Visiting an Ear Discharge Specialist in Mumbai: My Interview with Dr. Shama S Kovale
- Pooja Vishwakarma
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
As a medical journalist, I recently visited the ENT department of Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital & Medical Research Institute to meet Dr. Shama S Kovale — widely regarded as an ear discharge specialist Mumbai patients trust. The moment I introduced myself, I mentioned that I was writing on “ear discharge specialist Mumbai,” and she greeted me warmly, ready to talk about her expertise, patient care philosophy and everything in between.
Who is Dr. Shama S Kovale — Credentials and Clinical Experience
Dr. Shama S Kovale is a well-qualified ENT surgeon with MS (ENT) and DORL credentials from the prestigious B.Y.L. Nair Hospital and Topiwala National Medical College in Mumbai. She also underwent advanced fellowships — a Phonosurgery (voice & swallowing) fellowship from the Association of Phonosurgeons of India, and specialized training in cochlear implant surgery.
With over 23 years of overall clinical and surgical experience, she is acknowledged as one of the “Best ENT Specialist in Mumbai.” Her interests span ear, nose, throat, voice and swallowing disorders, and she brings that breadth to bear even when addressing ear-related issues like chronic ear infection or ear discharge.
In her current role at Kokilaben Hospital, she heads a dedicated Voice and Swallowing Clinic — but she also handles otology and neuro-otology cases, including ear microsurgeries, tympanoplasty, mastoidectomy, and other ear procedures.
Clinic Environment and Expertise: What I Observed
During my visit, the ENT wing felt modern and well-equipped. The multidisciplinary setup at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital ensures that patients with ear discharge, chronic ear infections or more complex ear problems get comprehensive evaluation and care — from diagnostics to microsurgery, as needed.
Dr. Kovale explained that the clinic not only treats straightforward ear-infection cases (common in children and adults) but is also prepared for more advanced surgical interventions if conservative treatment fails. According to the information on the hospital’s page and the clinic website, she manages a variety of procedures: ear drum repair (tympanoplasty), mastoidectomy, microsurgery, as well as hearing-related interventions.
What stood out during the interview was her patient-first philosophy: she emphasized transparent communication, explaining conditions clearly before recommending either conservative management or surgery.
Benefits and Risks of Treatment
When I asked Dr. Kovale about the benefits and risks of treating ear discharge or infection under her care, she outlined the following:
Benefits
Proper diagnosis by a trained ENT surgeon ensures that underlying causes (e.g., chronic infection, eardrum perforation, fluid accumulation) are identified and addressed — avoiding misdiagnosis.
For many patients, conservative management (medications, ear cleaning) resolves the problem, reducing discomfort, hearing loss, and risk of complications.
In cases requiring surgery (e.g., tympanoplasty, mastoidectomy), the benefits include restoration of eardrum integrity, improved hearing, and reduction in recurrent discharge or infection. Dr. Kovale’s expertise in microsurgery and otology gives patients access to advanced care.
Risks / Possible ComplicationsAs with all ENT procedures, there are inherent risks: post-surgical complications such as infection, hearing fluctuations, or prolonged healing times. There can also be discomfort or temporary lifestyle limitations (e.g., avoiding water entering the ear, activity restrictions). Dr. Kovale candidly noted that while many surgeries succeed, success depends on patient compliance with aftercare and hygiene post-procedure.
Approximate Cost Range
Dr. Kovale reminded me that costs vary widely, depending on severity, the need for surgery, and hospital stay duration. For a routine consultation and conservative ear-infection treatment, the fee is modest.
For surgical interventions — for example, ear drum repair (tympanoplasty) or mastoidectomy — costs can rise significantly, factoring in operating theatre charges, surgeon and anesthesia fees, and hospital stay. Though she did not quote a fixed figure, she advised prospective patients to contact the hospital for a tailored estimate. This ambiguity reflects real-life variation rather than marketing.
Precautions and Aftercare Advice
Towards the end of our conversation, Dr. Kovale underlined several important aftercare and preventive measures:
Ear hygiene — keep the ear clean and dry, especially until healing is confirmed. Avoid water ingress during bathing/swimming.
Medication compliance — if antibiotics or ear drops are prescribed, follow the full course even after symptoms recede, to prevent relapse.
Follow-up visits — attend scheduled follow-ups to monitor healing and hearing.
Avoid self-treatment — don’t insert cotton swabs or foreign objects into the ear; let a trained ENT specialist handle cleaning.
Lifestyle & environment — maintain a clean, dust-free environment; avoid exposure to loud noise or pollutants that can aggravate ear problems.
Broader Significance — When to Consult an Ear Discharge Specialist
During the interview, I reflected on how common ear discharge issues can be underestimated — many people treat recurring ear discharge as a minor, temporary issue. But as Dr. Kovale explained, chronic ear discharge can lead to hearing impairment, repeated infections, and even complications requiring surgery. Having an experienced ENT surgeon — especially one recognized among the “Best ENT Specialist in Mumbai” — can be the difference between recurring discomfort and definitive treatment.
For individuals in Mumbai seeking reliable ENT care, particularly for stubborn ear discharge or recurrent ear infections, having access to such expertise matters. The combination of clinical experience, surgical skill, and a patient-first approach makes a real difference in outcomes.
Closing Thoughts & Reflection
My visit to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and my conversation with Dr. Shama S Kovale reaffirmed for me the critical role of experienced ENT professionals in diagnosing and treating ear discharge issues. The phrase “ear discharge specialist Mumbai” is not just a label — for many patients, it represents a pathway to relief, hearing restoration, and an end to recurring discomfort.
If you are in Mumbai and dealing with chronic ear problems: consider consulting with Dr. Kovale. Her clinic stands out not only for medical expertise but also for compassionate, patient-centered care.
Let’s enhance your natural well-being and hearing strength — if you wish, you can reach out to:
📍 Clinic Address:
📞 Give Us a Ring: +91-91528 50769
📧 Email: drshamakovaleent@gmail.com
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