Hear Better with Expert Treatment for Ear Canal Conditions

Ear canal stenosis is a narrow ear canal. In most cases, a person is born with this condition. It can also be caused by repeated ear canal infections that cause scarring. 

Ear canal exostoses are benign (noncancerous) bony growths in the ear canal. Swimming in cold water often causes them. If not properly diagnosed and treated, people with this condition may have recurrent ear canal infections or even hearing loss. 

Our ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists have successfully treated hundreds of people with ear canal problems. We offer the latest treatment options to get you feeling — and hearing — better.  

What Is Surfer’s Ear?

How Is Ear Canal Stenosis or Exostoses Diagnosed? 

 Your specialist will begin by completing a comprehensive physical exam, asking you questions about your symptoms and health history. Engaging in certain activities — such as surfing and swimming — can increase your risk of developing ear canal exostoses. We may use a microscope to closely examine your ear canal and eardrum. A hearing test might also be performed to assess any hearing loss. 

If your ENT doctor suspects you may have ear canal stenosis or exostoses, we recommend you undergo a computed tomography (CT) scan. This imaging study will allow us to clearly see inside your ear canal and accurately diagnose the condition. 

What Are Ear Canal Stenosis or Exostoses Treatments? 

Some people with ear canal stenosis won’t have any problems and won’t need treatment. However, if the narrow ear canal causes hearing loss, recurrent ear canal infections or other problems, your specialist may recommend surgery to widen your ear canal. Some people with moderate to severe hearing loss may need a hearing device. 

Exostoses won’t go away on their own. If your ear canal exostoses are causing hearing loss or other symptoms, your specialist will likely recommend surgery to remove the growths.