The disclosed subject matter relates to a system and method for delivery of therapeutic agent to the inner ear. The system includes a plurality of micro-needles which can be delivered to the round window membrane by a delivery device, e.g. catheter, and is capable of controlled penetration of the round window membrane to create temporary and self-closing perforations. In some embodiments the micro-needles are hollow with a lumen for local drug delivery into the perforations. In other embodiments the micro-needles are solid and include a coating of therapeutic agent on exterior surface for delivery into the perforations.