Advanced Treatment
for Cholesteatoma
Greater Philadelphia's Expert in the treatment of Cholesteatoma
Cholesteatoma Treatment in Ambler, PA
For patients in the Greater Philadelphia area, receiving a diagnosis of a cholesteatoma can be overwhelming. While it sounds complex, understanding this condition is the first step toward effective treatment and hearing preservation.
Ambler’s Ear Specialist Dr. Sean Larner provides the advanced otologic expertise required to manage this condition safely and effectively.
What is a Cholesteatoma?
A cholesteatoma is a non-cancerous, abnormal skin growth that develops in the middle ear, usually behind the eardrum.
What Causes Cholesteatoma?
A cholesteatoma is an abnormal accumulation of skin cells in the middle ear. Depending on the origin, the causes are categorized into three types:
Acquired Cholesteatoma (Most Common)
Occurs due to long-term pressure issues or chronic ear infections.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: When the ear cannot equalize pressure, a vacuum is created, pulling the eardrum inward to form a retraction pocket.
- Skin Cell Accumulation: Within this pocket, dead skin cells and keratin become trapped. Because the ear canal is a confined space, these cells cannot shed naturally.
- Expansion & Erosion: The pocket expands into a cyst, which can eventually erode the ossicles (delicate hearing bones) or the mastoid bone.
Congenital Cholesteatoma
Skin cells that become trapped behind the eardrum while the ear is forming in the womb.
Traumatic Cholesteatoma (Least Common)
Caused by a physical injury or surgery that inadvertently pushes skin cells into the middle ear space.
What Are The Symptoms of Cholesteatoma?
Patients may notice:
- Ear Drainage: Persistent, foul-smelling drainage from the ear.
- Conductive Hearing Loss: A feeling of fullness or muffled hearing in one ear.
- Ear Pressure: A dull ache or a sensation of heaviness.
- Dizziness: If the growth affects the inner ear’s balance organs.
How Is Cholesteatoma Diagnosed?
Dr. Larner utilizes high-definition microscopic ear exams, a clinical standard of care, to visualize the ear canal and eardrum with precision. This level of sub-specialization is critical for distinguishing a cholesteatoma from a standard ear infection.
How is Cholesteatoma Treated?
Because cholesteatomas do not disappear with antibiotics and have a tendency to expand, surgery is almost always the recommended course of action.
Dr. Larner performs advanced ear surgeries typically done at large, city-centered hospitals. However, our patients benefit from the convenience of suburban access in Ambler. Most surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis at a local Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC). This allows for a more comfortable experience for the patient.
Mastoidectomy and Tympanoplasty
Depending on the extent of the growth, Dr. Larner may perform a mastoidectomy (removing the cyst from the bone behind the ear) and a tympanoplasty (repairing the eardrum). If the hearing bones have been damaged, a second procedure may be scheduled later to reconstruct the hearing mechanism and restore sound quality.
About Recovery
Cholesteatomas have a risk of recurrence. Choosing a specialized Otologist in the Greater Philadelphia area ensures you have a long-term partner in your ear health. Regular follow-up microscopic evaluation and cleanings are essential to ensure the ear remains healthy and clear.
Cholesteatoma Frequently Asked Questions
Is a cholesteatoma a tumor?
No. While it is sometimes referred to as a skin cyst, it is not a tumor and it is not cancerous. However, it is considered locally aggressive because it can erode bone if not surgically removed.
Can I treat a cholesteatoma with ear drops?
No. While antibiotic drops may temporarily stop the drainage caused by an infection associated with the cyst, they will not remove the skin growth itself. Surgery is the only definitive treatment.
How long is the recovery after surgery?
Most patients return to light activity within a few days, though you will need to keep the ear dry and avoid strenuous lifting for several weeks. Dr. Larner will provide a customized recovery plan during your consultation.
Will my hearing return after surgery?
The primary goal is to remove the disease and stop the infection. In many cases, hearing can be improved or stabilized, though some patients may require a secondary hearing restoration procedure once the ear is fully healed.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing persistent ear drainage or have been told you may have a cholesteatoma, don’t wait. Experience the benefit of a dedicated ear specialist right here in Ambler by calling (215) 383-1333 for an appointment today.
Sources
American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) , Cholesteatoma Patient Information
Mayo Clinic: Ear Infections and Cholesteatoma Overview
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sean Larner | Updated on April 28, 2026
This content is strictly for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.