Pediatric Otologist &Ear Specialist
Greater Philadelphia's Expert in children's ear care
Pediatric Ear Specialist in Ambler, PA
Specialized pediatric ear care in Montgomery County—without the city commute and long wait times
As a parent, nothing is more important than your child’s health and development. Because a child’s hearing is directly tied to how they learn to talk, read, and make friends, even common ear problems need expert attention.
While pediatricians and general ENTs (Ear, Nose, and Throat doctors) treat basic childhood illnesses, complex ear issues require a specialist. At Greater Philadelphia Ear Specialists, P.C., board certified and fellowship trained Otologist Dr. Sean Larner provides expert pediatric ear care.
Why See a Pediatric Otologist?
Children’s ears are not just smaller versions of adult ears. Their bodies are still growing and developing. For example, kids have a tiny tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, called the Eustachian tube. In children, this tube is shorter, wider, and more horizontal than it is in adults. Because of this shape, it is very easy for fluid to get trapped and for germs to cause ear infections.
An otologist is a specialized ear surgeon. They go through years of extra training to learn how to treat highly complex ear diseases and hearing issues. If your child has constant infections, a torn eardrum, or trouble hearing, an otologist has the specialized skills and tools needed to help them.
Pediatric Ear Conditions We Treat
We offer advanced testing and treatments for a wide range of pediatric ear problems including:
- Chronic Ear Infections (Otitis Media): Recurrent ear infections that do not respond to antibiotic therapy.
- Fluid Behind the Eardrum: Fluid that stays trapped in the ear for a long time. This can cause temporary hearing loss and make it hard for a child to learn to speak.
- Torn Eardrums (Perforations): Holes in the eardrum caused by severe infections or by accidentally poking something too deep into the ear canal.
- Cholesteatoma in Children: A rare, non-cancerous skin growth that develops behind the eardrum. If it is not removed, it can grow quickly and damage the tiny bones(ossicles) that help your child hear.
- Pediatric Hearing Loss: Comprehensive evaluation of congenital or acquired hearing loss and offering solutions such as hearing aids or advanced devices like cochlear implants.
- Eustachian Tube Issues: Blockages that cause painful pressure, popping, or a stuffed-up feeling in the ears.
Advanced In-Office Pediatric Treatments & Procedures
To make visits as stress-free as possible for you and your child, we perform several treatments right here in our Ambler office. This means your child won’t need to be put to sleep under general anesthesia, and you can avoid a stressful trip to a crowded hospital:
- Ear Tubes (Myringotomy): Small, specialized tubes placed in the eardrum to help fluid drain, relieve painful pressure, and restore normal hearing.
- In-Office Ear Tube Removal: Safe, quick removal of old ear tubes that do not fall out on their own.
- Eardrum Patching (Myringoplasty): A quick procedure to patch small holes in the eardrum, protecting the inner ear from dirt and water.
- Microscopic Ear Cleaning: Using a specialized ear microscope and tiny, precise tools to clear out stubborn earwax without using uncomfortable water sprays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of a hearing or ear problem in a child?
In infants and toddlers, look out for a lack of response to loud sounds, speech delays, frequent pulling or tugging at the ears, unexplained balance issues, or fluid leaking from the ear. In school-aged children, signs include turning the TV volume up very high, struggling in school, or asking you to repeat yourself often.
Does my child need general anesthesia for ear tubes?
While very young children or complex cases are best treated with a quick outpatient procedure at a local surgery center, many minor procedures, like removing old ear tubes or patching a tiny hole, can be done safely and comfortably right in our Ambler office while your child is awake.
What is a cholesteatoma, and is it dangerous?
A cholesteatoma is a harmless skin cyst, but it can behave aggressively in kids. Because a child’s ears are still growing, these cysts can expand quickly. If left alone, they can damage the delicate bones of the ear. An ear specialist should look at this as soon as possible.
Do you treat families who live outside of Ambler?
Yes! Our office on Bethlehem Pike is easy to reach for families living in Blue Bell, Doylestown, Spring House, and communities throughout Bucks County, Montgomery County, and North Philadelphia.
Ready to Help Your Child Hear and Feel Their Best?
Do not let ear pain or hearing struggles delay your child’s development. Schedule a specialized pediatric consultation with Dr. Sean Larner at our Ambler office today. Call (215) 383-1333 or request an appointment online.
Sources
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: Ear Infections and Kids’ Health Information
- National Institute on Deafness (NIDCD): Ear Infections in Children and How They Affect Speech
- HealthyChildren.org (By the American Academy of Pediatrics): Middle Ear Fluid and Ear Tubes Explained
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sean Larner | May 6, 2026
This content is strictly for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.