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Cholesteatoma:

Understanding a Serious Middle Ear Condition in Austin

A cholesteatoma is a cyst made of skin cells that forms behind the eardrum. Although it is not cancerous, it can grow over time and damage the middle ear, the surrounding bone, and the structures involved in hearing and balance. Because this condition often begins with infections or a long-standing eardrum issue, early evaluation is important to protect hearing health.

At Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy, we assess ear symptoms to determine whether a cholesteatoma may be present and outline treatment choices based on your exam findings, imaging, and hearing test results.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Common Signs of Cholesteatoma

A cholesteatoma may cause:

  • Persistent drainage, sometimes with an odor
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in one ear
  • Gradual hearing loss
  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing)
  • Occasional dizziness or unsteady moments
  • Repeated ear infections that keep coming back

These symptoms overlap with many other ear conditions, so a careful evaluation is needed before reaching a diagnosis.

Who Is More Likely to Develop a Cholesteatoma?

Several factors can increase the risk:

  • A history of repeated middle ear infections
  • A long-standing eardrum perforation
  • Problems with pressure regulation in the middle ear
  • Previous ear surgery
  • Conditions that affect how the eardrum moves

Not everyone with these issues develops a cholesteatoma, but they can help guide your assessment.

How Cholesteatoma Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis typically involves:

  • A detailed ear exam
  • Hearing tests to evaluate sound transmission
  • Imaging, such as CT scans, when needed

These steps help determine whether a cyst is present, how large it is, and whether nearby structures are involved.

Treatment Options for Cholesteatoma

Cholesteatomas typically require surgery to be removed. While medications may help manage symptoms, surgical intervention is often necessary to fully address the condition and prevent further complications. Your treatment plan may include one or both of the following procedures:

Mastoidectomy

This procedure removes diseased tissue and the cyst from the mastoid bone behind the ear. It is often recommended when a cholesteatoma has grown into deeper spaces.

Tympanoplasty

If the eardrum has been damaged, tympanoplasty restores it using tissue from another part of the body. This helps protect the middle ear and may improve hearing.

Your ENT will review the risks, expected results, and recovery process to help you decide on the best approach.

Explore Your Surgical Options with a Trusted ENT Team

When to Seek Care for Ear Symptoms

While cholesteatoma often progresses gradually, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention:

  • Sudden hearing loss
  • Persistent or worsening ear drainage
  • New or severe dizziness
  • Ear pain, swelling, or fever
  • A rapid increase in tinnitus
  • Facial weakness on one side

These signs may point to complications that need timely care.

If you’re unsure what is causing your symptoms, an exam and hearing test can provide helpful answers and guide next steps.

Living With Cholesteatoma

Many people do well once the cyst is removed, especially with follow-up visits to monitor healing and check for recurrence. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve hearing and reduce the chances of long-term problems.

Support for Your Ear Health in Austin

Ear symptoms can be stressful, but you do not have to sort through them alone. If you are experiencing drainage, hearing changes, or recurring infections, we can help determine whether a cholesteatoma may be involved and walk you through the treatment process. At Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy, we are here to evaluate, guide, and support you at every step.

Schedule an ear evaluation today to learn whether a cholesteatoma may be affecting your hearing or comfort.

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Individual results may vary.
The effectiveness of treatments can differ based on individual circumstances.

Austin Ear, Sinus & Allergy

ADDRESS

12319 N. Mopac Expy
Building C, Suite 300
Austin, TX 78758

PHONE

(512) 454-0341

FAX

(512) 454-9915

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday – Friday: 8am - 5pm
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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  • (512) 454-0341
  • Patient Portal
  • Home
  • Sinus
    • Sinus Treatment Services
    • Sinus Infection Treatment
    • Balloon Sinuplasty
    • Sinus Quiz
  • Allergy
    • Allergy Treatment Services
    • Allergy Treatment
    • Allergy Testing
    • Allergy Drops
    • Allergy Quiz
  • General ENT
    • General ENT Services
    • Septoplasty
    • Deviated Septum
    • Nasal Polyps
    • Nasal Congestion
  • Ear & Hearing Loss
    • Ear & Hearing Loss Services
    • Ear Infections
    • Tinnitus
    • Hearing Loss & Testing
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    • Ear Wax Removal
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  • About Us
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Austin Ear, Sinus & Allergy