I've burst my ear drums one too many times and if it happens again it could be permanent! the specialist has suggested windsurfing/surfing is not an ideal activity for me, off course this is not viable.
does anyone know of or use desent ear plugs that actually stay in whilst in the water?
I have had ear surgery for surfer's ear - and now constantly get water trapped in my right ear...
I have tried a few including blu-tak and the expensive gel ones... all fall out. I also tried the ones that look like a small christmas tree but they stick out about 15mm...
I now stick with the 'Surgipack' protective ear plugs. They are small white rubber grommet type - and come with a yellow cord between the two. They are super comfortable, and have never let me down - and best of all, they are $4.50 from the Chemist.
I too have a bad ear which required multiple surgical interventions when I was younger.
I use blutack and don't have a problem with it. If the wind is really up or out in breaking waves I'll use my Gath helmet. As I have a GoPro with helmet mount I'm using my helmet more anyway.
Blutack with a Gath helmet should soften up any water impacts that could hurt your ear again.
Do you burst them going A up kitesurfing, as in belting your head sideways into the drink ?
I did this badly once windsurfing, like Moby I got a gath helmet to stop the water hydraulicking into my ear canal. I don't like sticking crap into my ear.
OUCH!
Occupational hazard for me so I wear a Protec Wake Ace that has ear flaps.
Stops all but the worst of waves/gushes. Even then nowhere near the full gush gets thru.
Bonus' are melon protection, sun protection, you can hear and converse with others and you won't lose your sunnies. For a bit over 100 spendies that's bloody good value. 
EDIT: DunkO I suggested a helmet as it sounds like pressure trauma (ie smacking your head into the water or a wave) has been your problem, not ear infections etc.
Blue Tack or you can get a similar product from the chemist. I carn,t put my head under water without it.
