Immersion after ear tube removal - Nishmat Yoatzot Halacha

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Immersion after ear tube removal

January 24, 2011

Question

Hi: I was at the doctor this morning to have an ear tube removed. I had it placed about 6 weeks ago to drain my inner ear. When the doctor removed the ear tube, he said he placed a little piece of "paper" over the wound to help it heal. I do not have to go back and see him, which suggests that this will somehow dissolve on its own.

I didn't think about this until I was preparing to go to Mikvah – which I did tonight, and then I suddenly wondered whether this might be a problem. I went and forgot about it once more, until now, when its too late to call anyone here. Is this a problem? Do I have to go back and have it removed and repeat tevilah? I would be grateful for any assistance ASAP.

Thank you.

Answer

Given that the paper you describe is self-dissolving and fully embedded within the ear canal, it does not present a chatzitzah. Your tevilah is valid.

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