Labyrinthectomy for unilateral Menière's disease may be complicated by persistent unsteadiness postoperatively. The aim of this study is to identify the unfavourable factors in recovery following labyrinthectomy. Twenty-one patients gave a detailed history and underwent neuro-otological, ophthalmic and cardiovascular examination, as well as psychological and psychiatric assessment. Sedentary occupations, external health locus of control, extraverted personality, and an anxious and/or depressed psychiatric state were associated with poor post-operative recovery. These factors therefore should be taken into consideration in the pre-operative assessment and post-operative rehabilitation of labyrinthectomy patients.