Cholesteatoma is a benign but locally destructive skin cyst in the middle ear. It usually results from chronic ear infection or a hole in the eardrum.  Although rare, congenital (from birth) cholesteatomas can occur. Cholesteatomas often cause drainage from the ear , grow and cause damage to the ear leading to hearing loss, dizziness, or facial paralysis. Initial treatment may include frequent ear cleaning and ear drops, but surgery is usually necessary to remove this destructive growth. The primary goal of surgery is to create a safe, dry ear. Restoration of hearing is the secondary goal and depending on the severity of the disease may be done at the time of the initial removal of the cholesteatoma or during a  secondary procedure.    Surgery for cholesteatoma removal is done by trained surgeons using an operating microscope. Most patients can go home the same day.