An exostosis is a noncancerous bone tumor. When they form in your ear canal, they are known as surfer’s ear. Cold water and air cause thin layers of abnormal bone to develop, making the condition common among surfers.
Left untreated, surfer’s ear may increase your risk of ear infections and hearing loss. Dr. Hadley is ready to provide personalized treatment for surfer’s ear to relieve uncomfortable symptoms.
Symptoms of Exostosis
Patients with surfer’s ear may experience:
- Frequent ear infections
- Ear pain
- Water trapped in the ear canal
- Minor hearing loss
- Decrease in the size of the ear canal, from abnormal bone growth
Treating Surfer’s Ear
If the exostosis is small, it may not require immediate treatment. For patients experiencing hearing loss, ear pain or frequent ear infections, the exostosis may need to be surgically removed.
There are two surgical options for treating surfer’s ear. One involves your surgeon making an incision behind your ear and using a drill to remove the growth. The other involves your surgeon using a small chisel inside your ear to remove the growth. Recovery for either procedure is quick, and our team is here to support you through the process and address any questions or concerns you may have.
Call Hawaii Ear Clinic for more information or to schedule an appointment.