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Ear & hearing
Surfer’s ear (exostoses)
Exostoses are bony growths of the external auditory canal as a result of long term exposure to cold water and wind.
Clinical content by the surgeons of Sydney ENT Clinic · Updated October 2026
Most of the time either prevention of water entering the ear canal or ensuring any water is removed after swimming will manage the condition adequately.
Occasionally when there are recurrent infections, constant blockages, and even hearing loss, surgical intervention is required. This often occurs when the canal itself is narrowed by more than 80%.
Please contact us for a formal assessment, and further information regarding simple control measures or whether the need for more interventional management is required.
An image showing significant bony narrowing of the external auditory canal. The ear drum cannot be seen due to these growths.
Tested at Kogarah on the day
Hearing tests with Precision Hearing are available in Suite 5 at the time of your appointment, and CT or MRI of the ear can be arranged at Lumus or Castlereagh Imaging within a few hundred metres of the clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Can surfer’s ear be prevented?
Yes, to a large degree. Exostoses are driven by repeated exposure of the ear canal to cold water and wind, so the prevention is a physical barrier: well-fitting ear plugs (custom-moulded plugs are best for regular surfers and swimmers) and, in cold conditions, a neoprene hood or a cap that covers the ears. Realistically, anyone who spends years with their head under cold water will develop some bony growth even with plugs — but consistent protection markedly slows the progression, and it is the only measure that works.
Do I need surgery for surfer’s ear?
Usually not. Most people with exostoses need no treatment beyond protecting their ears and keeping the canal clear of wax and water. Surgery is reserved for advanced cases where the canal has narrowed enough that water and wax become trapped and conservative measures are no longer preventing blockage and recurrent infections.
Do I have to stop surfing after surgery for exostoses?
Absolutely not. The whole purpose of the operation is to get you back in the surf, enjoying the water, with an ear canal that drains and dries properly. You will need to keep the ear dry while it heals and then use ear plugs afterwards to slow the growth coming back.
Does surfer’s ear cause permanent hearing loss?
No. Exostoses cause a conductive hearing loss only when the canal is nearly closed or blocked by trapped wax and water, and that hearing returns once the canal is cleared or opened. The inner ear is not affected.
Who treats this at Kogarah
Complex otology, cochlear implantation and lateral skull base: Dr Sean Flanagan, Darlinghurst.
For GPs
Send the referral directly to the specialist’s rooms. If the right surgeon isn’t obvious, send it to any of us and we will place it.
Referral information