Ear Tubes

Ear tubes can help treat a build-up of fluid in the middle ear. By inserting the small cylindrical tube, air can begin to flow into the middle ear and prevent recurrent build-up of fluid.

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How Ear Tubes are Inserted

The ear tube insertion procedure is often performed under general anesthesia for children, but can be performed in the office for adults. It usually takes between 5-15 minutes to complete. A tiny hole will be created in the eardrum using a scalpel. Any current fluid that is found there will be suctioned out. The tube will then be inserted inside the hole. Most patients can return to work or school the next day. Over time, the tubes will fall out on their own and the holes that were created will naturally heal. After this, your provider will determine if a repeat treatment is necessary.

About Ear Tubes

Ear tubes can help treat a build-up of fluid in the middle ear. By inserting the small cylindrical piece, air can begin to flow into the ear and treat a build-up of fluid.

Ear tubes can be used to treat:

A build-up of fluids
Middle ear infections
Negative pressure in the middle ear
Other types of chronic ear infections

They can also help children who have regular fluid build-up or chronic ear infections. Ear tubes will usually fall out after 4-18 months, and the hole will close on its own.

Ear Tubes for Developmental Issues

In some cases, a build-up of fluid in the middle ear can cause children to have hearing problems and can create developmental delays in language and learning. Ear tubes can also be used to help correct this problem.

With 18 convenient locations across the greater Houston & San Antonio areas, we’re never far away.

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About Texas ENT Specialists

Texas ENT Specialists offers tailored treatments and surgery for a wide selection of ear, nose, and throat conditions. Since 1997, we have been helping our patients in Houston achieve long-term relief. We have 15 office locations across Texas to make it as convenient as possible for you to visit our locations.

Personalized Treatment

Each appointment and treatment is customized to fit your needs, as we understand treatments should be tailored to the patients, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Top-Rated Physician Network

All of our offices are staffed with a network of experienced providers who have been fellowship-trained and are experts in their area of ENT care.

Centers of Excellence

Our locations are designed to offer our patients a seamless experience from the moment they schedule their appointment to the moment we’re saying goodbye.

Continuity of Care

Our providers always help patients with the goal of achieving long-lasting relief, never looking for only short-term solutions to the problem.

Benefits of Ear Tubes

Ear tubes can allow fluid to easily drain from the ear canal, and help stop repeated ear infections or inflammation.
The procedure is usually performed in under 30 minutes, allowing patients to easily fit it into their busy schedule.

Ear tubes provide instant relief for patients
The holes will close on their own
The tubes will also fall out on their own
Ear tubes can also help children who may be suffering from hearing loss or development delays due to a fluid build-up.

Who is a Candidate for Ear Tubes?

Candidates for ear tubes are individuals who have chronic ear problems such as repeated fluid build-up, chronic infections, or inflammation. Ear tubes can also help children with these conditions whose hearing may be impacted.

Your Ear Tubes Experience

When you arrive for your appointment, the process will begin with general anesthesia to help keep you relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.

Your surgeon will begin by making a small incision within the eardrum to insert the tube. This is done with the use of a scalpel or a laser. Before the tube is inserted, any fluid is drained from the ears.

After the tube has been placed, you’ll begin to immediately feel some relief and will be able to recover at home. After several months, the tubes will fall out on their own and the hole will close.

Ear Tube FAQ's

Are ear tubes safe for children?

Yes, ear tubes can help children with chronic ear conditions.

Will I need to return to have the tubes removed?

No. The tubes will fall out naturally after several months, although you may require follow-up visits while the tubes are still in place.