Ear Wax Removal

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It helps protect the ears by trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Earwax also has antibacterial properties and keeps the ear canal moisturised.

Normally, earwax moves out of the ear naturally due to jaw movements like chewing or talking. However, excessive buildup can cause blockage, leading to symptoms like hearing loss, itching, or discomfort.

Avoid using cotton buds/swabs/Q-tips or sharp objects – they can push wax deeper into the ear and can be dangerous.
Warm Water Rinse – Gently flush your ear with warm (not hot) water using a rubber bulb syringe after softening the wax. Tilt your head to let the water drain out.
Olive Oil or Almond Oil – A few drops can help soften earwax and allow it to move out naturally.
Over-the-Counter Ear Drops – Use cerumenolytic (earwax-softening) drops like hydrogen peroxide*, mineral oil, or saline to loosen the wax.

*Please do not use drops containing hydrogen peroxide for 5 days prior to an ear wax microsuction appointment

Ear microsuction is a safe and effective procedure used to remove excess earwax or debris from the ear canal.

It involves using a small, gentle suction device and a microscope camera to carefully extract the wax, without the need for water irrigation.

Use olive oil or almond oil ear drops three to four times a day for up to five days before your appointment to help soften earwax and improve the chances of a successful microsuction. Wax softening drops are available at most high street pharmacies.

Please avoid ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide, as they may cause irritation and discomfort during the procedure and could reduce the effectiveness of microsuction.

Pre-treating with ear drops makes wax removal easier and quicker. If our pharmacist is unable to remove all the wax, they will provide guidance on the next steps.

Your appointment will last approximately 30 minutes. Our specially trained health advisers will begin by asking you a few questions, explaining the procedure, and ensuring you’re comfortable.

Next, they will use a specialised camera to examine the inside of your ear before carefully removing any excess earwax. They’ll also take images, which can be helpful for future comparisons.

If it’s your first time, the sound of the removal device may take some getting used to. Our health adviser will demonstrate it beforehand so you know what to expect. While having something in your ear may feel unusual, the procedure should not be painful.

A 30-minute ear wax removal session costs £60.

If the pharmacist does not find excessive or impacted ear wax that requires microsuction removal, a consultation will cost £25.