TympanoplastyThe tympanic membrane, or ear drum, is made of tissue similar to skin. In most cases, perforations of the ear drum by some type of trauma, such as a puncture by a cotton tipped applicator, or a slap injury, will heal spontaneously in much the same way a cut on an arm would heal.
When a tympanic membrane perforation persists, the middle ear is unprotected and is vulnerable to infection. When a perforation is present, the ear canal must be kept dry. Repair of the tympanic membrane perforation reinstates the protective barrier to the middle ear and in some cases can also improve hearing.
SeptoplastySeptoplasty is an operation that corrects any defects or deformities of the nasal septum, which is the wall between the two nostrils. The goal of the surgery is to straighten out the nasal septum or to relieve obstructions or other problems related to deviation of the septum. An incision is made internally on one side of the nasal septum. Afterwards, the mucous membrane is elevated away from the cartilage and bone, obstructive parts are removed, and plastic surgery is performed as necessary. Then the mucous membrane is returned to its original position. The tissues covering the septum are maintained in the midline by either sutures or packing.
Turbinate Reduction SurgeryEnlarged inferior turbinates are often the cause of chronic nasal congestion. Even after the underlying problem is addressed, such as chronic infection or allergy, the enlargement may remain. There are varying ways to reduce the size of the turbinate, from radiofrequency ablation done in the office under local anesthesia (no downtime for the patient), to submucous resection or even partial turbinectomy done in the operating room as an outpatient.
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Endoscopic sinus surgery is used to increase the amount of air flowing through the sinuses and allow mucus to drain properly out of the nose. The procedure can relieve nasal blockages, improve breathing, improve the sense of smell and taste and relieve facial pain. The endoscope, which utilizes fiberoptic technology, allows doctors to see inside the sinuses without cutting the face and makes it possible to see parts of the sinuses that were formerly difficult to reach.
TonsillectomyThe tonsil glands serve as agents against infections. However, in some people, particularly in children who have large tonsils, these glands perform less efficiently and can cause frequent throat and ear infections or may obstruct breathing. In these cases, surgery to remove the tonsils is of benefit.
While the patient is under general anesthesia, the ENT surgeon holds the mouth open to expose the tonsils. The tonsils are then cut away with an instrument or a cautery (electric wire), that divides the tissue and stops bleeding. The tonsil area heals over 10-14 days.
Sleep Apnea SurgeryFor mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea, treatment often consists of using methods to avoid sleeping on one's back. For people with significant nasal congestion, a decongestant therapy may be prescribed. Patients with obstructive and central apnea should avoid central nervous system depressants such as alcoholic beverages, sedatives and narcotics. Weight loss and diet control are encouraged for overweight patients.
More serious cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea can be associated with long intervals where an individual does not take a breath. This results in a lower oxygen level in the blood and increased strain on the heart. The extent of the obstruction can be determined with a Polysomnogram or Sleep Study. Depending upon the results, the individual may be a candidate for surgical procedures to enhance airflow in the nose or in the throat. In other instances, sleep apnea can be relieved by a treatment called nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nasal CPAP). Nasal CPAP uses a mask-like device and pump that keep the airway open during each inspiration.
Hearing AidsHearing loss is one of the most common conditions in the world. Most hard-of-hearing people could benefit from modern hearing aids, as they can significantly improve the user's ability to understand speech in difficult listening situations. Unfortunately, many people hesitate to take the necessary action to overcome their disability, which could enable them to return to a full and active lifestyle.
Adenoidectomy
Adenoid removal, also called adenoidectomy, is the surgical removal of the adenoid glands from the area between the nasal airway and the back of the throat (nasopharynx). Adenoidectomy is frequently done in conjunction with surgical removal of tonsils (tonsillectomy).
The tympanic membrane, or ear drum, is made of tissue similar to skin. In most cases, perforations of the ear drum by some type of trauma, such as a puncture by a cotton tipped applicator, or a slap injury, will heal spontaneously in much the same way a cut on an arm would heal.
Septoplasty is an operation that corrects any defects or deformities of the nasal septum, which is the wall between the two nostrils. The goal of the surgery is to straighten out the nasal septum or to relieve obstructions or other problems related to deviation of the septum. An incision is made internally on one side of the nasal septum. Afterwards, the mucous membrane is elevated away from the cartilage and bone, obstructive parts are removed, and plastic surgery is performed as necessary. Then the mucous membrane is returned to its original position. The tissues covering the septum are maintained in the midline by either sutures or packing.
Enlarged inferior turbinates are often the cause of chronic nasal congestion. Even after the underlying problem is addressed, such as chronic infection or allergy, the enlargement may remain. There are varying ways to reduce the size of the turbinate, from radiofrequency ablation done in the office under local anesthesia (no downtime for the patient), to submucous resection or even partial turbinectomy done in the operating room as an outpatient. 
The tonsil glands serve as agents against infections. However, in some people, particularly in children who have large tonsils, these glands perform less efficiently and can cause frequent throat and ear infections or may obstruct breathing. In these cases, surgery to remove the tonsils is of benefit.
For mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea, treatment often consists of using methods to avoid sleeping on one's back. For people with significant nasal congestion, a decongestant therapy may be prescribed. Patients with obstructive and central apnea should avoid central nervous system depressants such as alcoholic beverages, sedatives and narcotics. Weight loss and diet control are encouraged for overweight patients.
Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions in the world. Most hard-of-hearing people could benefit from modern hearing aids, as they can significantly improve the user's ability to understand speech in difficult listening situations. Unfortunately, many people hesitate to take the necessary action to overcome their disability, which could enable them to return to a full and active lifestyle. 
