FAQs
What is the difference between microsuction and ear syringing?
Syringing is the traditional method of wax removal. It involves water being injected into the ear canal at high pressure, with the aim of trying to get behind the wax to force it out as the water seeps out of the ear canal. There are several problems associated with this method of wax removal. Micro suction is a procedure that uses a vacuum to gently remove any excess wax from your ears. It is the gold standard procedure and one of the most effective services for cleaning your ears.
| Ear syringing | Microsuction |
|---|---|
| The procedure is performed ‘blind’ (without visualisation of the full ear), so there is high risk of clinical error | There is always a clear view throughout the procedure which reduces the risk of clinical error |
| Involves water entering the ear canal – a high risk of ear infection | Reduced risk of infection. |
| High pressure of water injection – high risk of eardrum perforation | Careful procedure ensures no damage to ear drum. |
| The procedure cannot be performed if there is infection or perforation present | The procedure can be carried out if there is a current ear infection or perforation. |
| A heavy-handed procedure – a high per risk of discomfort/pain | Gentle procedure with less risk of pain or discomfort |
| Not all wax is removed | 100% of wax is removed although this may take more than one appointment |
What is an otoscope?
An otoscope is a small instrument with a light attached that is used to see inside the ear to view the ear canal and ear drum. The otoscopy equipment that we use is attached to a mobile handheld device that enables us to take photos and videos for you to view before and after the procedure.
What will happen at my appointment?
Your appointment will take approximately 15-30 minutes.
We will ask you a few questions about your general health and your past medical history and we will ask you to sign a consent form.
We will examine your ears using the otoscope and take photos to show you before and after pictures.
If there is wax present, we will remove it using the micro suction.
If we are unable to remove the wax due to it being too hard or impacted, we will arrange a follow up appointment.
Once the procedure is complete, we advise that you do not swim or submerge your ears underwater for the next 24 hours. It is ok to shower.
Do I need to apply drops before hand?
Mediclear advise to use olive oil every day for 3 days before treatment. Although this is not essential, it will help to soften the wax making it easier to remove and can make the procedure quicker. We may also use olive oil spray or sodium bicarbonate drops during the procedure to soften and break up any hard wax if necessary.
Does it hurt?
Not usually, however it can be noisy, and your ear canal skin is sensitive, so we do everything we can to avoid touching it with the suction end.
Is the procedure safe?
Ear wax micro suction is the safest and the most effective procedure for examination and treatment of the ear when performed by experienced and well-trained clinicians.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure should take around 30 minutes. If all the wax cannot be removed on the first attempt, a follow-up appointment will be necessary.
Can I have the procedure done if I have an infection?
Yes, we can perform micro suction if you have an ear infection.
Can I have the procedure done if I wear a hearing aid?
Yes. In fact, hearing aids are one of the leading causes for cause of wax becoming impacted.
I have a perforated eardrum; can I have microsuction?
Yes. Ear micro suction is the safest method of cleaning ears with perforated ear drums.
Can the procedure restore my hearing?
A build-up of ear wax can cause hearing loss and once removed can significantly improve hearing.
I have a flight booked; can I still fly after having microsuction?
Yes, it is safe to you to fly after having ear micro suction procedure.
Are cotton buds safe to use?
Many people use cotton buds to ‘clean’ their ears of excess wax, but you’re more likely to cause earwax blockage and further issues. Rather than removing the earwax, it instead pushes it further into the ear canal, which leads to a build-up, or impacted earwax.
Cotton buds can pose a lot of unnecessary risk to your ear health and are not ear cleaners – it can push the wax further into the ear canal and put pressure on, or even damage, your eardrum.
Is there an age restriction?
Currently Mediclear are only able to perform micro suction on adults however, we can carry out an ear examination on children aged 5 years and over.
Do you offer home visits?
Mediclear offer home visits at a cost of £70 for both ears. If there is no wax found, then we will only charge a consultation fee of £30
What areas do you cover?
We cover areas across Essex and London. Please contact us for further information.