harley Street ENT.
The private health insurances we work with
Harley Street ENT is recognised by a wide range of leading UK and international private health insurers, ensuring easy access to our care for patients with approved cover.
Need help and advice? Speak to an advisor
To discuss your needs in confidence or arrange a consultation, please contact our advisory team, who will be happy to assist you.