Private Grommet Ear Surgery in Birmingham

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As the name suggests, glue ear refers to the buildup of sticky fluid in the ear that makes it difficult to hear. It can also present with symptoms of ear pressure and blockage.  It is quite common in children and can affect their speech, language and education; however, it can also occur in adults. That is why doctors usually recommend treating glue with grommets, small plastic tubes that are inserted into the eardrum to allow for the passage of air into the ear, which equalises the middle ear pressures and allows for the dissipation and drainage of fluid. This is why, in other countries, grommets are known as ventilation tubes, because they ventilate the middle ear.

If you are looking to get private grommet ear surgery in Birmingham, speak to our team today to book your consultation. Let our highly experienced doctors help you or your little one hear better.

Why Might You Need Grommet Surgery?

When sticky fluid builds up in the middle of the ear, it prevents sound from passing through the eardrum properly. In some cases, this can lead to pain or even hearing loss in one or both ears. 
Research suggests that 8 in 10 children will experience glue ear before they reach the age of 10. However, the good news is that putting grommets into your child’s eardrum can help them if they have glue ear. We also treat adults with grommet surgery for conditions such as recurrent ear infections and ear pressure problems.

What Our Patients Say About Us

368 Total Reviews

Average Rating 4.4

Five star review

We took our 4 month old daughter due to rash from suspected allergies, as NHS GP appointment did not lead to answers/ referrals. An appointment was available for two days later at Midland Health. Her allergies were confirmed in one...

Laura Bains | 4th May 2025

Midland Health

Five star review

I had waited years on the NHS regarding my mild tongue tie. I had a frenectomy carried out by The NHS Coventry Hospital their maxilliofacial department, which was a bit of a fight to get as it seemed they considered...

Tasneem Abrahams | 29th Apr 2025

Midland Health

Five star review

Excellent, service Dr Kudlur was very kind and knowledgable and didn’t interrupt me (Which I think would have been reasonable as I overran our time!)

Tom Owens | 23rd Apr 2025

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Five star review

From my personal experience, I am so grateful to be in a position where I was able to book a private assessment for diagnosing my ADHD with Dr Kudlur.Due to my circumstances, this prognosis required immediate action, whereas the NHS...

Jordan | 23rd Apr 2025

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Five star review

Mine experience was very good 👍. Dr very nice and polite. She checked my son very well and he improved .

Sidra Ahmed | 15th Apr 2025

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Five star review

Dr Naganna and the other members of the team were excellent when we attended with our daughter. They were thorough and answered all our questions. An excellent team and an excellent location

Kashini Andrew | 12th Apr 2025

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Five star review

I’ve had two treatments so far with Emma Conway, just want to say she is absolutely brilliant - still on the journey to achieve my results but she really makes an effort and cares, she provides great customer service even...

Saira M | 7th Apr 2025

Midland Health

Five star review

Received excellent and consistent support with no issues and I recommend the service fully.

Callum Peters | 30th Mar 2025

Midland Health

Five star review

Yes I was happy with my consultation

Sue Gardner | 28th Mar 2025

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Five star review

I urgently needed to see a dermatologist and was so pleased I got an appointment with Midland Health very quickly. My consultation went very well and I was given very useful information about my skin condition. I'm pleased to say...

Janet Sadler | 18th Mar 2025

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Five star review

I used Midland health for a medical and they were exceptional with dealing with my case. Highest regards goes to the very helpful Paul Pencilu at reception.

Daman Mistry | 17th Mar 2025

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Five star review

Had an ultrasound scan with Andrea, and she was amazing! She was extremely reassuring and made me feel very comfortable. Thank you!

Mini M | 15th Mar 2025

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Five star review

Dr Smotra was very thorough and completely put me at ease during my appointments. Reports were sent out straight away.

Liz Gavan | 7th Mar 2025

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Five star review

I have been using Midlands Health since 2019 for all my Medical Needs, they are an amazing organisation and provide the best of care for their patients whom they genuinely care about. If you are looking for the best GP’s...

Dave Burrell | 7th Mar 2025

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Five star review

Very professional, punctual and effective

Chris Johnson | 14th Feb 2025

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Five star review

A very well deserved 5 star review Midland Health Clinic. The reception team are so welcoming, efficient and professional. I had an appointment with the Consultant Dr Sam Smith who reviewed my medical problems and gave me his professional clinical advice which...

Carole Rush | 28th Jan 2025

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Five star review

Went in today for a last minute blood test phoned them up got an appointment straight away, staff were professional, efficient and made you feel comfortable. Big thanks to Veronica the nurse and Martha at reception!

Nita dovedi | 9th Jan 2025

Midland Health

Five star review

I've had an incredibly positive experience with Dr. Rostamipour at Midlands Health Private GP. He has been incredibly supportive throughout my ADHD assessment and care. Dr. Rostamipour's holistic approach has been invaluable in guiding me through my treatment and medication...

Parminder Ubhi | 16th Dec 2024

Midland Health

Five star review

Just got a tongue tie release today by Dr Amit Parmar and the experience was excellent. Firstly Dr Parmar is very polite, nice and informative about each step of the procedure. I was nervous initially but after speaking with Dr...

Nadia Ali | 2nd Dec 2024

Midland Health

Five star review

I came here after nhs was so rude to me, I am a profoundly deaf women and nhs made me feel so small, so I came here for an audiology test, Mohammed (mo) who did my test was amazing I...

Sycah Khan | 30th Nov 2024

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Five star review

Louise made me feel so relaxed and sorted my problem in a warm and professional manner in lovely surroundings. I highly recommend 👌

L Coffey | 26th Nov 2024

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Five star review

Dr Ho has taken over my daughters Care and we feel very reassured that she going to be well looked after now. Midland health have been very helpful in all areas and have provided an outstanding service so far.

Shirley Carter | 30th Oct 2024

Midland Health

Five star review

Thank you, Mr Parmar for performing a minor procedure that was unavailable on the NHS but is already having such a positive impact for my daughter. She was completely put at ease and all aspects of pre and post care...

Angela Capper | 11th Sep 2024

Midland Health

Five star review

Dr. Rupa parmer was very professional. The reception is kind and everyone was on time.

qusai salaita | 5th Sep 2024

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Five star review

Having never been to a private GP before I didn't know what to expect. What I got was a lovely appointment with a lady who seemed to genuinely care about how I felt and took the time to really understand...

Nat W | 3rd Sep 2024

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Five star review

My wife and I are very pleased with the service provided, the doctor who saw my son for severe eczema was very attentive and answered all of our questions thoroughly....

James Myatt | 29th Aug 2024

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Five star review

I had an initial appointment and booked for a further follow appointment up with Dr Sarah Wright. I felt well looked after, that my concerns were listened too, with a genuine desire to help me get some answers for my...

Amanda G | 27th Aug 2024

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Five star review

I used Midland Health for their Gold Package Health Check. The facilities were clean and well presented in a nice area. There was parking available on site and the reception area wasn't busy at all. Staff were extremely friendly and...

Jess Winter | 8th Aug 2024

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Five star review

the doctor was brilliant and explained my medication completely with all possible side effects. Would recommend this clinic

Dannie H | 1st Jul 2024

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Five star review

Wow. I attended clinic today to see Dr Kasparis for a mole mapping appointment and he was absolutely amazing. He made me feel at ease straight away and explained the process throughout. Really put my mind at ease for someone...

Bethany Miller Holmes | 22nd Jun 2024

Midland Health

Causes & Symptoms

While glue ear is not an infection, it often follows a middle ear infection, especially in young children. 

Other potential causes of glue ear include:

  • Swollen or infected adenoids - Adenoids refer to the tissue at the back of the nose that helps to fight infection. When this tissue is swollen, glue ear can get worse. Usually, doctors will advise that your child have their adenoids removed and grommets inserted.
  • Problems with the eustachian tube - The tube between the back of the nose and the middle of the ear.
  • Inflamed middle ear.

The chances of your child getting glue ear increase if:

  • You feed them with an unventilated bottle
  • You or someone in your household smokes
  • They regularly have colds or throat infections
  • They have allergies
  • They are around lots of other unwell children, e.g. in nurseries
  • They have Down Syndrome or a cleft palate

It can be challenging for children to describe what is bothering them. But thankfully, there are some signs parents can look out for, including:

  • Problems with speech and language
  • Hearing problems - Children with glue ear may be more irritable because they are having difficulty hearing and participating in conversations. You may also notice that they have the television on a high volume or talk loudly
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Problems with balance
  • Trouble concentrating
  • A change in behaviour

Other symptoms that can impact both adults and children include:

  • Mild ear pain
  • Popping sensation
  • A feeling of fullness in the ear

If you are looking to get private grommet ear surgery in Birmingham, speak to our team today to book your consultation. Let our highly experienced doctors help you or your loved ones hear better—whether child or adult.

How to Prepare

Before the surgery, you will have a formal consultation with our ENT Surgeons. To determine the best treatment plan, you will need to let us know about your medical history and symptoms. 

If our consultants recommend grommet surgery, they will explain what happens during the procedure and whether local or General anaesthetic will be needed. General anaesthetic is the most suitable approach for children.

What Happens During the Procedure

Understandably, surgery can be pretty stressful for you or your child, but there is no need to worry. Our knowledgeable and caring healthcare professionals will be by your side throughout the entire process.

Before the operation, a local anaesthetic will be administered, which means that the area is completely numb to pain whilst the grommets are fitted, but you’re awake during the procedure.

During the procedure, the surgeon will examine the eardrum under a microscope and make a small cut in the eardrum. This cut is usually around 2mm. They will then use a fine sucker to drain the fluid in the middle ear. The grommet is then fitted into the hole to allow air to pass into the ear. It is possible to treat both ears in just one operation, and it will usually take up to 20 minutes to insert the grommets.

To prevent infection, ear drops containing an antibiotic and a steroid may be put into the ear.

Please note that having the procedure under local anaesthetic is safe; however, it requires the ability to lie still. If this isn’t possible, general anaesthetic may be needed, particularly for children, which will need to be carried out at a hospital.

Mr Fussey performs grommet surgery under local anaesthetic for adults, while children’s procedures will be carried out under general anaesthetic by one of our paediatric ENT specialists, Mr Amit Parmar.

To ensure that your child feels safe, you can accompany them to the operating room and stay by their side. Our medical experts will provide your child with outstanding patient care in the operating theatre and recovery room, and you will be able to go home a few hours after the procedure when a general anaesthetic is required.

Aftercare

Grommet surgery does not usually involve an overnight stay. After the procedure, patients will be taken to a recovery room. Our professionals closely monitor patients as the local anaesthetic wears off. Patients are then taken to a comfortable area where they can rest until they are ready to go home.

If you have the procedure under local anaesthetic, then you can go home within 30 minutes of having the procedure.

Recovery Time

Shortly after the operation, it is not uncommon for children to experience a small amount of ear discomfort. But this is completely normal. If the discomfort is too much for them to manage, consider giving them paracetamol or ibuprofen following the instructions on the packet. Similarly, it is normal for there to be a little blood-stained discharge.

As the eardrum heals, the body will naturally push the grommet out into the ear canal. This usually happens over a period of 9 - 12 months, and afterwards, the hole in the eardrum will close up in the majority of patients. In rare circumstances, there may be a perforation in the tympanic membrane; however, for some people, this may be beneficial as it’s like having a long-term grommet. For other people, this perforation may need repairing in the future. Your ENT surgeon will discuss this with you during the initial consultation.

If the grommet does not come out by itself, it may need to be removed with another small operation. Likewise, if the hole does not seal up, this can be treated with a small operation.

At this point, the glue ear has usually cleared. But if the sticky fluid returns, another grommet may need to be put in.

Taking Care of Your Child

Even after your private grommet surgery, our surgeons will ensure that you or your child receives the best care. We may provide a course of antibiotic ear drops to help prevent infection and make sure that you are well aware of any potential risks. Around six weeks later, our surgeons will check the position of the grommets to ensure there are no complications.

Prices

ENT Consultation for adults and children

£265

30 minutes

Grommet Surgery for Adults

£799 for both ears

(Under Local Anaesthetic)

(Adult Grommet Procedure for One Ear: £599)

Grommet Surgery for Children

Estimated Price: £2,200

(Under General Anaesthetic)

Our Surgeons

Our private ear glue treatments in Birmingham are conducted by our in-house specialist, Amit Parmar, who is supported by Jonathan Fussey. Amit and Jonathan excel at meeting high standards and hold posts at well-renowned hospitals in the UK, delivering ENT expertise in complex surgeries.

Mr Amit Parmar

Mr Amit Parmar, a distinguished Consultant ENT Surgeon for adults and children at Midland Health, brings extensive experience and expertise to his practice. Recognised with the Wolfson Fellowship and the Henry Silverman ENT Prize, he also treats patients at the internationally renowned Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital. In addition to his clinical work, he has lectured medical students at the University of Bristol and recently developed a training programme for future ENT surgeons.

Mr Jonathan Fussey

Mr JonathanFussey specialises in adult ENT treatments, drawing on his extensive training in ENT surgery in Birmingham and an advanced fellowship in head and neck surgery in Sydney, Australia. Mr Fussey offers a wide range of services, including grommet procedures for adults.

Why Choose Us

With our private glue ear treatments, you or your little one can get crucial grommet surgery quickly without needing a referral from a GP referral or having to deal with hearing problems whilst on a waiting list. Plus, you can select an appointment time that works for you.

You benefit from:

  • Glue ear treatments with our specialist surgeon within a matter of days
  • Instant medical care without waiting lists or GP referrals
  • Highly advanced medical facilities

How to Find Us

We carry out private grommet surgery at our Highfield Clinic, located in the heart of Edgbaston’s renowned medical quarter in Birmingham. Set within a beautifully restored Georgian building, the clinic offers a calm and professional environment, featuring six modern clinical rooms, two spacious waiting areas, and a welcoming reception team.

The clinic is easily accessible whether you're travelling locally or from further afield. Edgbaston is well connected by road, with direct access from the A38, one of Birmingham’s main arterial routes. We're just a short drive from the city centre and within easy reach of the M5, M6, and M42 motorways, making travel straightforward from across the Midlands and beyond.

For those arriving by car, there is free roadside parking available directly outside the clinic for up to two hours. Additional pay-and-display parking is available next door, with payment accepted via contactless, app or cash.

We’re also well connected by public transport. Five Ways railway station is approximately a 15-minute walk away and provides direct links to Birmingham New Street Station, offering convenient access from across the UK. A short walk from the clinic, Highfield Road bus stop is served by several bus routes, making it easy to reach us from surrounding areas.

Highfield Clinic,
23a Highfield Road,
Edgbaston,
Birmingham,
B15 3DP

FAQ

Glue ear occurs when the eustachian tube stops draining the mucus in the middle ear, causing it to build up and get sticky. This is usually caused by a previous ear infection, allergies or smoke irritation.

Inserting grommets allows air to flow through the middle ear. This, in turn, prevents the build-up of fluid that affects hearing.

In some cases, glue ear will get better by itself over time. However, if this does not happen, you may need to wear a hearing aid until your hearing improves.

As with any other procedure, there are potential complications with grommet surgery, including:

  • Earache
  • Bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Clear fluid or fluid mixed with blood leaking from the ear for 1 - 2 days
  • Ear discharge for more than 2 days
  • Continued build-up of fluid
  • A small hole remains in the eardrum

Generally, patients can go home the same day and return to their day-to-day activities after 1 - 2 days. It is advisable not to swim for at least 6 weeks and not dive deeper than 2 metres after this period.

To speed up the recovery time, it is a good idea to engage in regular exercise. However, it is wise to get the go-ahead from your surgeon before exercising again.

Depending on the design and material, the grommet should fall out after 9 - 12 months. In some cases, it can take up to 18 months to fall out. Occasionally, it falls out sooner than 9 months.

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