Ear wax removal

What is Ear wax?

Cerumen (ear wax) is a vital component of your body’s protection and is made up of epithelium (skin cells) and oily secretions which are produced by the cerumenous and sebaceous glands which are located in the ear canal. These secretions help to lubricate the ear canal protecting it from foreign bodies. Without wax being present, the ear would be exposed to bacteria, insects, dust and other allergens. However wax becomes an issue when there is an excessive build up in the ear canal.

Symptoms:

Earwax becomes an issue once one of the following problems arises:

• Itchy ears
• Earache
• Blocked ears
• Dizziness
• Tinnitus
• Hearing loss
• Feedback from hearing aids

What is Microsuction?

Ear wax removal (microsuction) is a safe procedure where wax is removed from the ear under a microscope. The microscope is used to visualise the wax whilst it is being removed with a gentle suction machine with low pressure and a sterile probe.

Microsuction Vs Ear syringing?

Microsuction is a much quicker, safer and comfortable experience for the patient unlike ear syringing which requires water to flush out the wax. Microsuction is a ‘dry’ procedure reducing the risk of infection as water is not flushed into the ear canal. Unlike ear syringing Microsuction can be performed on people with longstanding dry perforated ear drums.

What happens during the appointment?

• Case history/consent form completed
• Video otoscopy to visualise the wax
• Ear wax is safely removed by microsuction
• Video otoscopy is repeated to examine the ear canal and ear drum to ensure a complete removal of wax

Price

One ear – £45                                 Two ears –   £75                               Home visit surcharge – £10-£15

Note- Occasionally we are unable to successfully remove all of the ear wax at the first appointment, if this happens, we will ask you to continue applying olive oil in your ears and make a further appointment to remove the wax. There will be no additional charge for this. However if a third visit is required, an additional charge will apply.

Home visits are available throughout Leicestershire, Rutland, Kettering and West Yorkshire. If you require a home visit, please call 0116 442 2534 or email us on info@ihearclear.co.uk