Please reach us at d-icb.ent.enquiries@nhs.net if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Ear wax is a natural secretion of glands in the ear canal, and helps to keep the ears healthy. Normally it is carried out of the ear as the skin grows, but sometimes if can build up and cause blockage, especially if you use hearing aids, cotton buds (please don't!) or have very hairy ears. If it blocks the ears, it can cause reduced hearing and discomfort requiring removal. If you are having a hearing assessment or hearing aid service it is also important to have clean ears to avoid interference and feedback.
Syringing forces pressurised water into the ear canal which is done without being able to see directly into the ear. There is a small risk of damaging the delicate inner ear structures with this method, and many practitioners choose to have ear wax removed by the much safer procedure of microsuction.
With microsuction, the canal and the ear wax are being directly viewed with a microscope whilst it is being removed, avoiding any risk of inadvertent trauma to the ear canal or ear drum. Microsuction uses a small electric sucker to remove the wax, so unlike syringing which flushes your ear out, it is much gentler.
Microsuction can be daunting for patients, particularly those undergoing the procedure for the first time. The procedure includes the following:
Not usually although some patients do find the noise a little loud. Your ear canal skin is sensitive but we aim to avoid touching it. If you prefer you can ask for the wax to be removed without suction, using a small probe.
Microsuction is a safe procedure. Unlike syringing, it is carried out under direct vision to avoid damage to the ear drum.
Some patients notice mild dizziness during or immediately after the procedure especially if you have a pre-existing perforation, and a small number report a temporary sensation of reduced hearing or tinnitus for a short period afterwards.
Side effects are more common in patients with mastoid cavities, but usually last a few minutes only.
Most patients experience no adverse effects and the risk of side effects is much lower than other methods such as syringing.
Yes please! The removal of any ear wax is easier for both the clinician and patient if you have used olive oil for at least one week prior to your appointment.
If you have used a softening agent prior to the procedure for the recommended time this should not be an issue. However, should you have hard impacted wax which has not been softened adequately it may not be possible to remove all of the wax in one appointment - we will remove as much as is possible and advise you on further treatment options.
The doctor may use additional instruments to attempt to remove your wax which will be discussed with you at the time of the procedure.
It is often the case that someone who has required microsuction will need it repeated at some points.
Intervals for microsuction are 3, 6, 9 and 12 months but the clinician or nurse will advise you during your appointment.
You can book for repeat microsuction at any time.
Ear wax impaction is the commonest cause of these symptoms, but some patients suffer from chronic infections or other skin conditions, and examination by a doctor under a microscope can be required to diagnose this. Our clinicians are all working in regular NHS practice and are able to diagnose and treat any conditions that may be identified.
We only carry out microsuction with an operating microscope and an examination couch, as to carry this procedure out safely we need to be able to have as good a view as possible of the ear. This equipment is not portable so we are only able to offer microsuction in our clinic.
Carrying this out without a proper view of the delicate ear structures is not safe in our opinion.
Of course! Whilst you may find that your favourite clinician may not be available, any of our staff will be happy to see you.
Please check the booking section of our page for details of who has appointments available on the date that you require.
Yes, as we operate from a GP surgery, we are fully accessible.
We are providing this service at cost, to pay for the purchase of the equipment that was required to deliver this service to our NHS patients. The equipment required to do this safely costs around £20,000 and is not funded by the NHS, hence we are offering a private service at cost price to recoup this cost.
East Devon Microsuction & Ear Care
49 Harepath Road. Seaton, Devon. EX12 2RY
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