Microsuction for ear wax

Ear wax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It’s made up of secretions, dead skin cells, and other substances like cholesterol.

It helps maintain ear health by trapping debris before it reaches the eardrum, protecting the skin inside the ear canal, and helping to reduce the risk of infection by limiting bacterial growth.

What is microsuction ear wax removal?

Microsuction ear wax removal is a simple procedure to clear wax from the ear canal. A microscope is gently placed in the ear so your doctor can guide in a thin suction device and remove the wax.

Signs of needing ear wax removal 

Your ears are self-cleaning. In most cases, ear wax naturally moves out of the ear through everyday jaw movements like talking and chewing. However, wax can sometimes build up and cause blockage, leading to symptoms such as:

• A feeling that your ear is blocked, full, painful or uncomfortable
• Difficulty hearing conversations clearly
• Dizziness or a sense of imbalance
• Itching in or around the ear
• Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Reduced or muffled hearing

Is microsuction right for you?

Microsuction of the ears may be suitable if you have symptoms of ear wax build-up and the wax is hardened and unlikely to clear on its own. A healthcare professional will assess your ears, symptoms, and medical history to determine suitability.

Microsuction is not suitable for everyone eg if you have an active infection, a perforated eardrum, sudden hearing loss, significant ear pain, or have had ear surgery.

Benefits of microsuction

Microsuction can help to ease symptoms of a blocked ear, which can improve hearing loss, provide relief from pain and discomfort, and may reduce ringing or buzzing sounds.

There is also a lower risk of an infection or allergic reaction compared to other ear wax removal methods as nothing is used to flush your ear.

Microsuction for ears is a quick procedure carried out by a trained professional. The clinician will examine your ears to locate the wax and check your ear canal. Anaesthetic is not generally needed.

Your doctor will use a small suction device and either a microscope or magnifying equipment so they can see inside your ear. The tip of the suction device will be carefully placed into your ear canal and guided to remove ear wax build-up.

The procedure typically takes around 5–10 minutes per ear. Both ears can usually be treated during the same appointment if necessary.

Before the procedure

Before the procedure, you’ll have a consultation to discuss your symptoms and medical history to determine if microsuction is suitable. Your ears will be examined, and in some cases, further assessment or alternative advice may be recommended.

Medications

Tell your clinician of any medical conditions and medications you’re taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter treatments, and supplements.

Food and drink

Microsuction doesn’t involve sedation or anaesthesia, so there are usually no restrictions on eating or drinking beforehand.

Preparing for the day

You may be asked to use ear drops or an olive oil-based spray for several days before your appointment to soften the wax and make removal easier. Avoid using cotton buds or inserting anything into your ears, as this can push wax in deeper.

Who will be involved?

Your care will be provided by a specialist, GMC-registered healthcare professional trained in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) procedures. They’ll guide you through each step, answer your questions, and tailor advice and treatment to your needs.

The procedure

How long does the procedure take?

Microsuction usually takes around 15–20 minutes. The exact duration can vary depending on:

• The amount of earwax present
• How impacted or hardened the wax is
• Whether one or both ears require treatment

Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia is not usually needed for microsuction, so you’ll be awake during the procedure. Treatment is generally well tolerated and most people don’t need the area to be numbed.

Pain during and after microsuction

Microsuction is not usually painful. You may feel a gentle pulling or pressure as the wax is removed. The suction device works like a small vacuum cleaner, so it can sound quite noisy when it’s in your ear.

After treatment, you may experience mild discomfort, sensitivity, or a temporary feeling of fullness, but these effects don’t usually last long. If needed, your clinician can advise on simple pain relief and aftercare.

What happens straight after the procedure

After microsuction, your clinician will check that the wax has been fully removed. Many people notice an immediate improvement in their hearing. You can usually leave after your appointment and return to normal activities straight away.

Your hospital stay

Microsuction is carried out as an outpatient appointment, so you won’t need to stay in hospital. Ear wax removal is typically completed in a single appointment and you can go home the same day.

Microsuction is a low-risk procedure when carried out by a trained clinician, but as with any procedure, there are possible risks and side effects.

There is a small risk of temporary discomfort or irritation in the ear canal. Rarely, symptoms such as mild changes in hearing may occur for a short time, but these usually settle on their own.

Tips to prevent ear wax build-up

Your ears should self-clean naturally through jaw movement such as talking and chewing. You can reduce your chances of ear wax build-up by:

• Avoiding the insertion of cotton buds or objects into your ears
• Using ear drops or olive oil-based spray to soften wax if you often experience build-up
• Having regular ear checks if you’re prone to blocked ears

Do

• Bring your medical history and list of medications to your appointment
• Clean the outer ear only with a soft cloth
• Follow any aftercare instructions provided
• Seek advice from a healthcare professional if unsure about symptoms or ear wax
• Use ear drops or olive oil sprays if recommended

Don’t

• Attempt to remove hardened ear wax at home
• Ignore ongoing symptoms such as hearing loss, pain, or dizziness
• Use cotton buds or insert anything into the ear, including ear candles

Side effects

Side effects from microsuction are rare but may include temporary dizziness or faintness, minor ear or eardrum irritation with slight bleeding, brief changes in hearing due to the noise of the suction device, and a small risk of infection.

These effects are uncommon and usually short-lived.

Why choose Spire Healthcare?

Our team of ENT specialists provide personalised, expert care across UK hospitals, clinics, and specialist centres, focusing on clear communication and a patient-centred approach.

Alternative treatments

Other treatments include ear drops to soften wax, ear syringing or irrigation (using water to flush wax out), and ear curettage (manual removal with a small instrument). In some cases, ear wax may also clear naturally without treatment.

How does microsuction differ from other procedures?

Microsuction removes ear wax using a suction device rather than water, making it a suitable option for those who can’t have water in the ear. This includes individuals with a history of irrigation complications, middle ear infections, certain ear surgeries, a perforated eardrum, or a cleft palate.

Another procedure, ear curettage, involves using a small handheld instrument (a curette) to manually scoop or lift the wax out of the ear canal.