Ear Wax Removal
Ear wax is normal and it protects the ear canal. However, impacted wax can cause difficulty with hearing.
The practice provides a unique wax removal service using gentle suction and a microscope to view the ear canal and ear drum.
This is a safe, gentle and very effective method of wax removal.
It is appropriate for:
- Impacted wax
- Urgent removal due to poor hearing or prior to flying
- Perforated ear drum
- Previous surgery/problems in ear canal where syringing is unsuitable
- Hearing aid users
Ear Wax Removal Cost
| Examination only | £30 |
| Treatment to one ear | £55 |
| Treatment to both ears | £80 |
What types of wax removal treatment are offered?
If the wax is in the outer third of the ear canal, this can be removed by using a specialist instrument (Jobson Horne). This is inserted into the ear canal and the wax is gently drawn out.
If the wax is very close to the ear drum or is impacted then microsuction is used. Microsuction is a procedure using a sophisticated microscope which provides a magnified light source. This enables the delicate structures of the ear canal to be viewed throughout the procedure. The wax is removed using gentle low pressure suction with a fine bore cannula.
Do I need to do anything before my appointment?
When you make your appointment you will be advised if you need to use any softening treatment the night before. Unlike syringing it is not necessary to use softening drops for more than one day.
How long will my appointment last?
Dependant on the treatment required and if both ears need attention between 20 – 30 minutes.
Occasionally an individual may need to return for follow up if there has been an ear infection or some trauma to the ear canal.
Will the treatment hurt?
The procedure is performed slowly and should not cause discomfort. If a client has any concerns during treatment the procedure is stopped immediately. Microsuction provides instant relief and is usually a revelation!
What will happen at my appointment?
You will have been sent a consultation form to complete. These details will be discussed prior to treatment. The ears will be examined using video otoscopy and the wax is then removed.
What is video otoscopy?
A video otoscope uses fibre optic illumination and a high resolution colour video camera, capable of recording the ear canal and ear drum. By projecting the image on a monitor it is possible to view the status of the ear canal and ear drum before and after treatment. Images of the ear are stored and can be viewed or printed as needed.
This type of examination allows the Ear Care Nurse and client to both view the ear canal and drum on screen.