Ear Wax Removal
Ear Wax Removal by Microsuction in Rainford, St Helens
Muffled hearing, a blocked or full feeling, or a hearing aid that keeps whistling? Ear wax build-up is very common, and many GP surgeries no longer offer ear wax removal. At Hannah Clarke Advanced Skin and Beauty in Rainford we offer safe, gentle ear wax removal using microsuction, with a free ear wax assessment if you are not sure whether you need it.
WhereHannah ClarkeAdvanced Skin and BeautyWhat Is Microsuction?
Microsuction uses a fine, gentle suction tube to lift wax out of the ear canal while the practitioner looks directly into your ear. Because the ear is examined throughout and no water is pushed into the ear, it is widely regarded as a safe and comfortable way to remove ear wax, and it is the method most clinics now use in place of old-style ear syringing.
Ear wax is natural and helps protect your ears. Most of the time it works its way out on its own. For some people it builds up and becomes impacted, particularly hearing aid users, people who wear earbuds or ear plugs a lot, people with narrow ear canals, and people who use cotton buds, which tend to push wax further in.
Signs You May Need Ear Wax Removal
- Muffled or reduced hearing in one or both ears
- A blocked, full or pressured feeling
- Itching or discomfort in the ear
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear
- Your hearing aid whistling or not working as well as usual
- Water feeling trapped in your ear after a shower or swim
Sudden hearing loss, ear pain, discharge from the ear, a high temperature or dizziness can be signs of something other than wax. If you have any of these, please speak to your GP or NHS 111 rather than booking ear wax removal.
Before Your Appointment: Olive Oil Drops
For safe and effective ear wax removal using microsuction, it is important that you use olive oil drops in the affected ear for at least three to five days before your appointment. These drops help to soften the wax, making the procedure more comfortable and ensuring the wax can be removed gently and thoroughly.
Without proper softening, the wax can be harder to extract and may require more than one visit. Olive oil ear drops or a dropper bottle of olive oil are available from most pharmacies. Lie on your side, put two or three drops in the ear, and stay lying down for a few minutes so the oil can work in.
What Happens at Your Appointment
- Assessment. We ask about your symptoms and health, then carefully examine your ears using an otoscope to check the ear canal and eardrum and look for any signs of wax build-up.
- Advice. If there is a significant amount of wax that may be affecting your hearing or causing discomfort, we will advise you on the best and safest removal option. If we see anything that needs a doctor, we will tell you.
- Microsuction. The wax is gently removed with suction. You will hear a hissing or whooshing sound, which can be loud but should not hurt.
- Check. We check the ear again once the wax is removed and give you aftercare advice.
Who Should Not Have Microsuction?
We may not be able to treat you, or may ask you to see your GP first, if you have or have recently had a perforated eardrum, an ear infection, grommets, ear surgery, or ongoing discharge from the ear. Please tell us when you book if any of these apply to you.
Aftercare and Keeping Wax Under Control
Your ears may feel a little sensitive and sounds may seem louder for a short time after microsuction. Keep water out of your ears for a day or two and avoid putting anything into the ear canal. To help stop wax building up again, avoid cotton buds, and if you are prone to build-up, a few drops of olive oil once or twice a week can help. Hearing aid wearers and people who build up wax quickly often find a regular appointment keeps things under control.
Ear Wax Removal Prices
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| Ear Wax Assessment | Free |
| Ear Wax Removal one ear | £50 |
| Ear Wax Removal both ears | £70 |
Prices may vary slightly depending on the practitioner carrying out your treatment. Check the booking page for the latest prices and availability.
Ear Wax Removal: The Questions Everyone Asks
Is microsuction painful?
Microsuction should not be painful. The suction can be noisy and you may feel a slight pulling or cool sensation, but most people find it comfortable, especially when the wax has been softened with olive oil first.
Do I really need to use olive oil first?
Yes. Please use olive oil drops in the affected ear for at least three to five days before your appointment. Softened wax comes away more easily and comfortably, and you are less likely to need a second visit.
What is the ear wax assessment?
It is a free check where we examine your ears with an otoscope to see whether wax is the problem. If it is, we will advise you on the best and safest way to remove it.
How long does it take?
One ear is usually quick, and both ears take a little longer. We will let you know how long to allow when you book.
Is microsuction better than ear syringing?
Microsuction is now the method most clinics use. The ear is looked at directly throughout, and no water is pushed into the ear canal.
How often should I have my ears cleaned?
Many people only need it occasionally. Hearing aid users and people who build up wax quickly often benefit from a regular appointment, which we can advise on at your visit.
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Book Ear Wax Removal
Book online, or call or WhatsApp us on 07514 307 552 if you would like to talk it through first.
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