The Ear Tube Process: What Parents Need to Know

If your child has been struggling with frequent ear infections, hearing difficulties, or speech delays, Dr. Timothy Queen at Advanced ENT & Allergy in Newport News, VA, is here to help. Ear tubes are a safe and effective solution for many children experiencing chronic ear issues, and Dr. Queen specializes in evaluating and treating these conditions with expert, compassionate care.

If your child has been recommended for ear tubes, you may have questions about what comes next. This guide will walk you through the process—from evaluation to recovery—so you can feel confident about your child’s treatment. 

What to Expect During an ENT Evaluation

Before recommending ear tubes, your care provider will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether the procedure is the right option for your child. This evaluation includes:

• Hearing Test – A specialized hearing assessment will determine if fluid buildup is affecting your child’s ability to hear. Even mild hearing loss can impact speech development and learning.
• Physical Examination – Using a magnified otoscope or an advanced microscope, he will examine your child’s ears for signs of fluid, swelling, or chronic infection.
• Medical History Review – A discussion of your child’s history of ear infections, previous treatments, and any concerns about speech or developmental delays will help determine the best course of action.

At Advanced ENT & Allergy, we prioritize personalized care, ensuring that every child receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. If ear tubes are recommended, we will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. 

The Ear Tube Procedure: What to Expect

For children who need ear tubes, the procedure is quick and performed on an outpatient basis, meaning your child can go home the same day. Here’s what to expect: 

1. Preparation

The procedure, called a myringotomy, is performed under general anesthesia to keep your child comfortable and still. Rest assured, at Advanced ENT & Allergy, Dr. Queen and his surgical team work with experienced pediatric anesthesiologists to ensure a smooth and safe experience. 

2. Tube Placement

Once your child is asleep, your ENT surgeon will:

• Make a tiny incision in the eardrum to allow trapped fluid to drain.
• Insert a small ventilation tube, which allows air to flow and prevents fluid from accumulating in the middle ear.

The entire procedure typically takes only 15 to 20 minutes. 

3. Recovery

Most children wake up within 30 minutes and are ready to go home shortly after. You may notice mild grogginess or fussiness, but discomfort is minimal and short-lived. You will be provided with clear post-procedure instructions to help your child recover smoothly. 

4. Follow-Up Care

The tubes typically remain in place for 6 to 12 months before falling out naturally.
Regular check-ups are necessary to ensure they are working properly and that your child’s hearing has improved.  Some children may need a follow-up hearing test to confirm full restoration of normal hearing.  At Advanced ENT & Allergy, Dr. Queen and his team are always available to address any concerns throughout the recovery process. 

The Benefits of Ear Tubes

Ear tubes can transform a child’s quality of life. The benefits include:

• Fewer ear infections – Many children experience a dramatic reduction in infections after receiving ear tubes.
• Improved hearing – Hearing often improves immediately, helping children engage better in conversations and learning.
• Better speech and language development – Without fluid-related hearing loss, children can develop speech and language skills more effectively.
• Reduced need for antibiotics – Since ear infections are less frequent and often drain on their own, children may avoid repeated antibiotic use. 

Are There Risks?

While ear tube placement is a safe and routine procedure, it is important to understand that potential, though rare, risks include:

• Minor scarring of the eardrum (usually does not impact hearing).
• Persistent perforation (in rare cases, the hole in the eardrum does not close on its own and may require an additional procedure).
• Post-procedure infections, though these are typically mild and easily treated with ear drops.

At Advanced ENT & Allergy, our goal is to minimize risks and maximize benefits, ensuring your child receives the best possible care.

Common Questions from Parents 

Will ear tubes hurt my child?

No. The procedure is done under anesthesia, so your child won’t feel anything. Most children have little to no pain afterward and return to normal activities quickly. 

Can my child swim or bathe with ear tubes?

In some cases, swimming and bathing are fine. However, Dr. Queen may recommend earplugs for swimming in untreated water (such as lakes, rivers, or hot tubs) to reduce the risk of infections. 

Can my child still get ear infections with tubes?

Ear infections can still happen, but they are usually less frequent, less painful, and easier to treat with antibiotic ear drops instead of oral antibiotics. 

At Advanced ENT & Allergy in Newport News, VA, Dr. Timothy Queen has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating pediatric ear conditions. His expertise, combined with a compassionate approach, ensures that children and their parents feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the process. 

If your child has been struggling with frequent ear infections or hearing issues, Dr. Queen and his team at Advanced ENT & Allergy are here to help. The first step is a consultation to determine if ear tubes are the right option for your child. You can reach out with any questions or schedule a consultation at https://www.entallergy1.com/