Abstract: Apparatus for use in removing paraffin from a well tubing string above a wireline operated subsurface safety valve assembly installed in the tubing string and its method of operation. The safety valve assembly controls the flow of production oil and/or gas fluids through the tubing string. During normal production operations a wireline connects the paraffin cutting apparatus to surface facilities which include apparatus for maintaining sufficient tension on the wireline to hold the safety valve assembly in open position and for releasing tension on the wireline to permit the safety valve assembly to close. The paraffin cutter apparatus contains means for releasably connecting it to the safety valve assembly. Manipulation of the wireline actuates means on the paraffin cutting apparatus to open an equalizer port in the tubing string. Paraffin cut from the tubing string wall is removed by flow of production fluids through the open equalizer port.