How successful is surgery for otosclerosis?

Modern-day stapedectomy has been performed since 1956 with a success rate of approximately 90 percent. In rare cases (about one percent of surgeries), the procedure may worsen hearing. Otosclerosis affects both ears in eight out of ten patients.

How long does it take to recover from otosclerosis surgery?

Most people are able to go back to work or their normal routine in about 1 week. But if your job requires strenuous activity or heavy lifting, you may need to take up to 4 weeks off.

Is a stapedectomy major surgery?

Generally speaking, a major surgery is an operation when you need general anesthesia and breathing support because you can’t breathe on your own. Given those parameters, stapedectomy isn’t a major surgery.

What is the success rate of stapedectomy?

Stapedectomy is successful in restoring hearing in more than 90 percent of cases, and the gain in hearing is usually permanent. In a small number of cases, there is no improvement in hearing.

How painful is a stapedectomy?

Is the stapedectomy considered a painful operation? Generally, a stapedectomy is not a very painful operation. Medication may be needed for a few days after the surgery.

What are the side effects of stapedectomy surgery?

As for any surgery, a stapedectomy also has its share of risks and complications, including:

• Changes in taste.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
• Sensitivity to loud noise.
• Injury to the facial nerve.
• Infection.
• Failure of the device.
• Bleeding.

Are you put to sleep for stapedectomy?

You will be kept comfortable and safe by your anesthesia provider. The anesthesia may make you sleep. Or it may just numb the area being worked on. The surgery will take about 1 to 2 hours.

How do you wash your hair after stapedectomy?

You may shower and wash your hair 48 hours after surgery. Change your cotton ball after your shower and try to avoid spraying water directly into the ear. Do not worry if your dressing falls off early.

What happens if you sneeze after stapedectomy?

If sneezing occurs during the first week following surgery, please sneeze with the mouth open. If you hold your hand tightly over your mouth while sneezing, a sudden increase in pressure may occur in your ears and cause problems.