HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Suggest Treatment For Surfer's Ear

default
Posted on Thu, 6 Nov 2014
Question: Hi - I've been swimming and surfing in Australia frequently for about 10 years, and have developed something called "surfers ear". I've attached an otoscope image of this. I just wanted to get an opinion on how severe/advanced this looks at present, and whether it requires surgical intervention - or any prevention methods you recommend.
Thanks
doctor
Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Surfer's Ear, mild.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. The exostosis seen in the image is mild.

2. Indications for surgery include recurrent ear infections, hearing loss or trapped debris and cholesteatoma. Otherwise there is no need to operate.

3. Reduce exposure to cold water by using protective headgear or ear protection.

4. The success of surgery depends upon the intact-ness of the overlying ear canal skin after drilling out the exostosis and re-exposure to cold water. Recurrence rate is high, hence avoid surgery unless absolutely necessary (as per the above indications).

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any follow up queries, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Sumit Bhatti

Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 2686 Questions

Ask me a question
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask an Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
Suggest Treatment For Surfer's Ear

Brief Answer: Surfer's Ear, mild. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thank you for your query. 1. The exostosis seen in the image is mild. 2. Indications for surgery include recurrent ear infections, hearing loss or trapped debris and cholesteatoma. Otherwise there is no need to operate. 3. Reduce exposure to cold water by using protective headgear or ear protection. 4. The success of surgery depends upon the intact-ness of the overlying ear canal skin after drilling out the exostosis and re-exposure to cold water. Recurrence rate is high, hence avoid surgery unless absolutely necessary (as per the above indications). Hope I have answered your query. If you have any follow up queries, I will be available to answer them. Regards.