Ear discharge thats not infected

Has anyone had a pup with an ear that drains brown gook and doesn’t seem to be infected ( no pain or irritation). This has been going on for a year and one vet I took him to said he needs micro surgery for a tiny spot(?) in his ear canal. Other vets don’t see it? It doesn’t seem to smell bad either. Making an appt with another vet this week but I thought I’d ask if anyone has had any problem like this first. It’s my Beagle/ Basset mix so his ears aren’t that long, more like a beagle’s. Thanks in advance for any advise.