Otitis Media Symptoms
Otitis media refers to inflammation or infection of the middle ear and can affect people of all ages. Common otitis media symptoms include ear pain, fever, decreased hearing, fullness, and sometimes drainage. In children, signs may be subtle, such as irritability or trouble sleeping, rather than clear pain.
Severe or persistent otitis media symptoms warrant medical evaluation to determine if the infection is bacterial or viral. Untreated cases can lead to temporary hearing loss or, rarely, a spread to nearby structures. Recognizing otitis media symptoms helps guide appropriate treatment and reduces the risk of complications.
Surgery and Ear Care
Before any facial or head and neck procedure, doctors assess ear health since otitis media symptoms can influence anesthesia planning and postoperative comfort. It is common to postpone elective procedures if an ear infection is active to minimize anesthesia risks and postoperative complications. During recovery, maintaining middle ear health supports a smooth return to daily activities and overall recovery.
Sometimes ear conditions require surgical intervention such as myringotomy with tympanostomy tubes to drain fluid and prevent recurrences. These procedures are considered when otitis media symptoms persist or affect hearing and balance. Collaboration among plastic surgeons, ENT specialists, and anesthesiologists improves safety when ear health is a factor.
Preop Ear Check
Before elective surgery, a comprehensive ear review helps identify active infections that could complicate anesthesia. Your clinician may perform ear examination, tympanometry, and audiometry to assess ear function. Postponing nonurgent procedures until otitis media symptoms resolve can reduce the risk of wound healing delays and fever-related risks.
If an infection is suspected, treatment may begin with antibiotics or observation depending on the cause. Clear signs of improvement usually appear within a few days, guiding timing of the planned procedure. Never ignore persistent ear pain or new drainage during the preop window.
Prevention and Recovery
Preventing recurrence centers on minimizing upper respiratory infections, managing allergies, and keeping ears dry after swimming. Practices such as nasal saline rinses and avoiding smoke exposure support ear health alongside routine vaccines. Proper hygiene and prompt treatment of colds reduce the chance that otitis media symptoms flare again.
After surgery, follow your clinician's care plan, monitor for fever or new ear discharge, and report any hearing changes. Seek urgent care if you develop severe ear pain, high fever, or swelling behind the ear. Regular follow-ups verify that ear healing aligns with overall recovery and that no new infections have developed. Long term, maintaining ear health contributes to stable hearing and balanced recovery from cosmetic procedures.