Surfer's Ear
by Douglas Hetzler, M.D., F.A.C.S.
”Surfers ear” or as it is medically known -- ”exostosis of the external auditory canal” -- is a condition of bone growth in the ear canal, caused by the cooling effect of cold water and wind. Cooling of the ear canal stimulates bone production by the cells that line the ear canal, and when extensive growth occurs, the ear canal narrows and can easily become blocked by trapped water and ear wax. The growth of bone in the ear canal takes place over many years and can be lessened by wearing earplugs and/or a neoprene hood when surfing. When the ear canal starts narrowing significantly, placing rubbing alcohol in the ear after surfing or water exposure may help keep the ear from plugging with water. If the ear remains plugged, it may be necessary to see an ear specialist to have the ear cleaned. If the bone growth is extensive, it may be necessary to have an operation to remove the bone growths from the ear canal.
Surgery for Surfer’s Ear
Dr. Hetzler’s technique for removing exostoses from the ear canal is performed in an operating room, with the patient under general anesthesia (totally asleep), and involves using small chisels (1mm and 2mm) via the ear canal to remove the bone growths. There is no need to make any incision behind the ear, and little if any use of a drill. This technique normally allows people to return to water sports in 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.
Post-Operative Care of the Ear
Until the skin of the ear canal is well-healed, it is advisable to keep the ear dry. After the ear is well-healed, wearing earplugs and/or a neoprene hood when surfing lessens the chance of the bone regrowing in the future.
For further information, please contact my office at (831) 458-6272.
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