What Is Microsuction?
Microsuction is a method of earwax removal in which the ear canal is examined before any treatment is carried out. Using appropriate equipment, the practitioner can visualise the ear canal throughout the procedure and remove wax using controlled suction.
Because the ear canal is visible during the procedure, the practitioner can work carefully and respond to what they see. Suitability for microsuction is determined following an assessment — it is not appropriate for every patient or every presentation of earwax.
As with any clinical procedure, microsuction carries a small degree of risk. The practitioner will discuss this with you before proceeding. Successful removal of all wax cannot be guaranteed in a single appointment.
What Is Ear Irrigation?
Ear irrigation (sometimes called ear syringing, though modern irrigation uses a controlled flow of water rather than a traditional syringe) involves using a gentle, regulated stream of water to help dislodge and flush out earwax.
Before irrigation is carried out, the ear is assessed and a relevant medical and ear history is taken. Irrigation is not appropriate for every patient. Certain conditions — including a history of perforated eardrum, ear surgery, active ear infection or a narrow ear canal — may mean that irrigation is not suitable.
Pre-treatment softening of the wax using olive oil or a proprietary wax-softening product is often recommended in the days before an irrigation appointment, where there are no contraindications to doing so.
Microsuction vs Ear Irrigation: What's the Difference?
The table below summarises the key differences between the two methods. Neither method is universally better — the most appropriate approach depends on the individual patient and the clinical assessment.
Method
Microsuction
Controlled suction used to remove wax under direct visualisation
Ear Irrigation
Controlled flow of water used to flush wax from the ear canal
How wax is removed
Microsuction
Drawn out using a fine suction probe
Ear Irrigation
Flushed out by water pressure
Ear preparation
Microsuction
Pre-softening with olive oil may be recommended but is not always required
Ear Irrigation
Pre-softening with olive oil or a wax-softening product is usually recommended in advance
What the patient may experience
Microsuction
A sensation of suction; some patients find the noise of the equipment uncomfortable
Ear Irrigation
A sensation of water in the ear; some patients experience brief dizziness
When it may be appropriate
Microsuction
Determined by assessment; may be suitable where irrigation is contraindicated
Ear Irrigation
Determined by assessment; often used where wax has been adequately softened and there are no contraindications
Reasons it may not be suitable
Microsuction
Determined by assessment and individual ear anatomy
Ear Irrigation
History of perforated eardrum, ear surgery, active infection, narrow canal, or other contraindications identified at assessment
| Aspect | Microsuction | Ear Irrigation |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Controlled suction used to remove wax under direct visualisation | Controlled flow of water used to flush wax from the ear canal |
| How wax is removed | Drawn out using a fine suction probe | Flushed out by water pressure |
| Ear preparation | Pre-softening with olive oil may be recommended but is not always required | Pre-softening with olive oil or a wax-softening product is usually recommended in advance |
| What the patient may experience | A sensation of suction; some patients find the noise of the equipment uncomfortable | A sensation of water in the ear; some patients experience brief dizziness |
| When it may be appropriate | Determined by assessment; may be suitable where irrigation is contraindicated | Determined by assessment; often used where wax has been adequately softened and there are no contraindications |
| Reasons it may not be suitable | Determined by assessment and individual ear anatomy | History of perforated eardrum, ear surgery, active infection, narrow canal, or other contraindications identified at assessment |
Should I Use Olive Oil Before Earwax Removal?
Softening earwax before an appointment using olive oil or a proprietary wax-softening product can make removal easier in some cases. Many practitioners recommend applying a few drops of medical-grade olive oil to the affected ear for several days before an appointment.
However, ear drops and oils are not appropriate for everyone. If you have a history of a perforated eardrum, ear surgery, ear infection, or have been advised not to put anything in your ears, do not use ear drops or oils without speaking to a pharmacist or appropriate healthcare professional first.
If you are unsure whether it is safe to use a wax-softening product, contact Clocktower Pharmacy on 01695 574118 before your appointment.
How Do I Know If I Have Excess Earwax?
Common symptoms that may be associated with a build-up of earwax include:
- A blocked or plugged sensation in one or both ears
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Mild discomfort or earache
- Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing or other sounds in the ear)
These symptoms are not always caused by earwax. Other conditions can produce similar symptoms, which is why a clinical examination before any treatment is important. If you experience sudden hearing loss, significant pain, discharge from the ear, or any other concerning symptoms, seek appropriate medical assessment rather than assuming earwax is responsible.
When Might Earwax Removal Not Be Appropriate?
Earwax removal is not suitable for every patient. Suitability depends on a clinical assessment and a review of your relevant medical and ear history. The practitioner will assess your ears before any treatment is carried out.
If you have significant ear pain, discharge from the ear, sudden hearing loss, a history of ear surgery or a perforated eardrum, or any other ear condition, please mention this when you contact the pharmacy. Do not assume that your symptoms are caused by earwax.
If you are experiencing significant pain, sudden hearing loss, or discharge from the ear, seek appropriate medical assessment from your GP or NHS 111 rather than attending for earwax removal.
Earwax Removal in Ormskirk
Clocktower Pharmacy offers professional ear assessment and earwax removal in Ormskirk. The most appropriate method of removal will be determined following an assessment of your ears and a review of your relevant medical history.
We cannot guarantee that all wax can be removed in a single appointment. In some cases, further softening or a follow-up appointment may be needed.
Clocktower Pharmacy38 Burscough StreetOrmskirkL39 2ES01695 574118Frequently Asked Questions
Is microsuction painful?
Most patients do not find microsuction painful, though some find the noise of the suction equipment uncomfortable. The procedure can occasionally cause mild discomfort. The practitioner will stop if you experience significant pain.
Is ear irrigation painful?
Ear irrigation is generally well tolerated. Some patients experience a brief sensation of dizziness or discomfort during the procedure. The practitioner will stop if you experience significant pain.
Which is better: microsuction or irrigation?
Neither method is universally better. The most appropriate method depends on your individual ears, medical history and the findings of a clinical assessment. The practitioner will advise which approach is suitable for you.
Do I need to soften earwax before my appointment?
Pre-softening with olive oil or a wax-softening product is often recommended before an irrigation appointment and may be helpful before microsuction. However, ear drops are not appropriate for everyone. If you have a history of ear problems or have been advised not to put anything in your ears, speak to the pharmacy before using any drops.
Can you remove wax from both ears?
Yes, both ears can be assessed and treated at the same appointment where clinically appropriate. Please mention at booking if you have concerns about both ears.
What happens if the wax cannot be removed?
In some cases, wax may not be removable in a single appointment — for example if it is very hard or impacted. The practitioner may recommend further softening and a follow-up appointment, or refer you to an appropriate healthcare professional if needed.
How long does earwax removal take?
Appointment duration can vary depending on the amount of wax present, the method used and individual factors. The practitioner will be able to give you a better indication at the time of your appointment.