Menu

Ear Wax Removal

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It helps protect the ears by trapping dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Ear wax also has moisturising properties that help stop the ear canal from becoming too dry and irritated.

Sometimes, wax can build up within the canal or become impacted, preventing it from naturally coming out of the ear. Several factors can contribute to this including excessive production, the use of cotton tips (eg “Q tips”) or other objects, unusually shaped ear canals or age. When a person’s wax becomes impacted, it can cause discomfort, hearing loss, or even infection, which is why it’s important to manage wax buildup properly. Never attempt to remove the wax build up at home using any foreign objects, as these can push wax deeper into the canal and make removal harder.

Preparing for the Procedure:

Prior to attending your appointment with Northern Beaches Audiology, we recommend you consider softening the ear wax with over-the-counter ear drops/sprays to enhance both the effectiveness and comfort of the procedure. Appropriate use of softeners will increase the likelihood that the wax can be removed in one visit and reduce the need for any follow-up appointments.

 

How to Use Wax-Softening Drops:

 

  • Use drops for 3–5 days before your appointment.
  • Place 2–3 drops into the affected ear(s) once or twice a day.
  • Gently tilt your head to one side to allow the drops to flow into the ear canal.
  • Keep your head tilted for a few minutes or insert a small cotton ball to prevent the drops from running out.

Please note: If you have a history of ear infections, a perforated eardrum, or any ear surgery, please consult your doctor before using any type of wax softener.

 

Our ears are naturally “self cleaning” and the amount produced varies from person to person.

Cotton tips and ear candles are NEVER recommended as they can lead to further damage and problems within the ear.

Should you experience symptoms of excessive wax build-up, further investigation may be warranted by an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist.

What To Expect During Our Appointments

 

There are a few different techniques we use in the removal of your cerumen/wax buildup, including:

  • Microsuction: A suction device is used to gently remove the wax from the ear canal
  • Manual Removal: Specialised tools such as small metal loop or forceps may be used to extract the wax.

During the procedure, you may hear some noise from the equipment or feel a gentle pulling sensation.

After the removal, you may feel a difference in your hearing or a sensation of ‘lightness’ in the ear. It is normal to experience the following temporary effects:

  • Slight sensitivity to sounds
  • Mild discomfort or a tickling sensation
  • Minor dizziness (usually resolves within a few minutes)

If these symptoms persist or if you develop pain, discharge, or swelling, contact your clinician promptly.

Possible Risks and Complications

While ear wax removal is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of:

  • Incomplete Removal: Sometimes not all the wax can be removed in one visit. In such cases, we may recommend follow-up appointments or continued use of softening drops/sprays.
  • Discomfort or Minor Bleeding: This can occur if the ear canal is particularly sensitive or if the wax is impacted.
  • Temporary Hearing Changes: Hearing may seem different immediately after wax removal, especially if you had a significant blockage.
  • Infection or Irritation: Though rare, some patients may develop an infection or irritation following the procedure.

Your audiologist will take every precaution to minimise these risks and ensure the safest possible experience.

Alternative ways to remove ear wax:

Please be aware there are several alternative ways to remove ear wax. These include –

  • Natural oils – Olive oil, baby oil, and mineral oil are all commonly used to help soften and remove wax. Put a few drops of oil in the affected ear canal, which will soften the wax. These oils are typically non-irritating. After the oil has soaked for a few minutes, you can lie with the affected ear down on a soft cloth to let it drain out.
  • Other liquid solutions – Both hydrogen peroxide and a mixture of vinegar and rubbing alcohol are alternative remedies that can be used to remove earwax. They can soften earwax. They’re generally regarded as safe and effective, as long as the eardrum is fully intact, though some patients may find them irritating. 

 

Methods to avoid:

  • Cotton Buds: Pushing objects like cotton buds into the ear canal can worsen the blockage or damage the eardrum.
  • Ear candling – This is not a recommended treatment. Ear candling has been used in the past in place of ear irrigation. With this technique, someone inserts a hollow, lit candle into the ear canal. Theoretically, the heat from the flame will create a vacuum seal, causing the earwax to adhere to the candle. It’s not effective, and can result in further injuries, including ear canal obstructions and eardrum perforations. A burn injury is a potential risk as well.

 

Follow-up care:

If we are unable to remove all the wax in one session, we may advise you to continue using softening drops at home and return for a follow-up appointment. We will also provide guidance on how to prevent future build-up.

Should you be interested in booking in with one of our qualified clinicians for wax removal, feel free to contact the clinic at [email protected] or on (02) 9982 3439.

Get In Touch Today

Feel free to contact the clinic to arrange a full diagnostic hearing assessment with one of our audiologists. 

Get in Touch Today

Level 2, Suite 4205, 834 Pittwater Road
Dee Why Grand Commercial Tower NSW 2099

Office opening hours are between 8:30am to 4:30pm
Please call to make an appointment.

Speak to us

02 9982 3439

Contact & Location

Services

Our Team

Resources

Copyright © 2024, Northern Beaches Audiology

Services

Our Team

For Patients

Office opening hours are between 8:30am to 4:30pm
Please call to make an appointment.

Contact & Location

Christmas & New Year Closure

Our office will be closed from the 16th of December till the 5th of January, if you have any enquires you may send us an email and it’ll be answered during this period.