Ear wax can easily become impacted in the ear canal causing pain, loss of hearing, balance upset, and hearing aid feedback (whistling).

Audiologists at HearCare Audiology provides clinically performed earwax removal using modern equipment and evidence-based techniques, carried out by professionals holding the Advanced Certificate in Earwax Management through the CSHBC. That credential ensures your care follows provincial clinical standards for safety and effectiveness. Our team is trained to perform ear cleaning procedures using micro-suction, irrigation and curettage techniques in accordance with all relevant clinical standards. No referral is required.

  • Earwax removal fee is $80
  • Earwax assessment fee is $30

The removal fee includes all necessary equipment, clinical tools, and professional care during the visit. No hidden costs.

Call HearCare Audiology clinic at 778-721-5621 if you’re experiencing blocked ears or muffled hearing. Professional ear wax removal Kelowna is quick and highly effective. You can also book online to choose your preferred appointment time without waiting on hold. Online booking lets you choose your preferred appointment time without waiting on hold.

Why Earwax Matters (and When It Becomes a Problem)

Earwax — medically known as cerumen — plays an important role in ear health. It protects the ear canal by trapping dust, debris, and microorganisms.

But sometimes wax builds up faster than the ear can clear it naturally, leading to impaction.

Data snapshot

StatisticInsight
~10% of adults experience impacted earwax at some pointSource: hearing health studies
Up to 30% of older adults experience recurring buildupCommon in hearing aid users
Cotton swabs are one of the leading causes of impactionThey push wax deeper

In other words: the thing most people use to “clean” their ears is often what creates the blockage.

Common Causes of Wax Build Up

  • Attempted at-home wax removal
  • Narrow ear canals
  • Wearing hearing aids or ear plugs
  • Loss of elasticity and aging
  • Hormonal changes in the body
  • Changes in weather or living and working in a dusty environment
  • Medical conditions

Our Methods of Ear Wax Removal

Micro-Suction

Removing ear wax using micro-suction is the easiest and safest way to have wax removed from your ears. A fine low pressure suction device is inserted into your ear canal to remove the wax. During the procedure, no liquids are used, so there is no mess. The procedure only lasts a few minutes. 

Mechanical (Curettage)

This procedure is performed when the ear wax is closer to the opening of the ear canal. The ear wax is pulled out using special tools such as ear forceps, wax hook and curette. This procedure is also performed dry.

Irrigation

A special ear spray system is used to remove your ear wax. Warm water which is closer to your body temperature is gently sprayed into your ear canal. A container is kept under your ear which collects the water and washed-out ear wax. Traditional irrigation sprays water directly into the ear canal, which can be painful, dangerous and messy. However, our system gently sprays water with three divergent streams which are directed to the ear canal walls which makes this system safe and comfortable.

How to Prepare Before Your Appointment

Preparation is simple — but doing it right can make removal faster and more comfortable.

Recommended preparation steps

  • Use olive oil or mineral oil ear drops for 2–3 days beforehand
  • Apply drops once or twice daily to soften wax
  • Avoid inserting any objects into the ear
  • Bring hearing aids if you wear them

Quick tip:
Softened wax is significantly easier to remove using micro-suction, which often reduces appointment time.

What to Avoid (Common Mistakes That Make Wax Worse)

Here’s where a lot of people accidentally create the problem they’re trying to solve.

Avoid These Home Remedies

Cotton Swabs (Q-tips)
They push wax deeper into the ear canal, increasing impaction risk.

Ear Candles
Despite viral popularity, there is no scientific evidence they remove wax. They can also cause burns.

Hydrogen Peroxide Overuse
Occasional use may soften wax, but frequent use can irritate the ear canal.

DIY Metal Tools from Online Kits
These increase the risk of ear canal injury and eardrum damage.

Clinical guidelines consistently recommend professional removal when symptoms appear rather than repeated home attempts.

Frequently Asked Earwax Removal Questions

Most appointments include a $30 ear assessment and $80 removal procedure, depending on whether wax removal is required.

No referral is needed. You can book directly with the clinic.

Most procedures take 15–30 minutes, including the ear examination and removal.

Yes. Micro-suction is widely considered one of the safest and most precise earwax removal techniques when performed by trained professionals.

If wax impaction is causing the hearing issue, many patients experience immediate improvement after removal.