Steps for a Successful Ear Wax Removal Appointment
We are happy to offer ear wax removal services to patients aged 5 years and over.
Please be aware, despite our best efforts, due to the variability in wax composition and depth inside the ear canal, the audiologist may not be able to remove all wax in one appointment. A full appointment fee will be charged, per appointment.
Please read our wax removal preparation steps to ensure a successful wax removal appointment.
If there is no wax present in your ears, you will have a consultation with the audiologist and the full appointment fee will still be charged.
Step 1: Confirm Presence of Ear Wax Before Booking
Prior to booking an ear wax removal appointment, we recommend you confirm the presence of wax in the ear canal with your family physician or pharmacist. You do not need a doctor referral to have ear wax removed.
Step 2: Soften Ear Wax Prior to Your Appointment
We recommend patients aged 12+ soften their ear wax prior to their appointment using a wax removal drop. This may increase the likelihood of removal and decrease physical discomfort during the process. Any over-the-counter wax removal drop designed for dissolving ear wax can be used; however, we recommend using our Audiologist Choice Drops twice a day for four consecutive days prior to your appointment. Audiologist Choice drops can be purchased at our clinic.
If using olive oil or mineral oil to soften ear wax, please ensure 2 weeks of use, twice a day prior to your appointment.
*Important Note: Ear wax softening is not recommended for patients with perforated eardrums. Audiologist Choice Drops is intended for occasional use as an aid to soften, loosen, and remove excessive earwax and should not be used on children under the age of 12. Please contact your family physician for medical direction.
Ear Wax Removal Methods
At Clayton Park Audiology our registered audiologists have been formally trained in various wax removal techniques, however, our clinic specializes in microsuction.
Microsuction is considered the safest method of ear wax removal. Microsuction allows for constant observation of the ear canal and does not involve the use of water pressure which reduces the risk of infection, eardrum perforation, and vertigo.
Depending on the consistency and depth of your ear wax, our clinicians may recommend another form of removal such as manual curettage, forceps or irrigation.
Wax removal by irrigation/syringing is not recommended for patients with the following:
- Perforated eardrum or history of perforation
- History of ear surgery (i.e. pressure equalizing tubes; mastoid cavity)
- Are immunocompromised due to increased risk of infection