Clinical Earwax Removal in Weston, FL

What is Cerumen (Earwax) and Why Does It Build Up?

Cerumen, commonly known as earwax, is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It serves important protective functions: trapping dust and debris, preventing bacteria and fungi from entering the ear, and lubricating the ear canal. Normally, earwax migrates outward naturally and falls out on its own.

However, some people produce excessive earwax or have ear canals that don't allow for natural migration. Factors that can contribute to earwax buildup include:

• Narrow or curved ear canals
• Hearing aids or earplugs that block natural migration
• Excessive hair in the ear canal
• Age (earwax becomes drier and harder with age)
• Skin conditions affecting the ear canal

Signs You Need Professional Earwax Removal

If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have impacted earwax that requires professional removal:

• Muffled hearing - Sounds seem dull or distant
• Ear fullness - Sensation of something blocking your ear
• Tinnitus - Ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ear
• Itching - Persistent itch in the ear canal
• Hearing aid feedback - Whistling or feedback from hearing aids

When to Seek Medical or Urgent Care

Do not assume every blocked or muffled ear is caused by wax. Seek prompt medical evaluation for ear pain, drainage or bleeding. Sudden hearing loss or hearing that worsens quickly should be treated as a medical emergency rather than a routine wax-removal visit.

See the AAO-HNS earwax guidance and the NIDCD guidance on sudden hearing loss.

Our Safe Removal Method

At Movac Hearing, Dr. Viviana Martinez uses professional-grade equipment and techniques to safely remove earwax using curette removal.

Curette Removal

Using specialized instruments called curettes, Dr. Martinez gently removes earwax under direct visualization. This method is ideal for visible, accessible earwax and provides precise control. Dr. Martinez will examine your ears first to assess the type and location of the earwax, your ear anatomy, and any underlying conditions before proceeding with removal.

Why Professional Removal is Safer Than Cotton Swabs

Many people attempt to clean their ears with cotton swabs, but this practice can be dangerous and counterproductive:

• Pushes wax deeper - Cotton swabs often push earwax further into the ear canal, making impaction worse
• Risk of injury - Can cause cuts, abrasions, or even perforate the eardrum
• Incomplete removal - Only removes surface wax, leaving deeper impaction
• Infection risk - Can introduce bacteria or cause irritation

A clinical visit allows Dr. Martinez to examine the ear, identify factors that may change the approach and select an appropriate method. As with any procedure, risks and comfort vary; some patients may need medical referral instead of in-office removal.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Your earwax removal appointment will begin with a thorough examination of your ears using an otoscope or microscope. This allows Dr. Martinez to assess the type and extent of earwax buildup and determine the best removal approach.

During the procedure:

• You'll be seated comfortably in a treatment chair
• Dr. Martinez will use magnification to clearly see your ear canal
• The removal method will be performed gently and carefully
• The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes
• Tell Dr. Martinez immediately if you feel pain or dizziness so she can stop and reassess

After removal, Dr. Martinez will examine your ears again to ensure all earwax has been removed and that your eardrums are healthy.

Post-Procedure Care

If wax was causing your symptoms, you may notice a change after removal. To maintain healthy ears and reduce future buildup:

• Avoid using cotton swabs or inserting anything into your ears
• If you wear hearing aids, clean them regularly to prevent earwax buildup
• Consider periodic professional cleanings if you're prone to excessive earwax

If your hearing still seems muffled once the wax is out, a hearing evaluation can help assess other possible causes.

Insurance and Contact Information

We accept more than 25 plans, including most Medicare Advantage plans, Florida Medicaid and major commercial plans. Many cover professional earwax removal when medically necessary. Ask us to verify your benefits before your visit.

For safe home habits and warning signs, read At-Home Ear Care: When to Seek Professional Help.

If you are experiencing possible earwax symptoms or need clinical ear cleaning, call to discuss an appointment. We can explain what to bring and whether another type of care may be more appropriate.