Earwax removal in Hervey Bay.

How much does ear wax removal cost in Hervey Bay?

At Main Street Medical Centre, ear wax removal involves two components:

• GP consultation fee — A standard consultation is required first so your doctor can examine your ears and confirm the cause of your symptoms. Bulk Billed — $0 for anyone with a valid Medicare card.
• Procedure fee — If microsuction or another ear wax removal procedure is performed, a fee of $75 per ear ($150 for both ears) applies. There is no Medicare rebate for this procedure component.

For full details on all fees, visit our fees and Medicare page or call reception on (07) 4325 4000.

Gentle & Non-Invasive

No water or syringing is used.

After the Procedure

Many people notice clearer hearing once the blockage is cleared.

Precise & Gentle

Performed under magnification for accuracy and your safety.

Comfortable

A dry procedure that most patients find comfortable and easy to tolerate.

Individual Assessment

Your GP assesses your ear health and recommends an appropriate method.

Performed by Doctors

Our experienced GPs trained in microsuction ensure personalised, medically appropriate care.

Microsuction (what we use)

Microsuction uses gentle suction under magnification to remove ear wax. It is a dry technique, meaning no water enters the ear canal. Your GP can see exactly what they are doing throughout the procedure, which makes it more controlled and precise.

• A dry technique that does not use water
• Performed under direct vision
• Suitability assessed individually, including with grommets or a perforation
• Suitable for patients with hearing aids
• Your GP advises whether treatment can be performed at the visit

Traditional ear syringing

Ear syringing (also called irrigation) uses pressurised water to flush wax from the ear canal. While it was widely used for many years, it carries a higher risk of complications and is not suitable for all patients.

• Uses water under pressure
• Cannot be used with perforated eardrums
• Higher risk of dizziness and infection
• Less precise than microsuction
• Being replaced in many clinics across Australia

Why a GP assessment matters

Blocked ears can have several causes — not just wax. Starting with a GP consultation helps ensure you receive appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

Common causes of blocked ears include:

• Ear wax impaction
• Middle ear fluid (glue ear)
• Ear infections
• Eustachian tube dysfunction
• Foreign objects or skin conditions

Self-treatment (especially with cotton buds) can push wax deeper or irritate the ear canal. A GP assessment confirms the cause and guides appropriate treatment. No referral is needed — simply book online or call (07) 4325 4000.

What causes ear wax buildup?

Ear wax (cerumen) is a natural substance that protects and lubricates your ears. While it usually exits the ear canal naturally, some people experience buildup that becomes trapped or hardened.

Common causes include:

• Using cotton buds or other objects that push wax deeper
• Narrow ear canals
• Wearing hearing aids or earplugs for long periods
• Skin conditions like eczema
• Overactive glands that produce more wax
• Age-related changes to ear wax consistency

If left untreated, excess wax can lead to temporary hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, or infections. Regular professional ear cleaning can help prevent these issues, particularly for Fraser Coast residents who spend time swimming or surfing.

Signs you may need ear wax removal

Excessive wax can cause a range of symptoms. You may benefit from professional ear cleaning if you notice:

Our doctors can examine your ear canal using an otoscope to determine whether removal is needed and which approach is most appropriate for you. If your symptoms are related to another condition, your GP can arrange further investigation or referral to the appropriate health professional.

Step 1: Book a GP consultation

No referral is needed. We recommend booking a standard appointment with Dr Yan Oo or Dr Chandana Jayasinghe. Your doctor will examine your ears, diagnose the cause of your symptoms, and confirm whether microsuction is suitable. This consultation is bulk billed with a valid Medicare card.

Step 2: Your treatment plan

Based on the examination, your GP may perform microsuction during the same appointment (procedure fee of $75 per ear applies), prescribe medication for infection or inflammation, provide home care advice for mild buildup, or refer to an ENT if a more complex issue is identified. Your GP will advise whether treatment can be completed at the visit or requires preparation and a further appointment.

What to expect during ear wax removal

Your ear cleaning appointment typically takes 15–30 minutes. The process includes:

• Examination with an otoscope to assess the level of buildup
• Gentle microsuction removal under direct vision using magnification
• Normal suction sounds during the process (this is expected and not a cause for concern)
• Final re-check of both ear canals to confirm the wax has been cleared
• Personalised aftercare advice based on your individual needs

How to prepare for your appointment

• Wax-softening drops for 2–3 days beforehand can make removal easier — but check with your GP or pharmacist first, and do not use drops if you have ear pain, discharge, a perforated eardrum, grommets or previous ear surgery. Follow the product’s own instructions for how often and how long to use it.
• Bring your Medicare card and current medication list.
• Avoid cotton buds, fingers, or ear candles — these can push wax deeper.
• Let your doctor know about any history of ear surgery, perforated eardrums, or grommets.

Note: Pre-softening is helpful but not always essential — your GP will advise based on your examination.

Aftercare following ear wax removal

After your removal, most people notice clearer hearing immediately. Your GP will provide personalised aftercare advice, which usually includes:

• Keep ears dry for 24–48 hours and avoid swimming.
• Do not insert anything into the ear canal.
• Wipe only the outer ear with a soft cloth.
• Use drops only as advised by your doctor.
• Book regular appointments if you are prone to wax buildup — many patients benefit from ear cleaning every 6–12 months.

When to seek urgent care

Seek medical help immediately (or call 000 for emergencies) if you experience:

• Severe, sudden ear pain, bleeding or fluid discharge.
• Sudden hearing loss of any degree, or a suddenly blocked ear (even if it feels like wax) — this needs urgent assessment, not a routine wax-removal booking.
• High fever with ear pain or facial weakness.
• Severe dizziness or vomiting.
• Suspected foreign object in the ear.

For after-hours care, visit the Hervey Bay Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (5/166 Boat Harbour Drive, Pialba – open 7 days, 8 am to 8 pm, walk-in, bulk billed), call 13 HEALTH on 13 43 25 84, or for emergencies attend the Hervey Bay Hospital Emergency Department (Cnr Urraween & Nissen Roads, Pialba).