Microsuction is almost always a ‘same day’ treatment. The ear wax and the ear canal remain in clear vision for the practitioner during the procedure. This improves efficiency of the clearance and reduces risk. Most ear cleaning by microsuction is 100% successful on the first time, with minimal or no oil installation required in advance.

You will have a digital video health check of the ear canal before and after treatment. You can also receive a hearing test to ensure that the hearing is normal after removal of the ear wax.

Removal of ear wax by microsuction is usually comfortable, but the vacuum can be noisy. If the wax is very hard or stuck to the eardrum, there can occasionally be some discomfort. Should you find the procedure uncomfortable, please let your practitioner know. When this is the case we may advise for you to use some drops or oil to soften the ear wax and return for another visit.

You can read a bit more about the safety of microsuction here.

Why do our ears get blocked with wax? Read more here.

Irrigation follows much the same procedure as microsuction, with a digital health check performed before the process begins, known as a video otoscopy.

Irrigation cannot be performed if the ears have been operated on, have a perforation or any open abrasions. Clients with mastoid cavities are also excluded from having irrigation. We cannot offer Ear Irrigation if you have diabetes.

The process uses a gentle, steady stream of water to dislodge the wax. A basin is held under the ear to catch the expelled wax and water.

The ear wax and the ear canal remain in clear vision for the practitioner during the procedure with wax successfully removed almost 100% of the time.

Irrigation is quieter and less invasive than microsuction and is probably a better choice if your wax is very hard or stuck to the eardrum where microsuction can occasionally cause some discomfort.

Why do our ears get blocked with wax? Read more here.

If you’re not in our area, you can search a national database of independent practitioners from this link.

When should I consider Irrigation?

• Hearing aid users who generate lots of wax.
• Quieter than microsuction.
• Better than microsuction if you are nervous or anxious about the process.
• More efficient at removing impacted or deep ear wax.
• Preferred if wax is sticky or softer, particularly when ear drops have been overused.