Post-Operative Otitis

Key facts

• Post-operative otitis is inflammation of the ear canal or middle ear following surgery on the ear, mastoid, or nearby structures.
• The ear's warm, moist environment after packing or closure lets bacteria take hold quickly, causing pain, discharge, and swelling in the days after the procedure.
• Treatment combines a topical antibiotic, such as ciprofloxacin, with an anti-inflammatory like dexamethasone to clear the infection and reduce swelling.
• Worsening pain, spreading redness, or facial weakness need prompt review by the treating surgeon.

Recognising the signs

Typical signs include increasing ear pain in the days after a procedure, localised redness or swelling at the operative site, discharge that's purulent or watery, and reduced hearing on the affected side. Fever can accompany a more established infection.

How it is managed

Management targets the bacterial cause while controlling inflammation. Topical preparations containing ciprofloxacin treat the infection directly in the ear canal, while dexamethasone reduces swelling that can block drainage and slow healing. Keeping the ear dry, following wound-care instructions, and attending every follow-up appointment matter just as much as the medicines themselves.

Supporting recovery

Protecting the ear while it heals lowers the chance of infection taking hold. Keep the ear completely dry until the surgeon confirms it's safe to get wet, use a cotton ball coated in petroleum jelly or a purpose-made earplug when showering, and avoid swimming until cleared. Don't insert cotton buds or anything else into the ear canal. Attending every scheduled follow-up lets the surgeon check healing progress and remove any packing at the right time.

When to see a doctor

Worsening pain, redness spreading beyond the ear, or any sign of facial weakness needs review by the treating surgeon without delay.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.