Painless and effective ear wax removal using the safest clinical method. Micro-suctioning is the gold standard in ear wax removal.
Painless, Effective & Safe Ear Wax Removal
Microsuction – the gold standard in ear hygiene.
Microsuction
Specialist equipment
State-of-the-art equipment for precise, effective, and comfortable treatment.
Registered Nurse Care
Experienced registered nurse providing safe and professional ear wax removal. Fully insured, safe care you can trust.
Patient-focused treatment
Your hearing health and comfort are our top priority. Convenient same day, weekend and mobile appointments available.
Genuine patient stories
reviews
5/5
reviews and counting
Micro-suctioning. Everything you need to know
What is micro-suctioning?
Microsuctioning is a method of removing ear wax using gentle suction and a clear view of the ear canal. At Ear Nurse, we examine your ear first, then use specialist equipment to carefully remove wax, debris or blockage from the ear.
Unlike some ear wax removal methods, microsuction does not use water. This makes it a suitable option for many people who want quick, precise ear wax removal carried out by a trained clinician.
Why microsuctioning and not irrigation?
Microsuction is often preferred because it removes ear wax without flushing water into the ear canal. Irrigation uses water to wash wax out, while microsuction uses controlled suction under direct observation.
Microsuction may be more suitable for people who have been advised to avoid water in the ear, such as those with a history of eardrum perforation, ear surgery, recurring infections or previous problems with irrigation. Your clinician will check your ears and advise what is appropriate for you.
Why is my ear wax that colour? Is very dark ear wax normal?
Dark ear wax is often normal. Ear wax can range from pale yellow to orange, brown or very dark brown depending on age, dryness, how long it has been in the ear, and exposure to dust or debris.
Very dark wax does not automatically mean infection. However, if you also have pain, discharge, a bad smell, sudden hearing loss, dizziness or bleeding, you should seek medical advice before booking routine wax removal and our qualified nurse can advise on the best course of action.
How long will microsuction take?
A microsuction appointment usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, including assessment of your ears. The actual wax removal can be much quicker, but the appointment allows time to check both ears, explain what we find, and work carefully.
If the wax is very hard, dry or impacted, you may need softening drops before treatment or a follow-up appointment.
Does microsuction hurt?
Microsuction is usually painless, although some people feel mild discomfort, pressure, tickling or noise during the procedure. The suction can sound loud because it is happening inside the ear canal.
If wax is very hard, compacted or close to the eardrum, the ear may feel more sensitive. Tell your clinician straight away if you feel pain so they can pause and adjust the treatment.
How often will I need ear wax removal done?
Some people only need ear wax removal once, while others need it regularly. How often you need microsuction depends on how much wax you naturally produce, the shape of your ear canals, whether you use hearing aids or earplugs, and whether your wax tends to become dry or impacted.
Many people book ear wax removal only when symptoms return, such as blocked ears, reduced hearing, ringing, fullness or discomfort. Your clinician can advise you after looking at your ears.
What made you decide to do this as a job?
Ear wax removal can make a real difference to someone’s day-to-day life. Many people come in with blocked ears, reduced hearing, discomfort or frustration, and leave feeling clearer and more comfortable.
At Ear Nurse, the focus is practical ear care: careful assessment, safe wax removal, clear advice, and helping people understand what is happening inside their ears.
The Ear Nurse