Ear Exam
With otosclerosis the eardrum usually looks normal, so a careful exam helps rule out other causes such as fluid, infection, or earwax.
Ear Clinic
Otosclerosis
If sounds have slowly become muffled, otosclerosis may be the cause. Our neurotologists and audiologists offer a careful evaluation and walk you through every option, from hearing aids to stapedotomy surgery.
What Is Otosclerosis?
Otosclerosis is abnormal bone growth in the middle ear. It most often affects the stapes, a tiny bone that passes sound vibrations to the inner ear. As the stapes stiffens, sound has a harder time getting through, causing conductive hearing loss.
It often runs in families and usually begins in early to middle adulthood. It is more common in women and may progress during pregnancy. It frequently affects both ears, though often one more than the other.
Common Symptoms
- Hearing loss that slowly worsens over time
- Hearing better in noisy places than quiet ones
- Ringing or buzzing (tinnitus)
How It Is Diagnosed
Hearing Evaluation
A full hearing test, including bone-conduction testing, shows the conductive pattern of hearing loss typical of otosclerosis.
Tympanometry & Reflex Testing
These tests measure how the eardrum and middle ear bones move. Absent acoustic reflexes are a common finding.
Treatment Options
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids work very well for the conductive hearing loss caused by otosclerosis and are a safe, non-surgical option.
Stapedotomy Surgery
A tiny opening is made in the stiffened stapes and a small prosthesis is placed so sound can reach the inner ear again. It is usually an outpatient procedure and can greatly improve hearing in most patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is otosclerosis hereditary?
It often runs in families. If a parent or sibling has otosclerosis, your chance of developing it is higher.
How successful is stapedotomy?
Most patients notice a significant improvement in hearing. Your surgeon will discuss your expected results and the small risk of further hearing loss in the operated ear.
How long is recovery after stapedotomy?
Most people go home the same day and return to light activity within about a week. You will be asked to avoid heavy lifting, nose blowing, and flying for a short time while the ear heals.
Can both ears be treated?
Yes. When both ears are affected, surgery is usually done on one ear at a time, starting with the worse-hearing ear, with the second ear considered later.
When to Be Seen Promptly
Call us promptly for sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, or new ear pain or drainage, especially after ear surgery. Sudden hearing loss should be evaluated as soon as possible.
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