Ear checks and wax removal when it is safe and appropriate, at Morisset Doctors. Your GP will look in your ear first to check the eardrum and decide on the best approach.
GP consultations are bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card: children 15 and under, patients 65 and over with a pension or Health Care Card, and all other pension and Health Care Card holders.
Use ear drops for a few days before.
Tap to see moreYour GP or pharmacist can recommend drops.
Call receptionWax removal is not suitable with some ear problems.
Tap to see moreSuch as a perforated eardrum or recent ear surgery.
Good to knowThey push wax further in.
Tap to see moreClean only the outer ear.
Ear careIf hearing does not improve, further checks may help.
Tap to see moreYour GP can refer to an audiologist.
Book nowBulk billed for eligible patientsChoose a topic to see what is involved, what it costs, the questions people ask most, and how to book.
Wax is normal and usually clears on its own. It may need removing if it causes blocked ears, reduced hearing, ringing or discomfort, or stops a doctor seeing the eardrum.
Your GP will check first.
Usually, for a few days.
It should not; tell your GP if it is uncomfortable.
Ear irrigation is not suitable if you have a perforated eardrum, grommets, recent ear surgery, an ear infection or only one hearing ear.
Your GP may suggest other options or a referral.
Tell your GP; it depends on your eardrum now.
No; the infection is treated first.
Plain-language information to help you know what to expect and make informed decisions with your GP.
Ear wax protects and cleans the ear canal and usually moves out on its own. Some people make more wax, and hearing aids, earplugs and cotton buds can push it back.
Wax only needs removing if it causes symptoms or stops the eardrum being seen.
Options include softening drops, gentle irrigation with warm water and removal with instruments or suction.
Your GP will check your ear first and choose the safest method.
People with a perforated eardrum, grommets, recent ear surgery, an ear infection or only one hearing ear should not have irrigation.
Other options or a referral will be suggested.
If your hearing does not improve after wax removal, or you have ringing, dizziness or sudden hearing loss, see your GP. Sudden hearing loss needs prompt assessment.
Your GP can refer you to an audiologist or specialist.
They push wax deeper.
With a washer.
To soften wax.
Use ear protection.
Tilt and drain.
If you notice changes.
Book an ear check before any removal.
Book an ear checkTest what you know about ear syringing. Choose an answer to reveal the explanation.
Cotton buds are a good way to clean ears.
They can push wax deeper; clean only the outer ear.
Ear irrigation is suitable for everyone.
Not with a perforated eardrum, grommets, recent ear surgery or infection.
Softening drops are often used before wax removal.
Usually for a few days beforehand.
Information on this page is general, evidence-based and drawn from Australian health authorities and professional guidelines, including:
Morisset Doctors advertises its services in line with the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law and AHPRA's Guidelines for advertising a regulated health service. We do not use testimonials, offer inducements, or make claims about outcomes. Individual results and experiences vary. Please talk to your GP about your own situation.
Often recommended before.
In the ear canal.
Bulk billed consults.
Always first.
Your care can involve more than one person. Choose a part of the care team to see how it fits together.
Ear infections and checks.
Blocked ears and hearing.
Wax and hearing aids.
Every GP at Morisset Doctors can help with ear syringing. These team members list it among their interests.
Skin checks and procedures, geriatric medicine, paediatrics, chronic conditions and men's health.
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Chronic and complex care, geriatrics, mental health, skin cancer medicine and women's health.
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Women's health, children's health, pregnancy care and preventive care. Taking new patients.
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Women's health, paediatrics, geriatric medicine and chronic disease. Taking new patients.
Book nowA little preparation gives you and your doctor more time for what matters. Your doctor will explain the options, benefits and risks, and only examine with your consent.
Book online at any hour, or call reception from 8:00am, Monday to Friday. New patients welcome.
If yours is not here, call (02) 4006 8222 and reception will help.
Consultations are bulk billed for eligible patients.
Usually yes.
Your GP checks first to make sure it is suitable.
Your GP will advise.
Your GP can refer for a hearing test.
No.
