Mastoidectomy Complications: Should I Be Worried?Mastoidectomy
2 months ago
I have been reading online that mastoidectomy can sometimes cause side effects like dizziness, ringing in the ears, or even weakness of the face due to nerve damage. This information has scared me a lot. How common are these complications in reality, and do they usually go away during recovery or can they last permanently?
Answers (1)
The internet often highlights the rarest risks, which can understandably make you more anxious than necessary. Mastoidectomy is performed very close to delicate structures such as the inner ear and the facial nerve, so side effects like dizziness, ringing in the ears, or even temporary weakness of the face are possible. However, these complications are uncommon when the surgery is done by an experienced ENT surgeon. Dizziness or ringing usually settles within a few weeks as the ear heals. Facial weakness is very rare and, if it happens, is most often temporary. Permanent complications are extremely uncommon and are usually associated with very advanced disease or prior damage from long-standing infections. Overall, the surgery is considered safe, and most patients recover without any lasting side effects, especially if proper post-operative care and follow-ups are maintained.
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