Ear irrigation is a procedure to remove excessive earwax by flushing the ear canal with a stream of warm water. It is performed by a healthcare professional after the earwax has been softened with ear drops. The process involves a controlled flow of lukewarm water to dislodge the wax, which then drains out with the water.

Before the procedure

Use ear drops:

You will likely be instructed to use ear drops, such as olive or almond oil, for several days to soften the impacted earwax.

Follow instructions:

Continue using the drops as directed. Do not use your fingers or cotton swabs to clean your ears, as this can push the wax further in.
Consider if needed:
Ear irrigation is typically a last resort after other methods have failed. If your hearing improves after using drops, you may not need the appointment.

The procedure:

Positioning: You will likely be asked to lie on your side with the affected ear facing up.

Flushing:

A healthcare professional will gently squirt a controlled stream of lukewarm water into the ear canal to dislodge the softened wax.

Stopping:

The procedure will stop immediately if you feel any discomfort or pain.
Draining: The water and dislodged wax will drain out of the ear.

Examination:

The professional will examine your ear with a light to check that the wax has been removed and the eardrum is intact.

Post-procedure:

Some people may feel dizzy, but this usually passes quickly. Your ear canal may be more prone to infection for a few days until more wax is produced for protection.

Preparation:

You may be advised to use ear drops for a few days before the appointment to soften the wax.

Ear microsuction is a procedure for removing earwax and foreign objects from the ear canal using a gentle suction device and a microscope for clear visualization. It is considered the safest and most effective method for wax removal, often providing immediate relief from symptoms like muffled hearing or tinnitus. While generally painless, some temporary side effects like dizziness or sensitivity can occur, and recovery is typically quick.

What is it?

A medical procedure to safely and effectively remove excess earwax or foreign objects from the ear canal. A trained professional uses a small suction tube and a microscope to see inside the ear and vacuum out the blockage.

How does it work?

A clinician will examine your ear canal with a microscope or otoscope. If necessary, they may use other instruments like a wax hook or forceps.

A tiny suction tube is inserted into the ear canal to gently remove the wax. The procedure is often followed by a final check with the microscope.

Sometimes, sterile saline solution is used to help break up stubborn wax.

What to expect

During the procedure: You may hear a clicking or popping sound. Most people find it a gentle and comfortable experience.

After the procedure: Your hearing should immediately improve. You may experience temporary dizziness, which usually passes quickly. You may be advised to avoid loud noises for the rest of the day.

Pain:

It is generally not painful, but you can take short-term painkillers like paracetamol if you experience discomfort during the procedure.

Who is it for?

It is recommended for those with excessive earwax that causes symptoms like muffled hearing, earache, or tinnitus.

It may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, such as a perforated eardrum or recurrent ear infections. Your clinician will assess this beforehand.

Preparation:

You may be advised to use ear drops for a few days before the appointment to soften the wax.