I Had Bi-level ACDF C5/6 & C6/7 Almost Two Years

I had bi-level ACDF C5/6 & C6/7 almost two years ago. The esophagus was moved to the left side for the procedure. Immediately after surgery I noticed a sound-induced muffling in the left ear, not painful but rather annoying and has affected my social life drastically. It kicks in at a certain decibel level, not loud or anything. Neurosurgeon brushed it off at all follow up visits and finally told me to visit ENT surgeon, who also brushed it off. I’ve always had issues with fluid retention in the inner ear and the ENT suggested ear tubes and that the surgery may alleviate the so-called “noise muffling” that I have experienced since my spine surgery. Still having the same problem. Any ideas what this is and what to do? It’s driving me into depression.