Last Updated on August 9, 2025 by Jonathan Javid Au.D.
Hearing Aid Dome Stuck in Your Ear? Here’s What to Do
Have you ever removed your hearing aid only to notice the dome is missing?
One of the most common — and unnerving — hearing aid problems is when the dome falls off and becomes lodged inside the ear canal.
This situation can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and potentially risky if handled incorrectly.
If you suspect a dome is in your ear, do not try to dig it out yourself.
Attempting removal without the right tools can push it deeper, scratch your ear canal, or damage your eardrum.
Instead, follow the safe steps outlined below.
Signs You Might Have a Dome in Your Ear
- You notice the dome is missing from your hearing aid.
- A feeling of fullness or blockage in one ear.
- Muffled hearing in the affected ear.
- Occasional mild discomfort or itching.
Should You Try to Remove It Yourself?
Only consider self-removal if the dome is very shallow and clearly visible.
If a spouse or family member can easily see the dome with a flashlight and it’s right at the ear opening, it may be possible to gently grasp it with clean tweezers.
Otherwise, do not attempt removal.
Deep or blind attempts can push the dome further inside, increase the risk of infection, and make extraction harder.
Where to Get Professional Help
- Your Audiologist – Many offer free dome removal if you purchased your hearing aids from them. They have specialized tools and magnification equipment.
- Primary Care or Urgent Care – If an audiologist is unavailable, most clinics can remove a dome safely.
- ENT Specialist – For difficult cases or repeated issues, an ear, nose, and throat doctor can help.
Does the Dome Need to Be Removed Immediately?
While a dome won’t usually damage your ear canal or eardrum, it should still be removed promptly — ideally the same day or within a few days.
The longer it stays in, the more likely earwax will build up around it, making removal harder.
Does Dome Removal Hurt?
When done by a professional, dome removal is usually quick and painless.
Audiologists often use a microscope for a clear view and alligator forceps to gently grasp and remove the dome without touching the sensitive canal walls.
Can You Keep Wearing Your Hearing Aid?
No — wearing your hearing aid in that ear can push the dome deeper and make removal harder.
If needed, you can temporarily use your other hearing aid until the dome is removed.
How to Prevent a Dome from Falling Off in Your Ear
- Use the Correct Dome Size & Type – Always use domes made for your hearing aid model.
- Insert Carefully – Follow your audiologist’s instructions for insertion and removal to avoid pulling the dome off.
- Clean & Replace Regularly –
Clean domes weekly and replace them when worn out. - Consider an Earmold or ITE Aid – If domes fall off repeatedly,
switching to a custom earmold may solve the problem.
FAQs
What happens if I leave a dome in my ear for weeks?
Earwax buildup, infection risk, and increased difficulty of removal are possible. It’s best to remove it as soon as possible.
Can a stuck dome cause permanent hearing loss?
No, not if removed promptly, but prolonged blockage can temporarily reduce hearing and cause discomfort.
How often should I replace domes?
Every 1–2 months, or sooner if they become loose, discolored, or damaged.
Final Thoughts
If your hearing aid dome gets stuck in your ear, stay calm — it’s a fixable problem.
Avoid DIY deep removal attempts, get professional help, and follow preventative steps to avoid future issues.
When in doubt, call your audiologist first — they deal with this more often than you think.