Microsuction is a safe method of ear wax removal, this can be attributed to its painless, quick, and effective nature.

At the Ear Nurse the microsuction procedure is carried out with a high-grade ENT surgical microscope to illuminate the ear and magnify the canal and ear drum, so we can observe each part of the outer ear in high definition. The microsuction process involves the patient laying down on an electric medical couch, allowing your nurse to move your head into a safe position to carry out the procedure and allows you to have greater control of your head and comfort to keep still throughout the procedure.

The Ear Nurse will gently add a small cone into your ear canal prior to using the microsuction. The microsuction is a small steel instrument attached to a suction tube and is inserted directly into the ear canal. This tube gently vacuums the wax out of the ear while being safely monitored with the microscope. We may also use other fine instruments to help remove wax all while under direct vision of the ENT microscope.

The procedure itself can take up to 30 minutes.

Occasionally we may ask you to return later if softening is required to your ear wax.

Safety is our priority, and we pride ourselves in making the procedure as pain free and comfortable as possible.

Considerations of Microsuction

The Ear Nurse staff have undertaken nationally accredited education and training within the Aural Care field and utilise the best procedure to minimise any risk of harm and complications during your appointment.

Although these issues are rare even when performed with the upmost care there are small risks to be considered:

• Damage or infection to the skin of the ear canal or eardrum
• Vertigo
• Short term Increased Tinnitus
• Short term Decreased hearing
• Incomplete removal of ear wax as it may be deemed too unsafe by our registered nurse
• We may find abnormal features of your ear canal or ear drum and may need to refer to your GP for further review and management
• Noise issues as the microsuction procedure can be loud, this may cause some discomfort