Ear Wax Removal available at North Devon Microsuction & Earcare Clinic

Yes, even though there is now a permanent weakness on the ear drum, microsuction removes the wax from the outside via suction, rather than swilling water round the ear canal to dislodge it so no pressure is placed on the ear drum and sensitive canal walls.

This is not strictly necessary, but it may make the procedure easier if olive oil is put in a couple of days before microsuction but you don't need to use it twice a day for 7 – 10 days in the same way you have to do for syringing.

There are very few patients for whom microsuction cannot be used or tolerated. Rotherham states that it should not be used if:

• patients have experienced difficulties with the procedure in the past.
• a history of severe dizziness.
• patients who have a (major) sensitivity to loud noise – (known as Hyperacusis).
• patients are unable to hold their heads still, or are prone to unpredictable head movement.
• if valid consent has not been obtained.

No, the process should not cause any pain at all as the structures within the ear canal are not touched. Using high magnification to visualise your ear ensures that only the wax is targeted. Some patients say it is a bit noisy but as the procedure doesn't take that long it is well tolerated, especially when compared to syringing. Others have reported a tickling sensation during the procedure.

It usually only takes a few minutes – most patients will be free of wax after 30 to 40 minutes or so, even if they have had both ears microsuctioned. However, if you are booking a first appointment please allow one hour as Liz needs to assess your suitability for the procedure first. As part of this, she will examine your ears and ask some questions about your general health prior to treatment. This of course, is in total confidence.

For one ear the charge is £45, and for both ears £65.

Yes – there is no lower age limit to microsuction. However, the child must be able to stay still for the procedure. Also, it should be noted that if the child is very fearful of having it done it is advisable to give serious thought as to the necessity of the procedure and whether treatment may hinder any future care needed.

Indeed, as the pressure you felt before having it done is no longer there

• It may be hereditary or your nationality. For example, SE Asian people produce a dry, more flakey wax and Caucasians and African-Caribbean people produce more of a sticky, wet form.
• It may be caused by putting items in your ear such as cotton buds to clean or dry the ears. This stimulates the glands within the ear to produce more wax so it becomes a persistent problem.
• A build up of wax is more likely to occur in older adults as our wax becomes drier as we age.
• People who have narrowed ear canals find the wax doesn't work its way out naturally.
• Hearing aid users often have troublesome wax as the mould constantly comes into contact with the glands that secrete wax, thus stimulating the glands to produce more. Furthermore, the mould slows down the self-cleansing mechanism of the ear.

Every patient is different and there are many reasons why wax can build up and become problematic. Because of this some unfortunate patients may need their ear wax clearing every 3 to 4 months. However, it is more common once to twice a year. There is no upper limit on how often the procedure can be performed.