If you’ve been experiencing blocked ears, muffled hearing, discomfort or a feeling of fullness in your ears, earwax build-up could be the cause. One of the most effective and commonly used methods for removing excess earwax is microsuction. 

For many people, the thought of having their ears cleaned can feel a little daunting, especially if they’ve never had the procedure before. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what happens during a microsuction appointment, so you know what to expect from start to finish. This is how we do it Bath Ear Care

What Is Microsuction? 

Microsuction is a safe and precise method of earwax removal that uses a small medical suction device to gently remove excess wax from the ear canal. Unlike ear syringing or irrigation, microsuction does not involve flushing water into the ear. Using specialist magnification and lighting, the clinician can clearly see inside the ear canal throughout the procedure, allowing for accurate and controlled wax removal. 

Before Your Appointment 

To make earwax removal easier and more comfortable, we usually recommend softening the wax beforehand using olive oil ear drops or spray. Applying a few drops into the affected ear once or twice a day for several days before your appointment can help soften stubborn wax and improve the effectiveness of the treatment. 

If you’re unsure whether you should use ear drops, our team will be happy to advise you when booking. 

Step 1: Ear Examination 

Your appointment begins with a thorough examination of your ears. Using a specialist otoscope, your clinician will inspect the ear canal and eardrum to determine: 

• Whether earwax is present 

• How much wax has accumulated 

• Whether there are any signs of infection or inflammation 

• The safest approach for removal 

This assessment helps ensure that microsuction is the most appropriate treatment for your situation. 

Step 2: Explaining the Procedure 

Before treatment begins, your clinician will explain what they can see and discuss the planned treatment with you. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and raise any concerns before the procedure starts. At Bath Ear Care, we believe it’s important that patients feel informed and comfortable throughout their appointment. 

Step 3: Microsuction Earwax Removal 

Once you’re ready, the clinician will use a fine suction tube connected to a medical suction unit. The suction tube is carefully guided into the ear canal while the clinician views the area under magnification. The suction gently removes wax from the ear without touching the eardrum. During treatment, you may notice: 

• A suction or vacuum sound 

• Some crackling or popping noises 

• Temporary changes in hearing as wax is removed 

These sensations are completely normal and usually only last a few minutes. Most patients find the procedure surprisingly quick and comfortable. 

Step 4: Final Ear Check 

After the wax has been removed, your clinician will carry out a final examination of the ear canal and eardrum. 

This allows us to confirm that: 

• The wax has been successfully removed 

• The ear canal is healthy 

• The eardrum can be clearly visualized 

If any concerns are identified, we will explain our findings and advise on any appropriate next steps. 

How Long Does Microsuction Take? 

Most appointments take between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on: 

• The amount of wax present 

• Whether one or both ears require treatment 

• How soft or impacted the wax is 

In many cases, both ears can be treated during a single appointment. 

Is Microsuction Safe? 

Microsuction is widely regarded as one of the safest methods of earwax removal when performed by a trained clinician. Because the clinician can see the ear canal throughout the procedure, treatment is highly controlled and precise. Microsuction is often suitable for patients who: 

• Have had previous ear surgery 

• Have a perforated eardrum 

• Are prone to ear infections 

• Cannot undergo ear irrigation 

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks, but complications are uncommon when treatment is carried out by experienced professionals. Microsuction may not be appropriate if you have hyperacusis (sensitivity to loud noise), noise reactive tinnitus or a movement disorder that affects your ability to keep your head still.  In these cases, our clinicians are experienced in manual removal and irrigation and will use the safest method to remove wax and alleviate your symptoms.  

Does Microsuction Hurt? 

Most patients experience little or no discomfort. You may occasionally feel: 

• A slight tickling sensation 

• Mild sensitivity if the ear canal is inflamed 

• Temporary dizziness in rare cases 

The procedure can be stopped at any time if you feel uncomfortable. 

After Your Appointment 

Following treatment, many patients notice an immediate improvement in hearing and a reduction in the blocked sensation caused by earwax build-up. We advise ears are kept dry for 1-2 days after wax removal; this will minimize any potential risk of infection. Do not expose your ears to loud noise initially after treatment.  If your ears have been blocked for a long time, you may find it comfortable to wear a hat or scarf to get used to having air in them again.  Your clinician may provide advice on: 

• Preventing future wax build-up 

• Ear care routines 

• Whether regular maintenance appointments may be beneficial 

Book Your Microsuction Appointment at Bath Ear Care

If you’re struggling with blocked ears, hearing loss, tinnitus or ear discomfort, microsuction may provide fast and effective relief. At Bath Ear Care, our experienced clinicians use professional microsuction equipment to safely remove excess earwax and help restore comfortable hearing. Contact us today to book an appointment and take the first step towards clearer hearing.