Good Read on Surfers Ear in the AC press today

Mix yourself up the 50/50 blend of alcohol and white vinegar they refer to in the article and use a few drops after every surf. Alcohol dries the water up and the acidity in the vinegar prevents the bone growth from occurring, also kills any bacteria.

Was 85% closed about 10 years ago and considering the drilling. constantly felt like I had a crackling in my ear and got ear infections pretty regularly. I now religiously use a few drops everytime I get out the water (including the pool). Haven't had an ear infection since. No more crackling. Doc also says closure is now less than 50%.

Wifey says I smell like a salad once in a while but.....

 

Doc's pro plugs work, as long as you get them fitted at a Surf shop or dive shop.

They have thin cord leash to connect them to each other in case one falls out. Plus they float. Lost them only a few times, but always find them in the tide line.

Without a hood I run the leash through the zipper hole at the top of my 4/3, 3/2 or spring. Never lose them then. Only trunking it, and you'd be surprised how big a wave you take on the head and they stay in - if fitted right.

The ringing I have gets brutal, but nothing compared to the vertigo I get if the water gets in my ears and gets infected.
Like being hung over and seasick at the same time.

 

thats awesome that your ear closure actually got better in time, as you figured out how to manage it. The doctors out there like to push surgery like its sometimes the only option to get better, but your proof that you can improve surfer's ear naturally - awesome.