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Ear Wax Removal

Earwax (also known as cerumen) is normal and beneficial.  It serves multiple purposes in our ears from protection (it has anti-microbial properties) to lubrication. Earwax production varies widely for each person and usually comes out on its own, without the need for intervention.  However, earwax can be a problem if it builds up in the ear canal and causes hearing loss or affects hearing aid use.  In those situations, earwax removal may be recommended.

Our audiologists are experts in multiple wax removal procedures using an ENT binocular microscope along with micro-suction and/or curettage tools (instruments).  Many clients prefer these techniques over the water irrigation method (syringing) and find it more comfortable, however irrigation is also available when needed.


Earwax removal services are included for Elevate Hearing clients who are under warranty with one of our hearing aid service packages.


For clients not covered under our hearing aid service package, there is a flat service fee per appointment, which includes case history, video otoscopy, middle ear pressure test if needed, and earwax removal.  Because the appointment time has been reserved for you, the fee applies whether the wax is completely removed or not (or even if no wax is found) to cover our service and time. 

Earwax Removal

  • Why can earwax be a problem?

    Earwax (also known as cerumen) is normal and beneficial.  It serves multiple purposes in our ears from protection (it has anti-microbial properties) to lubrication. Earwax production varies widely for each person and usually comes out on its own, without the need for intervention (use of Q-tips is not recommended!).  However, earwax can be a problem if it builds up in the ear canal and causes hearing loss or affects hearing aid use.  Please speak with your doctor or one of our audiologists on how to manage your earwax problem.  


    For more information, please go to our Wax Removal section at the bottom of this page.

  • Can I remove my earwax?

    Please do not try to remove earwax yourself.  The saying “Do not put anything smaller than your elbows in your ears” rings true here. Normally, ear wax is produced in the ear canal and then makes its way out the ear canal.  Using a Q-tip to try to “remove” earwax usually results in the earwax moving deeper into the ear canal and even becoming impacted, which may cause a temporary hearing loss.   Physicians usually remove wax using irrigation (syringing) methods with water.  Our audiologists use micro-suction and curettage methods to remove ear wax.  


    For more information, please go to our Wax Removal section at the bottom of this page.

  • What do I do if my ear hurts?

    Please contact your family doctor if your ear(s) hurt.  There should be no pain in your ears so this could be a sign of a medical issue and should be addressed immediately.

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