What Is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal?

Ear wax occurs naturally and serves an important purpose, namely to protect the inner parts of the ear by trapping dust and dirt. However, some of us suffer from an excess buildup of ear wax, which can cause its own issues.

Prime among them is hearing loss. In fact, the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) estimates that 2.3 million Brits need to undergo ear wax removal every year. However, a buildup of ear wax doesn’t just make it harder to hear. For some people it causes pain and other discomfort like a ringing in the ears or vertigo.

If you have ever suffered from a buildup of ear wax, you’ll know first hand how uncomfortable it can be, as well as how much your quality of life improves after you deal with the issue.

One of the most effective ways to treat this condition is microsuction ear wax removal, which is a safe and painless way to remove excess ear wax.

How does microsuction work?

A trained pharmacist will use a low-pressure suction probe to remove the ear wax gently. This probe gets inserted into your ear, where it gently sucks the ear wax up and out of your ear. You might hear the ear wax being sucked up, but you shouldn’t feel any pain.

The probe doesn’t go anywhere near your inner ear, so this makes it safe and means that there is no risk of causing damage with the procedure.

Do you need to prepare for microsuction?

The short answer is yes. Ideally you will use ear drops for a few days before your appointment for microsuction to help soften the ear wax and make it easier to remove. But don’t worry, when you come in for an initial examination and consultation, an experienced pharmacist will check that microsuction is an appropriate treatment for you and give you the ear drops you need.

This means that when you arrive for your microsuction appointment, it should be smooth, quick and painless.

How can I tell if microsuction is right for me?

It’s important that you see a qualified professional before going ahead with microsuction for ear wax removal. If you are experiencing hearing loss and believe ear wax to be the cause, it’s essential that you have this confirmed.

One of the main signs that your hearing loss is being caused by a buildup of ear wax is a sense of fullness and slight discomfort in your ear or ears. If ear wax appears to be the problem, then microsuction will help.

After your microsuction appointment, you should notice an immediate difference in your hearing. If you are still experiencing hearing loss, then there could be another underlying cause that needs to be investigated.

There are some people who are more prone to developing excess ear wax, which can also be called impacted ear wax, and who are therefore likely to benefit from microsuction. For instance, those who wear hearing aids, earplugs or earbuds regularly are more likely to experience this issue.

Similarly, those who have a lot of hair in their ears are more likely to find that their ear wax doesn’t fall out naturally. This is also a problem that becomes more common as you get older.