Chronic Tinnitus After Eardrum Perforation and Tympanoplasty

[laurensussex]

I'm a 30-year-old female. I developed tinnitus after an ear infection that eventually caused my eardrum to perforate. The tinnitus began after the perforation and while I was still exposed to everyday noises, such as working in an office, driving my car, or listening to music at a low volume. My GP said that listening to music at a low level should be fine.

I was placed on the NHS waiting list for a tympanoplasty. The perforation happened in January last year, and I finally had the surgery in April 2025. The procedure was successful, but I had hoped the tinnitus would go away afterward. My GP had told me it likely would, but towards the end of the year, the hospital informed me that there was only a low chance of it resolving.

Now I have chronic tinnitus, and it's sucking the joy out of every day. Has anyone had a similar experience, and did it eventually get better? At the moment, each day feels quite defeating, and it's hard not to grieve the life I had before the tinnitus started.

 

[BrOKeN_1]

Even though my tinnitus did not develop under the same circumstances, I can deeply sympathize with your feeling of joy being drained.

Even after nearly five years, this condition is a constant reminder that silence is a gift. In time, you will most likely come to accept it as an obstacle that, while very oppressive, can be managed. And yes, joy can absolutely still be found—whether fleeting or lasting, life can still be enjoyed.

I hope you find your balance and some peace. There will be ups and downs along the way. Try to stay positive whenever you can.