Ear Tubes SoCal’s Otolaryngology Experts
Frequent ear infections and persistent fluid buildup in the middle ear can lead to hearing problems, ear pain, and even speech development delays, especially in children. If your child has had three or more ear infections within six months or experiences chronic fluid retention in the middle ear space, ear tube surgery may be the best solution to restore comfort and prevent further complications.
At Southern California Center for Ear, Nose, Throat, and Allergy (SoCal ENT), our board-certified ENT specialists provide expert ear tube placement using the most advanced, minimally invasive techniques. We offer personalized care to ensure that both children and adults receive the best possible treatment for chronic ear infections, hearing difficulties, middle ear fluid retention, and chronic sinusitis. If you or your child are experiencing repeated ear infections or fluid buildup, schedule a consultation with our leading ear, nose, and throat specialists to discuss whether ear tube insertion is the right option.
Ear tubes, also called tympanostomy tubes, are tiny, hollow ventilation tubes that are surgically placed in the eardrum to help drain fluid and allow better airflow into the middle ear. This procedure is commonly recommended for children who experience frequent middle ear infections (otitis media) or chronic fluid buildup that can lead to hearing loss or speech development issues.
Ear tube surgery is one of the most common childhood surgeries, but adults with chronic ear infections or eustachian tube dysfunction can also benefit. The tubes work by equalizing air pressure in the middle ear, reducing fluid retention, and preventing infection recurrence.
At SoCal ENT, we are proud to offer the Hummingbird® ear tube procedure, a gentle, fast, and minimally invasive alternative to traditional ear tube surgery.
This FDA-approved technology allows for ear tube placement in-office without the need for general anesthesia, fasting, or a lengthy recovery period. Designed specifically for young children suffering from chronic ear infections or persistent fluid buildup, the Hummingbird device enables a quick, one-step procedure that takes just a few minutes. Parents can remain with their child during the process, providing comfort and reassurance while our expert ENT specialists ensure precise, effective placement.
With a 98% success rate and a smoother recovery compared to traditional surgical methods, the Hummingbird procedure is transforming how we treat frequent middle ear infections safely and efficiently.
The ear tube placement procedure is a brief, minimally invasive outpatient surgery designed to provide immediate relief from chronic ear infections and fluid buildup.
During the procedure, the ENT surgeon makes a small incision in the eardrums (myringotomy) to drain fluid from the middle ear, relieving pressure and improving hearing. Next, they will insert ear tubes into the opening of each ear, allowing air to circulate and preventing future fluid buildup. The entire process takes just 10–15 minutes under general anesthesia, ensuring that children remain completely comfortable and unaware during the procedure. After a short stay in the recovery room, most patients can return home the same day, with minimal discomfort and immediate improvement in ear health and hearing.
Ear tubes are used to treat and prevent the following conditions:
Your child’s physician or ENT specialist may recommend ear tubes if:
If your child experiences chronic ear pain, multiple ear infections, or hearing difficulties, one of our dedicated ear, nose, and throat surgeons can help determine if ear tube placement is the best course of action.
Since the ear tube procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery, children and adults can usually return home the same day. Some mild ear drainage may occur in the first few days, but this is normal and can be managed with antibiotic ear drops if prescribed.
Most children can resume normal activities, including school and play, within 24 hours, while adults can return to work the next day. Swimming and water activities may require ear plugs to prevent water from entering the ear, depending on your doctor's recommendations.
Follow-up visits with your ear, nose, and throat specialist ensure that the tubes are functioning properly and help monitor healing and hearing improvement. Since ear tubes naturally fall out over time, no additional surgery is usually required.
Ear tube surgery provides immediate relief from ear infections, fluid buildup, and hearing problems. Most children experience:
The tubes naturally fall out within 6–12 months as the eardrum heals. If the tubes fall out too soon or chronic infections persist, you or your child’s surgeon may recommend placing new tubes for extended support.
Yes, general anesthesia is typically used to keep the child still and comfortable during the quick, outpatient procedure. Hummingbird ear tubes provide a less invasive approach not requiring general anesthesia.
Most small tubes remain in place for 6–12 months before naturally falling out.
If the tubes fall out too soon, a follow-up appointment with the ENT specialist will determine if they need to be reinserted.
Most children can resume normal activities, including swimming, but some may need ear plugs to prevent water from entering the middle ear.
Ear tubes greatly reduce the risk of future ear infections, but occasional infections may still occur. Antibiotic ear drops can help if needed.
Most insurance plans cover ear tube insertion if medically necessary. Our team can help verify your benefits.
