CERA Ear Clinic

Foreign Object Removal

When Something is Stuck in the Ear, Fast Care Matters

Foreign objects stuck in the ear can be painful, frightening, and stressful.

Emergency rooms lack the appropriate equipment for removal and repeated attempts to remove an object without the proper tools can traumatize the ear canal, push the object deeper, or injure the eardrum.

Whether it’s a bead, cotton swab, or even an insect, at CERA Ear Clinic, we can guarantee the foreign object will be safely extracted within one visit.

Our technique uses a high-powered microscope (the same kind used in ear surgery) to guide the removal of foreign objects from the ear canal for both adults and children without long waits or pricy hospital bills.

Book Foreign Object Removal
Ear specialist performing microscope-guided foreign object removal from the ear at CERA Ear Clinic in Chicago
Gentle, microscope-guided care for objects stuck in the ear canal.

Why Choose CERA Ear Clinic for Foreign Object Removal?

Emergency rooms refer patients to us

Emergency rooms end up referring patients to us as they do not have the tools or ENT skillset to safely remove complex foreign objects from the ear. Skip the 8 hour wait and come directly to CERA instead.

CERA uses a high-powered binocular microscope (the same kind used in the operating room), and fine instruments for safe, precise removal.

Ear-only focus

CERA exclusively focuses on ear care - foreign body removal, ear cleanings, impacted wax removal, and the treatment of ear infections.

Our providers are board certified, ENT trained, and have extensive experience removing foreigns objects from the ear.

Adult & Pediatric Care

The providers at CERA Ear Clinic manage a wide spectrum of foreign body removals, from intricate pediatric cases (e.g., beads) to complex adult presentations (e.g., insects). Patient comfort is prioritized through the use of individualized, age-appropriate techniques and transparent patient communication.

Same-Day Bookings, Transparent Pricing

$200 fixed appointment cost saves you an expensive and uncertain visit to the ER or urgent care.

Same-day or next-day appointments when available.

How We Remove Foreign Objects From the Ear

1
Focused Ear Exam

We take a careful history and perform a microscope-guided ear exam to locate the object, and assess and visualize the ear canal.

2
Choosing the Safest Technique

Removals are conducted under a high-powered microscope and depending on the object, we may use microsuction or other precision instruments. We avoid techniques like irrigation or flushing, which could increase the risk for injury or complications.

3
Comfort, Safety & Aftercare

After removal, we re-examine the ear and provide clear aftercare instructions.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Adults & Teens

You’ll meet with the provider for a focused conversation about what happened and what you are feeling, followed by a microscope-guided ear exam and removal. Most visits are short, and many patients return to normal activities the same day.

Children

We explain each step in kid-friendly language and keep caregivers close. Younger children may sit in a parent’s lap or be gently swaddled to help them hold still while we work.

“Our priority is to make the experience as calm and positive as possible—for both child and parent.”

Foreign Object Removal FAQs

How quickly should I be seen if there’s something in the ear?
Most foreign bodies should be evaluated as soon as reasonably possible. If you have severe pain and bleeding please call prior to booking an appointment to discuss the details with a provider.
Can I try to remove it at home?
Home attempts with cotton swabs, tweezers or irrigation can push the object deeper or injure the ear canal. Professional removal with proper visualization ensures no damage to the.
Will my child need to be sedated?
No - children can be treated awake with proper positioning and preparation. If a child is particularly ear defensive the swaddle technique may be utilized with parental consent.
Do you also remove ear wax?
Yes. CERA provides complimentary microsuction ear wax removal for any patients that are having a foreign object removed if indicated on the same or opposite ear.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with CERA Ear Clinic without a referral as you do not need to go through insurance.

Ready to Get Help?

If you suspect something is stuck in your or your child’s ear, don’t wait. Our team at CERA Ear Clinic is here to help.