Frequently Asked Questions

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Ear Zone offers a variety of services including Microsuction, Ear Irrigation, Foreign Object Removal, Urgent Call Outs.

You can book an appointment at Ear Zone by calling our office  on 0800 644 8455 or using our online booking system at www.earzone.co.uk

• Video Otoscope / Otoscope for examination of the Ear.
• Medical Suction Unit
• Fine End Suction Tubes
• Micro Forceps to assist with Hard Wax Removal
• Specula 4/5/6mm
• Rosen Inserter
• Jobson Horne Probe
•  Cerumen   Ear Hook    
• Medical Loupes to assist with clinicians vision of the Ear Canal and Wax
• Earol to assist with softening of Hard Wax

While Microsution is generally a safe and effective way to remove ear wax, there are certain situation where it may not be the best option. Here are some reasons as to why Microsuction might be unsafe or unsuitable for you.

• When you have had the procedure in the past and there as been complications or difficulties.
• Unable to sit Still or keep your head still.
• You have a history  or Lightheadedness / Dizziness.
• Hyperacusis
• If you are unable to consent to the procedure.

When we see  you for a microsuction earwax removal appointment, our goal is to provide safe, effective, and comfortable care. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what typically happens during a full appointment:

1. Initial Consultation and Ear Health Assessment

• Your specialist will start by discussing any symptoms you’re experiencing, such as ear discomfort, hearing difficulties, or past ear health issues.
• Next, we’ll examine your ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope or a video otoscope (which provides a live feed, so you can see what we’re seeing). This helps us assess the amount of earwax build up and check for any underlying issues, like inflammation or infection, that might affect the procedure.

2. Preparation and Explanation of the Procedure

• Your specialist will explain the microsuction process and answer any questions you may have. If it’s your first time, we’ll walk you through the steps to ensure you feel comfortable and understand what to expect.

3. Microsuction Earwax Removal

• Using a specialiesd medical suction device, your specialist will gently remove the earwax. The device has a thin, small nozzle that allows for precise suction, removing wax without direct contact or pushing against the ear canal walls.
• During the procedure, you may hear a low-level suction sound, and there may be brief sensations of movement within the ear canal. The process is generally quick and painless, though you may feel some mild pressure as the wax is removed.

4. Post-Removal Examination

• Once the wax is cleared, your specialist will re-examine your ears to ensure everything looks healthy and that the ear canal is free of any blockages. We’ll also check for any signs of infection, damage, or other issues that might need further attention.
• If any additional findings are noted, we’ll discuss them with you and provide recommendations for any follow-up care or preventative tips to avoid future buildup.

5. Ear Health Advice and Aftercare Tips

• Your specialist will provide guidance on how to maintain ear health, including tips on keeping the ears clean and reducing the risk of excessive wax buildup in the future. We’ll answer any remaining questions you have to ensure you feel confident about your ear care

A full appointment with microsuction generally lasts about 20–30 minutes. By the end of the visit, you should notice an improvement in hearing and overall comfort, and you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of your ear health.

To ensure the best results and a comfortable experience during your microsuction earwax removal, here are some steps you can take beforehand:

1. Use Olive Oil or Earol Drops/Spray (If Recommended)

• In the days leading up to your appointment, applying a few drops of medical-grade olive oil or ear-softening drops once or twice a day can help soften the earwax. This can make the microsuction process easier and more comfortable by loosening any hardened wax.
• Avoid using any other oils or ear drops unless specifically recommended by your specialist, as some can cause irritation or make the wax removal more difficult.

2. Avoid Using Cotton Swabs or Ear Candles

• Don’t try to clean your ears with cotton swabs, ear candles, or any other home remedies. These can push the wax further in or cause irritation, making removal more challenging and potentially leading to discomfort during your appointment.

3. Share Relevant Medical History

• If you have any known ear conditions, recent ear infections, a perforated eardrum, or have had ear surgery, let us know ahead of time. This information helps us tailor the procedure for your safety and comfort.

4. Inform Us of Any Symptoms or Concerns

• If you’re experiencing significant ear pain, dizziness, or other unusual symptoms, mention this when booking your appointment. Certain symptoms may require an alternative approach or additional consultation before proceeding with microsuction.

5. Plan for a Quiet, Low-Activity Day After the Procedure

• Microsuction is generally gentle, but if your ears are sensitive, you might want a quiet day following the appointment. Avoid exposure to loud sounds and limit activities that might impact ear pressure, like flying or scuba diving.

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth, safe, and effective microsuction procedure. If you have any other questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out before your appointment!

Risks and Possible Side Effects of Microsuction Earwax Removal

Microsuction is generally considered one of the safest and most effective methods for earwax removal. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of. Here’s a breakdown of what might occur:

1. Mild Discomfort or Sensitivity

• During the procedure, some people may feel mild discomfort or sensitivity in the ear canal. This is usually brief and resolves quickly, but if you have a sensitive ear canal, it may feel slightly uncomfortable.

2. Temporary Hearing Changes

• After the procedure, some people report slight changes in hearing, such as a temporary improvement (due to the cleared wax) or, less commonly, minor muffling. These effects usually resolve within a few hours as your ear adjusts.

3. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

• The inner ear plays a key role in balance, and some people experience brief dizziness or lightheadedness during or immediately after microsuction. This is generally temporary and should pass quickly, but it’s best to sit for a moment after the procedure if you feel lightheaded.

4. Minor Ear Canal Irritation or Scratches

• The ear canal is delicate, and in rare cases, the suction device may cause minor irritation or small scratches. This risk is minimized when performed by a trained specialist who uses precise, gentle techniques.

5. Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)

• Some individuals experience mild tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, after microsuction. This is usually temporary but can be more noticeable if you’re already prone to tinnitus.

6. Risk of Infection

• Although rare, there is a slight risk of infection if any irritation occurs or if bacteria are introduced during the procedure. Our specialists take precautions to maintain a sterile environment and use equipment to reduce this risk.

7. Ear Drum Perforation (Very Rare)

• In extremely rare cases, microsuction can lead to a perforated (or ruptured) eardrum, usually due to existing vulnerabilities in the ear or if the procedure is performed too aggressively. Our team carefully assesses each patient’s ear health to avoid any risk factors that could lead to this outcome.

At Ear Zone Health Clinic, we prioritise patient safety and comfort by conducting a thorough ear assessment and explaining each step of the process. Our trained professionals are highly skilled in microsuction techniques, which greatly reduces the likelihood of these risks. If you have any concerns about the procedure, feel free to discuss them with us before your appointment.