Earwax Removal

Signs that you may need professional wax removal include decreased hearing, ear fullness, discomfort, itching, or tinnitus. If you can see wax in your ear canal or if cotton swabs aren't helping (and shouldn't be used!), it's time for professional evaluation and removal.

Yes, when performed by a qualified audiologist using proper equipment and techniques. Dr. Marotto uses specialized tools and visualization equipment to ensure safe, thorough removal without damaging your ear canal or eardrum. This is much safer than attempting removal at home with cotton swabs or other objects.

Professional earwax removal should be comfortable when performed correctly. You may feel some pressure or hear sounds during the procedure, but it shouldn't be painful. We use gentle techniques and take breaks as needed to ensure your comfort throughout the process.

Cotton swabs often push wax deeper into the ear canal, creating impactions and potentially damaging delicate ear structures. They can also remove protective wax that your ears need, leading to irritation and increased wax production. Professional removal is much safer and more effective.

This varies by individual. Some people produce more wax than others or have narrow ear canals that trap wax more easily. We'll assess your specific situation and recommend an appropriate maintenance schedule, which might range from every few months to annually.

Absolutely! Excessive earwax can significantly reduce hearing by blocking sound from reaching your eardrum. Many patients notice immediate improvement in hearing clarity after professional wax removal, sometimes dramatically so if the blockage was substantial.