Earwax is a build-up of cerumen, sebum, dead cells, sweat, hair and foreign material, e.g. dust. Cerumen has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Earwax is a normal physiological substance that protects the ear canal with the quantity produced varying greatly between individuals. Earwax may be either wet or dry. Wet wax is either soft (more common in children) or hard (more common in the elderly). Our ear wax removal and hearing test service ensures the appropriate level of treatment for earwax build up and the restoration of hearing capabilities.
Microsuction & Dry Ear Wax Removal Procedure
- The Audiologist will discuss your patient’s history and ear health with them, and then proceed with assessment using the speculum and binocular vision glasses.
- Images of the ear canals and ear drums (where visible) may be recorded with a video otoscope.
- The Audiologist will attach a suction catheter to the suction unit and begin the ear wax removal process. This can generate noise and does require you to keep your head still.
- The video otoscope may be used to photograph an after picture of the ear canal and ear drum following wax removal.
Micro-suction is a non-invasive, safe, comfortable and effective ear wax removal method for people of all ages, including cases where syringing may be unsuitable or ineffective:
- Where the ear drum is perforated;
- Due to previous ear surgery;
- Where the canals are narrow, curvy and/or hairy;
- Wearers of hearing aids and ear plugs.