Cerumen, more commonly known as ear wax, is produced by a gland in the ear and is the ear’s natural lubricant.  It is actually very healthy to have some wax in the ear.  However, for some patients, the ear either overproduces or is unable to naturally rid itself of the old wax (typically due to the use of Q-tips).  In such cases, the wax needs to be removed in order to get an accurate hearing test or to allow for the proper function of the hearing aids.  This is done under a microscope with the use of suction and other assistive tools and can be done in the office.