I am now 6 weeks post-op with newly constructed eardrum. My first hearing test was not encouraging. A drop in both high end and low end sounds with reconstruction--I heard better with the hole. 'However, having a hole in my eardrum meant that with every shower, hair wash, swim, etc. I had to make a water-proof plug with a cotton ball and vaseline, so that it couldn't get into my ear canal. I can't believe how much easier life is without having to think and about and do that. I'll have a re-test in 6 months to see if anything has improved. With my hearing loss now in the "moderate" range, I will be a candidate for a hearing aid. Still hoping for the best. Time will tell.