Unfortunately, repeated ear infections cause calcification and sometimes, yep, this does need to be done. I believe it's called an ablation.
I've known folks though who switched to a food with no corn, wheat or soy and had ear infections stop, almost like magic. But, if your dog is that far, I'd be cautious about delaying long.
ETA: Labs are notorious for allergies/insensitivities and quite often to food. Typically a food allergy or insensitivity will show in the skin, the ears or the coat. This is why often a change of diet, moving away from the ingredient I mentioned, can help
A house without fur is not a home.
Glenda
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