Ear Microsuction Service

This service is now available at our pharmacy.

Ear wax is healthy in normal amounts and serves as a self-cleansing agent with protective, lubricating and antibacterial properties. For the majority, it does not cause any problems and falls out naturally. Various factors can effect ear wax production, such as diet, genetics, ageing and anatomy.

Problems that can be associated with wax accumulation can include:

• hearing loss
• ear pain
• itching
• odour or discharge
• dizziness

Microsuction

Microsuction is a wax removal technique using a precision, low pressure suction apparatus to gently and safely suck un-wanted or obstructing skin cells and wax from the external auditory meatus (ear canal). It avoids touching the sensitive area around the ear canal and evades contact with the eardrum.

We use our Tympahealth system which provides magnification so that the tip of the fine cannula (the suction tube) is always under direct vision.

This technique contrasts with ear syringing where high pressure water is squirted into the ear to dislodge the wax. Microsuction is a more precise and gentle technique than ear syringing.

Why is microsuction better?

Compared to traditional forms of wax removal – ear drops and irrigation or syringing, microsuction is:

• Safer
• Quicker
• Cleaner and neater
• Generally better tolerated, with less side effects
• More effective and likely to need only one appointment
• Doesn’t need weeks of waiting for drops to soften the wax
• Microsuction may still be possible for people who struggle to use oil prior to treatment

What to expect from ear microsuction

Private ear wax clearance using microsuction, is provided by specially trained pharmacy teams who will talk you through the procedure, show you the equipment and ask you to sign a consent form before we start.

The microsuction process can be noisy and occasionally make you feel dizzy. This usually passes within a short while. If you are having the procedure undertaken on both ears, it will take up to 30 minutes.

How it works

Everything you need to know

Prior to the procedure

>It is important that you soften the ear wax by putting 1-2 sprays of olive oil (Earol)  into the relevant ear/ears, twice daily, for three to five days prior to your appointment.

This is available to purchase at Markeaton Pharmacy.

Please note that if you have not done this, and the wax is too hard to remove, you may still be charged for the procedure.

During the appointment

• A comprehensive medical history will be taken
• Microscopic examination of the inner ear canals and ear drums
• Gentle removal of the earwax with a surgical Microsuction unit. The Pharmacy team will use our Tympahealth system to exam your ear. There may be an occasional mild ‘pop’ as the wax is sucked through the probe. Generally, the appointment will be painless.
• Better hearing and healthy ears

Post treatment advice

Typically, no further action is required after the treatment and a patient can resume all normal activity immediately after the procedure.

Treatment Prices

• Consultation fee (no wax found/microsuction not needed): ask for price
• Ear Microsuction service: ask for price
• You will be required to pay in full at the pharmacy immediately prior to the procedure taking place.
• The cost will include one follow up visit within 7-10 days after 1st visit- if we feel a further follow up is required.

If we are unable to complete your treatment on your first visit, you may be offered a further appointment within 4 weeks of your initial consultation, free of charge. If we are unable to complete a successful procedure you will be returned to the care of your GP who can refer you for further specialist help.