Frequently Asked Questions:
Who Will Be Performing My Treatment?
Unlike some other ear microsuction clinics, our services are only performed by an experienced Audiologist. However, our professionals have a range of skills from a wide range of health and social care backgrounds which we can use to support a healthy lifestyle. Our team profiles can be viewed here.
How Often Should One Have Microsuction To Clear Ear Wax?
This varies between people. Some develop a lot of wax in their ear canals, with subsequent blockage (as often as every 3-6 months). Microsuction can be carried out as often as is necessary as the process does not directly interfere with the structures of the middle ear. In patients with hearing aids, it is recommended to clear the ear canal every 4-6 months if there is a proneness to wax build-up impairing the function of a hearing aid.
Do I Need To Use Softening Ear Drops Prior To Microsuction?
This is not essential although the prior usage of olive oil, almond oil or sodium bicarbonate drops, to soften wax, can make the procedure faster and more comfortable. We can also use olive olive spray or sodium bicarbonate drops during the procedure to soften any hard wax if necessary.
Does Microsuction Hurt?
If ear microsuction is performed by an experienced clinician, the procedure is unlikely to be painful. The main issue that patients notice is the sound of the suction probe, which is reasonably quick to become accustomed to. We use extra fine tips for suction of wax very close to the drum, in order to avoid excessive exposure to suction noise. If you suffer with infection of the outer ear canal then the infection itself could be uncomfortable and so microsuction of the infected ear canal can be painful. However, microsuction of infected debris and wax from the external ear canal is the most effective treatment for external ear infection (otitis externa), along with antibiotic drop useage if the cause is bacterial. You can help reduce some of the discomfort by taking your preferred painkiller an hour prior to attending your appointment.
Is Microsuction Safe?
Ear microsuction 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 Will It Take?
In most cases, it takes up to 15 minutes to perform microsuction on both ears. It is very important to keep as still as you can during the procedure. The ear canal is very small, and it is in very close proximity to the eardrum. Even small movements can take the ear canal image out of focus and prolong the appointment duration.
What Is Ear Wax?
Ear wax is a natural lubricant and antibacterial material produced by sebaceous glands within the ear canal. To read more about ear wax, its causes and treatment options, please go to the NHS website.
I have had ear surgery in the past, is it still okay for me to have microsuction ear wax removal?
Ear microsuction is perfectly suited and highly recommended for patients who have had ear surgery in the past such as mastoidectomy, repair of the eardrum, grommet insertion, stapedectomy and refashioning of the ear canal.
I Have A Perforated Eardrum, Can I Have Microsuction?
Yes. Ear microsuction is the safest method of cleaning ears with perforated eardrums. Patients who have perforated ear drums must not have their ears irrigated with water or syringed.
Can I Fly After Having Ear Microsuction?
Yes, you can fly after having ear microsuction (unless advised not to fly due to other medical reasons).
Are You Covered By Health Insurers?
Yes! We accept Aviva, Axa and Vitality Health Insurance.
Unfortunately insurers rarely cover ear microsuction. So most patients make payment directly to the clinic. We can provide you with an invoice which you can present to your insurer if they allow you to claim back any treatment payments.
What else does Clearly Hearing Clinic offer apart from ear wax removal and microsuction?
We also offer audiological (hearing) consultations for other ear-related problems such as tinnitus and hyperacusis. We can perform audiometry and are also able to refer patients for further investigations to the GP or Cochlear Implant Centers.
