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What to Expect

  • Low grade fever (99-100 F) 
  • Thin, watery drainage from the ears (pink, clear or yellow in color or lightly blood-tinged) for several days 
  • Earache on the day of surgery 

The ear tubes should fall out after 6 months to 2 years. When the tube comes out, the hole in the eardrum usually heals within a few weeks. 

Diet

Your child may return to a regular diet, as tolerated. Follow general anesthesia guidelines. 

Pain Management

Give pain medicine as instructed or plain Tylenol for discomfort. 

Activity

Regular activity as tolerated. Follow the general anesthesia guidelines. Ask your surgeon if swimming or diving is allowed, and if earplugs should be used. 

Questions or Problems

Contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890 if any of the following conditions are present:

  • Severe pain not relieved by pain medicine 
  • Fever above 101 F
  • A bad smell or yellow-green fluid coming from the ears

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care providers. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor or others on your health care team.

If you are a Gillette patient with urgent questions or concerns, please contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890.

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