How Much Does Create Eardrum Opening Cost?
Also known as: Create eardrum opening (CPT 69436)
Insertion of ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) in both ears to prevent recurrent ear infections or drain fluid.
The total estimated cost of Create Eardrum Opening (CPT 69436) is $486 to $911, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $145.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Create Eardrum Opening
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Under brief general anesthesia (usually for children), the surgeon makes a tiny incision in each eardrum and places a small tube to allow fluid drainage and air circulation. The tubes typically fall out on their own in 6-18 months.
How Long Does It Take?
10-15 minutes of surgery
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Recurrent ear infections in children, chronic fluid behind the eardrum, hearing loss from fluid buildup
How to Prepare
Fast as directed before anesthesia. Recovery is quick (most children are back to normal within a day). Keep water out of the ears as directed.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Create eardrum opening
How to Reduce Your Cost for Create eardrum opening
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (4.33) x CF ($33.40) = $145
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
People Also Ask
Common questions people search for about this procedure
How serious is ear tube surgery?
How expensive is ear tube surgery?
Procedure Details On MDsave, the cost of a Myringotomy with Ear Tube Insertion ranges from ,658 to ,784. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can shop, compare prices and save.
Do ear tubes leave a permanent hole?
At what age should ear tubes be removed?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Create eardrum opening cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Create eardrum opening is $145. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Create eardrum opening cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Create eardrum opening can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Create eardrum opening?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Create eardrum opening when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.