01784 676515
Trusted Adult Ear Wax Removal Service Specialists
Ear Corner provides professional microsuction ear wax removal and earwax removal for adults aged 18+ from our clinic in Ashford, Surrey.
If you’re experiencing blocked ears, reduced hearing, discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the ear, a build-up of ear wax may be the cause.
We use microsuction, also known as micro suction, to carefully remove excess ear wax using specialist equipment, while allowing the practitioner to clearly view the ear canal throughout the procedure.
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What is microsuction ear wax removal?
Microsuction is a method of earwax removal that uses a small suction device.
Unlike traditional ear syringing or ear irrigation, micro suction does not involve flushing the ear canal with warm water. A fully qualified healthcare professional examines the ear and uses microsuction for professional wax removal to gently remove excess earwax while maintaining a clear view of the ear canal. For most people, it is a painless procedure when ear wax removal is carried out professionally.
Before treatment, we’ll carry out otoscopy to examine your ears and determine whether wax is present and whether microsuction is appropriate. Trying to remove earwax yourself can push wax deeper, and cotton buds can cause blockages by pushing it further in, which may lead to infection, hearing loss, permanent damage, or other serious complications.
Signs you may have a build-up of ear wax
Earwax is completely normal and helps protect, clean and moisturise the ear canal, but when earwax build up becomes a problem, our ear wax removal treatments, including micro suction, can help. Sometimes, however, too much wax can accumulate and cause symptoms such as:
• Blocked or full-feeling ears
• Reduced or muffled hearing
• Ear discomfort
• Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
• Difficulty using a hearing aid because of excess earwax
These symptoms can have causes other than ear wax, which is why we examine the ear before treatment. The practitioner examines the ear first, with a clear view into the area near the ear drum so wax buildup can be removed gently. Unlike traditional ear syringing, which is no longer recommended due to safety concerns, irrigation uses warm water that needs to be close to body temperature to avoid dizziness.
Some people are more prone to impacted earwax than others. This can include people who regularly use hearing aids, ear plugs or in-ear headphones, as these may interfere with the natural movement of wax out of the ear canal causing blockage and temporary hearing loss.
The amount and type of ear wax also varies from person to person. If your ears are blocked repeatedly, professional examination can help establish whether excess earwax is the likely cause of your symptoms. Professional removal often takes around 10 to 15 minutes per ear, depending on the wax.
What happens at your Ear Corner appointment?
Your practitioner will first discuss your symptoms, including muffled sounds and dizziness, and examine your ears using an otoscope.
Earwax often moves outward naturally and usually does not need removal unless it becomes symptomatic or impacted. If there is wax suitable for removal, we’ll explain the procedure before beginning microsuction.
The ear wax is then carefully removed using specialist equipment. We’ll check the ear again afterwards and explain anything relevant that we’ve observed once the ear wax removed has cleared the view.
You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions before and during your appointment.
Microsuction uses a gentle suction device to remove ear wax while the practitioner maintains a clear view of the ear canal, making it a painless procedure for most adults. Depending on the amount of wax present, treatment may be required for one ear or both ears.
Some people are more prone to earwax build up, including those who wear a hearing aid. Earwax naturally removes itself unless impacted.
If you have had previous ear surgery, a recurring ear infection or other ongoing ear problems, please let us know before your appointment, especially if there has ever been a perforated eardrum. This helps our healthcare professional determine whether microsuction is appropriate for you or whether you should seek further medical advice from a doctor. A brief spinning sensation can occasionally happen during treatment, but if it persists or feels severe, you should seek medical advice.
Impacted earwax obstructing the ear canal can cause hearing loss and related symptoms. Excess earwax affects 2.3 million people annually in the UK.
Preparing for your ear wax removal appointment
We generally recommend using olive oil ear drops for 3–5 days before your appointment to help soften the wax, although microsuction does not always require wax softening drops beforehand.
Follow the instructions provided with the drops, which you can usually buy from a local pharmacy, and don’t insert cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal in an attempt to remove earwax yourself. We also do not recommend hopi ear candles, as they are not a safe or effective way to clear blocked ears.
If you’re unsure whether you should use drops because of previous ear problems or surgery, please contact us before your appointment for professional guidance. Tell us if you have had a previous ear infection, a perforated eardrum, or symptoms such as sudden hearing loss or severe pain, as these can mean you should see a doctor before treatment.
Ear wax removal in Ashford, Surrey
Ear Corner is based in Ashford, Surrey, providing professional ear wax removal and microsuction to adults from Ashford and surrounding areas, including ear wax removal treatments for blocked ears after using wax-softening drops such as olive oil before an appointment.
Suitable softening drops may also be available from a local pharmacy, but if you have a history of ear problems, only use them with professional guidance.
Our aim is to provide straightforward, professional ear care in a comfortable clinical environment, with time to explain what we’re doing and answer your questions. Do not try to remove wax yourself, and do not use Hopi ear candles or ear candling, as they are ineffective and carry a risk of injury or burns. If home drops do not clear the blockage, contact a healthcare provider or doctor for advice.
How much does ear wax removal cost?
Microsuction for both ears, including otoscopy: £65
Otoscopy only: £30
No-wax check: £30
If we examine your ears and find that microsuction isn’t appropriate, we’ll explain the findings and what you should do next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is microsuction painful?
Microsuction is generally well tolerated. Some people may find certain sensations or sounds unusual during the procedure. Your practitioner will explain what is happening, and you should tell them if you experience discomfort.
How long does microsuction take?
Appointment time varies depending on the amount and consistency of wax present and whether one or both ears require treatment.
Can you remove wax from both ears?
Yes. Where appropriate, both ears can be examined and treated during your appointment.
Should I use olive oil before my appointment?
We generally recommend using olive oil drops for 3–5 days beforehand to soften the wax and help facilitate removal.
Do you treat children?
Ear Corner’s microsuction service is currently for adults aged 18 and over.
What if there isn’t any ear wax?
We’ll still examine your ears and explain what we can see. If your symptoms aren’t being caused by wax, we can advise you on appropriate next steps where possible.
Is microsuction the same as ear syringing?
No. Ear syringing or ear irrigation generally uses warm water to flush wax from the ear. Microsuction removes wax using suction while the practitioner maintains a clear view of the ear canal. If your symptoms may not be caused by wax, or you have sudden hearing loss or severe pain, see a healthcare professional or doctor. If home treatment has not cleared the blockage, professional assessment is the next step.
Book Your Ear Wax Removal Appointment
If you’re experiencing blocked ears, reduced hearing or think you may have a build-up of ear wax, book an appointment with Ear Corner in Ashford, Surrey for safe earwax removal.
Our adult microsuction ear wax removal service costs £65 for both ears, including otoscopy, and appointments can be booked online. Where suitable, we can also advise on options such as irrigation, which uses warm water and should be close to body temperature to avoid dizziness.
Book your appointment online today for professional wax removal or call Ear Corner on 01784 676515 if you have any questions before booking.
