Polyclinique Centre-Ville

Postoperative recommendations

Stapedectomy / Stapes surgery

  1. It is possible to feel pain, to relieve take Tylenol.
  2. Do not take any medication containing aspirin (Entrophen) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). These drugs increase the risk of bleeding.
  3. A bandage covers your ear. It must remain in place until your next appointment with your doctor. Avoid wetting or undoing it.
  4. Do not blow your nose for two months; just wipe or sponge your nostrils.
  5. Sneez with open mouth to avoid pressure changes inside the ear. Do not block the nose if you want to sneeze.
  6. Avoid lying on the operated side during the first days.
  7. It is important to get up slowly as dizziness might occur.
  8. Do not put earphones in the ear for the first month.
  9. A bath can be taken. Be careful not to wet the operated ear.
  10. 7 to 10 days after surgery, your doctor removes the bandage. You can subsequently take a shower provided to protect the ear from water for two months.
  11. Protect your ear from water by using a cotton ball soaked with a small amount of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) (like modeling clay) at bath time or during hair washing.
  12. Driving should be avoided as long as there is pain, dizziness, fatigue or taking an analgesic (pain reliever) that affects alertness.
  13. It is possible that you feel dizziness or vertigo for a few days after surgery: this is normal and temporary.
  14. Avoid to travel by plane for two months after surgery.
  15. Do not play wind instruments (flute, trumpet, etc …).

Be careful:

To prevent infection of your ear:

  1. Do not remove the cotton ball or bandage the first week;
  2. Avoid water in the ear;
  3. Avoid being in contact with people with colds;
  4. Remove the cotton ball or bandage if requested by your doctor.

Contact your doctor if:

  1. Persistent fever;
  2. Purulent discharge;
  3. Pain despite the use of analgesics;
  4. Dizziness or severe headache.

To avoid moving your prosthesis used for Stapedectomy:

  1. Avoid lifting heavy objects or do it with your mouth open;
  2. Avoid efforts to stool; take Colace if you are constipated;
  3. Avoid sudden movements of the head;
  4. Avoid exposing yourself to noise;
  5. It is recommended to bend your knees while keeping your head straight.

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Ear surgery
Nose & Sinus surgery
Head & Neck surgery
Aesthetic surgery