Ear Tubes: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Ear Tubes?
An ear, nose, and throat doctor, also called an otolaryngologist, usually places ear tubes. Before the surgery, your child's ear care provider asks for a medical history, does a physical exam, and recommends a hearing test. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Ear tube insertion means placing small tubes through the eardrums. The eardrum is the thin layer of tissue that separates the outer and middle ear. The tube lets air flow in, so the pressure is the same on both sides of the eardrum. Trapped fluid can also flow out of the middle ear. This prevents hearing loss and reduces the risk of ear infections. Most of the information here is about children, but it could also apply to adults with similar symptoms or problems.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Fluid that builds up behind the eardrum may cause some hearing loss. Ear tubes may be placed when the fluid does not go away after 3 months and both ears are affected. They may also be placed when the fluid does not go away after 6 months and it is only in one ear. Ear infections that do not go away with treatment or that keep coming back are also reasons for ear tubes. If infections keep coming back and antibiotics are not helping, many doctors will recommend ear tubes. People of any age may also get ear tubes for a severe ear infection that spreads to nearby bones or the brain, or that damages nearby nerves.
How to prepare
- A hearing test is also recommended before the procedure.
- Tell the provider what medicines your child takes, including medicines, herbs, and vitamins you bought without a prescription.
- Tell the provider about any allergies to medicines, latex, tape, or skin cleaner.
- Your child may be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the surgery.
- If your child is ill, the surgery may be delayed.
What happens during it
Your child is asleep and pain-free under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small cut in the eardrum. Any fluid that has collected behind the eardrum is removed with suction through this cut. Then a small tube is placed through the cut in the eardrum.
Recovery
Children most often stay in the recovery room for a short time and leave the hospital the same day. The surgeon may prescribe ear drops or antibiotics for a few days after the surgery. The surgeon may also ask you to keep the ears dry for a specific period of time. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if your child has trouble or abnormal breathing, bluish or grey skin, or loses consciousness.
Risks and side effects
Risks of ear tube insertion include drainage from the ear, a hole in the eardrum that does not heal after the tube falls out, and hearing loss that lasts or is permanent. The risks of any anesthesia are breathing problems and reactions to medicines. The risks of any surgery are bleeding and infection.
Who performs it
An ear, nose, and throat surgeon, also called an otolaryngologist, usually does the surgery.
Common questions
How long do ear tubes stay in?
The most commonly used tubes stay in place for six to nine months. If the tubes do not fall out on their own, an ear specialist may have to remove them.
Do ear tubes help with ear infections and hearing?
Most parents report that their children have fewer ear infections, recover more quickly from them, and have better hearing after ear tubes. If ear infections return after the tubes fall out, another set of ear tubes can be inserted.
Can my child swim or get the ears wet after ear tubes?
The surgeon may ask you to keep the ears dry for a specific period of time after surgery. Ask the surgeon whether your child can swim or get the ears wet while the tubes are in.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Ear tube insertion
- MedlinePlus - Ear tube surgery - what to ask your doctor
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders - Ear Infections in Children
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
