Microsuction

Microsuction involves gently sucking excessive earwax from the ear canal using a fine tube attached to a suction unit. It does not involve the use of water, like more traditional methods of ear syringing. It is clean, safe, and quick, and usually a far more comfortable experience than other methods of earwax removal. 

Irrigation (syringing)

Irrigation is a more traditional method of wax removal which uses a gentle, regulated flow of tepid water to flush out the ear canal. It remains a safe and effective way of removing wax when performed correctly. It is usually a preferred method if the wax is either very soft or close to the eardrum.  

Do I need a GP referral?

No, however you will be required to fill out a medical questionnaire to make sure that there are no reasons why we should not proceed.

Should I use olive oil before the appointment?

Yes please. Wax can become very hard and stick to the skin inside your ear canal. You will find the procedure much more comfortable if you have used olive oil a few days before the appointment. Usually, a few drops in the effected ear(s) for 2 or 3 days is enough. It is important to lie down on your side for a least 15 minutes to allow the oil to soak into the wax. 

Not all earwax is hard, so if you have not had time to use olive oil it does not necessarily mean that we cannot carry out the wax removal. If you are in any doubt, please book a free pre-treatment consultation. 

Your wax removal will be carried out by a qualified Audiologist with almost 20 years’ experience in microsuction. Approved by University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust Allied Health Professionals and Health Care Scientists Extended Roles Group. 

RCCP & HCPC registered Audiologist

Why do we produce earwax?

Earwax is a naturally occurring substance produced by the glands in the outer two thirds of your ear canal. Its purpose is to clean and protect your ear canal by trapping dirt, dust, and moisture. 

The skin in your ear canal grows in an outwardly spiralling direction and is designed to bring out any collected debris, as new wax is produced further down inside the ear canal. For this reason, you should never push anything inside your ear canal, otherwise you are working against nature. Normal washing around your ears whilst bathing or showering should clean away any wax at the edges of your ear canal. It is not recommended to use cotton buds to clean inside your ear canal. 

Earwax also has antibacterial properties and without it the skin in your ear can become dry and cracked, which could lead to soreness or infection. Therefore, it is very healthy to have a small amount of wax in your ear canal.

From time to time, you may find an uncomfortable build-up of excessive wax. 

Symptoms of excessive earwax can include the following:

• Earache or discomfort
• A feeling of moisture or fullness
• Temporary hearing loss
• Tinnitus (usually a ringing or buzzing sound)

If untreated excessive earwax becomes very hard and much more difficult to remove, therefore you should start treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated it could lead to infection. 

Start by using a few drops of olive oil in the affected ear(s). It is important to lie down on your side for a good 15 minutes to allow the oil to soak into the wax. Sometimes your symptoms will initially get worse before they get better. 

If your ears do not naturally clear earwax, then you should arrange an appointment to have the wax removed. Click here to book an appointment for wax removal. 

Symptoms of an ear infection can include the following:

• Discharge from your ear, which often has an unpleasant odour
• Severe pain
• Hearing loss
• Dizziness or vertigo

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should visit your G.P as soon as possible.