Preparing for Your Microsuction Ear Wax Removal Appointment

 

At Clearly Hearing, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy ears and optimal hearing. If you’ve scheduled an ear wax removal appointment with us, congratulations on taking the right step towards better ear health! To ensure your experience is smooth and comfortable, we have prepared a comprehensive guide followed by a list of Frequently Asked Questions to help you prepare for your upcoming appointment at Clearly Hearing.

Our team consists of certified and experienced professionals specializing in ear care. You can trust our audiologists and nurse practitioners to provide the highest quality care for

your ears. We prioritize your comfort and well-being, and we encourage you to read reviews and seek recommendations to reassure yourself of our commitment to excellence.

 

Preparing for Your Appointment:

 Signs such as earache or pain, partial hearing loss, ringing sensation in the ears, dizziness, or itching in the ear canal may indicate excessive ear wax, our highly skilled professionals at Clearly Hearing are here to assist you and can tell you if it is caused by wax, or advise you on how to overcome these symptoms if it’s not. 

To ensure a smooth and successful ear wax removal procedure, it’s important to prepare in advance. Here are some essential steps to follow:

a. Gather relevant medical information: Prior to your appointment, compile any relevant medical history related to your ears, such as previous infections, surgeries, or conditions. This information will assist our professionals in tailoring the best possible care for you.

b. List your symptoms and concerns: Take a few moments to jot down any symptoms you’ve experienced, such as pain, hearing loss, or discomfort. Additionally, note any specific concerns or questions you may have for our professionals. This will ensure that all your worries are addressed during your appointment.

c. Avoid self-cleaning: We strongly advise against attempting to remove ear wax at home. Using cotton swabs or other objects can potentially push the wax deeper into the ear canal or cause injury. Rest assured, our experts at Clearly Hearing are trained in safe and effective ear wax removal techniques.

d. Communicate your concerns: During your appointment, don’t hesitate to openly discuss any worries or fears you may have. We are here to listen and address your concerns, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.

 

What to Expect During Your Clearly Hearing Appointment:

Understanding the ear wax removal process can help alleviate any anxiety and provide clarity on what to expect. Here’s a general overview of the procedure at Clearly Hearing:

a. Examination: Our professional will carefully examine your ears using a specialized instrument called an otoscope. This allows them to assess the extent of the wax build-up and identify any underlying issues.

b. Selecting the removal method: Depending on the severity of the wax accumulation, our professionals will choose the most appropriate technique for your situation. This may include irrigation (flushing with warm water), gentle suction, or manual removal using specialized instruments.

c. The removal process: Our experts will proceed with the chosen method, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout. The procedure should not cause pain, although you may experience mild discomfort or pressure.

d. Post-procedure instructions: After the ear wax removal, our professionals will provide you with detailed instructions on aftercare and precautions to prevent future build-up. Following these instructions diligently will promote optimal ear health.

 

Conclusion:

We commend you for taking the initiative to prioritize your ear health by scheduling an ear wax removal appointment at Clearly Hearing. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can confidently prepare for your upcoming appointment. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing you with.

 

 

---

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 neccessary. 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 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, Cigna, WPA and Vitality Health Insurance. Many insurers cover ear microsuction, but 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, or you can preauthorise your treatment by submitting the Clearly Hearing/ Dr Dayna Edwin Provider Number for that insurer.

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 for children and adults.  We can perform audiometry and are also able to refer patients for further investigations to their GP or any other professional or health professional.