Surfer’s ear refers to bony growths in the ear canal, usually caused by many hours of exposure to cold water. This can cause trapping of water and recurrent ear infections.
Surgical removal of the growths using small, sharp chisels opens the canal.
Narrowing of the outer cartilaginous portion of the canal is corrected through a meatoplasty – a short procedure that is done in theatre under either local or general anaesthesia. It is extremely effective in helping patients retain their hearing aids and in helping prevent recurrent ear canal infections.