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Why does both my ears look different after T tube insertion?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had to correct Eustachian tube dysfunction. Ears pop after yawing, drinking, and swallowing. Then I have to pop my ears by pinching my nose and ears throughout the day. I just had my third operation on my ears. This time I have had T tubes inserted. I have made the mistake of looking with a little camera (not intrusive at all), but both ears look so different. They have prescribed me antibiotic ear drops. Please help, doctor. Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, the two pictures are different (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). I think that the first picture shows that the tube is not fixed well. It would help if you revisited your surgeon. Continue your medical treatment and keep your hands away from your ears till the next medical visit. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for your response. I am so frustrated with this now. Should I wait for two more months for the follow-up appointment? Will it not last for long if it looks like this now? Why have they fitted it like that? Indeed it has not been forced out within a matter of hours. Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It happens in many cases. You are not a rare case, and it is common. T tubes last for about three years, but your T tube may be expelled within weeks because it is not fitted well. Therefore, I recommend an earlier visit to your surgeon within a week, not after two months. Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At June 3, 2022
Reviewed AtJanuary 11, 2024

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