Micro-suction Earwax Removal
Microsuction ear wax removal is a precise procedure used to safely clear excess ear wax from the ear canal under direct visual guidance with a head-worn microscope.
This allows the practitioner to clearly see the ear canal and wax during treatment while using gentle low-pressure suction or specialised ENT instruments such as ear hooks, Jobson Horne probes, and curettes.
Microsuction is considered a dry, safe, and effective method for removing impacted or excessive ear wax, particularly when traditional irrigation is not suitable.
At our earwax care clinic, microsuction and manual wax removal (curettage) are performed by qualified Registered Nurses to help patients experiencing blocked ears, reduced hearing, discomfort, or wax impaction.
Combined with fine manual instruments, microsuction is widely regarded as the preferred ear wax removal technique used by Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists.
What to expect during the Micro-suction procedure?
Microscopic ear wax removal using microsuction usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes to complete. The treatment time may vary depending on factors such as the amount and consistency of the wax, how deeply it is positioned in the ear canal, whether fine ENT instruments or suction is required, and whether treatment is needed for one ear or both ears.
- Before your appointment begins, you will be asked to complete a brief medical questionnaire about your ear health history and any current symptoms, such as blocked ears, hearing reduction, itching, tinnitus, discomfort, or ear pressure. Your qualified Registered Nurse will review this information with you before treatment.
- The procedure is usually performed while you are lying comfortably on a medical treatment couch. This position allows your nurse to safely adjust your head if needed, helping improve both comfort and stability during the procedure.
- A bright examination light and an ear speculum are used to carefully inspect the ear canal and eardrum. At this stage, your nurse will assess whether ear wax removal is clinically necessary.
- If wax removal is indicated, the procedure will be explained clearly and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions before treatment begins.
- A very fine microsuction catheter connected to gentle low-pressure suction is then carefully placed into the ear canal to remove excess wax—similar to a small medical vacuum. Fine ENT instruments such as curettes or ear hooks may also be used where appropriate.
- Throughout the procedure, your nurse uses a head-worn microscope with bright illumination and magnified 3D vision to maintain clear visualisation of the ear canal and eardrum at all times, ensuring accuracy and safety.
- In some cases, if the wax is very hard or deeply impacted, we may recommend softening drops and ask you to return for treatment at a later time.
- Patient safety is always our priority, and we aim to make the procedure as gentle, comfortable, and pain-free as possible.
