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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know, from ear wax removal cost to what happens at your appointment.

Read Our FAQs

Microsuction And Ear Syringing In Birmingham

Generally, patients tolerate microsuction well. However, sensations and comfort levels vary between individuals. We also offer ear syringing or manual removal in Birmingham if microsuction is not right for you.

Most appointments take 20–30 minutes in total, including 10–15 minutes of treatment.

If you can, use 2–3 drops of olive oil in the affected ear once or twice daily for 3–5 days before your appointment, as NHS guidance recommends. As a result, the wax softens, so removal is quicker and more comfortable.

However, if you need an appointment sooner, we can still see you the same day. Microsuction does not need softening in every case. Your clinician will also advise at your assessment whether drops and a free follow-up would give a better result.

Many clinicians prefer microsuction because it is a dry procedure, unlike traditional water-based ear irrigation. However, we always choose the most appropriate method of earwax removal after an individual clinical assessment. For some patients, microsuction may reduce certain risks of water-based irrigation, because irrigation introduces water into the ear canal and can increase the risk of ear infection.

Microsuction is also a widely used and clinically accepted method of earwax removal. In fact, NICE guidance recognises several appropriate techniques, with the choice based on individual clinical findings. You can read more about microsuction vs ear syringing and how audiologists select the most suitable method.

We see children over the age of 5 for ear wax removal. However, because children have a smaller ear canal, only our experienced audiologists carry out the procedure.

Ear wax removal costs £50 for one ear or £70 for both ears at all our clinics. If we find no wax, you only pay a £20 consultation fee. In addition, children’s ear wax removal (5 to 10 years old) costs £80, while home visit ear wax removal starts from £80. You can book your appointment online or call 0121 369 0780.

Microsuction is ideal for patients with a history of perforations, because they could not previously have water irrigation with a hole in the eardrum. It is also a widely used and clinically accepted way to remove debris or keratosis inside the ear canal when appropriate. In addition, it is the preferred method for anyone with a history of infection, operations or perforations of the eardrum.

Please be aware that we cannot offer microsuction if you have had a perforation, ear surgery or grommets in the last 90 days. However, if it has been over 90 days since these procedures, we can assess you on an individual basis. After a consultation, we then decide case by case whether it is suitable and safe to go ahead.

Yes, we offer home visit ear wax removal in selected Birmingham locations. In fact, our equipment is completely portable, so our audiologists can come to you.

This varies from person to person. For example, some people need checks once a year, while others need them more often. If you wear hearing aids, use earphones regularly or have narrow ear canals, you may also benefit from more frequent checks.

Blocked ears are not always due to wax. In that case, further tests such as tympanometry can identify other causes, and we can then arrange a referral to your GP or ENT specialist.