FAQ's

1) How long will I be out of the water?
- Healing times are variable but on average expect to keep the ear dry for 2 weeks. Most patients are healed and back in the water surfing  2 to 2.5 weeks after surgery.

2) Do you use a microchisel or a drill technique?
- I use a unique hybrid technique that I developed which exploits the benefits of several instruments.  The bulk of the exostosis is removed with either a 1 or 2mm custom-made micro-chisel.  This invariably leaves sharp and jagged bony spurs and edges which I then burnish down with both a low-speed diamond burr and an instrument called a curette, thus creating a smooth, widened ear canal. 

3) Do you go through the ear canal or cut behind the ear?
- I almost always go through the ear canal.  I believe this reducing healing times, decreases post-op pain and eliminates the risk of ear numbness or malposition. In rare cases such as 100% blocked, acutely infected ears it may be necessary to go behind the ear to get adequate access.  I haven't had to do this in over 5 years.

4) How painful is the surgery?
- One third of patients have no pain….zero. The other two thirds have mild discomfort for 24 hours. Typically my patients will use 1-4 pain pills, usually on the day of surgery, and may need tylenol, if anything, after that.

4) Where are you located?
- I have 2 locations: one in La Jolla, CA and a second in Del Mar, CA.  Both are suburbs of sunny San Diego.

5) How do I learn more or schedule an appointment?
- Click on the "Consultation" tab for further information

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