Blocked ears can affect hearing and cause pressure, ringing or an uncomfortable feeling of fullness. An examination can help establish whether a build-up of ear wax is contributing to your symptoms.
At Blemish Clinic, we provide ear examinations and microsuction ear wax removal in Ramsbottom. This guide explains the symptoms to look out for, how we examine your ears and what happens before, during and after an appointment.
Signs of ear wax build-up
Ear wax is normal and helps protect the ear canal. Sometimes, however, excess wax accumulates and causes symptoms such as:
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- A blocked or full sensation in the ear
- Ear discomfort or pressure
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear, known as tinnitus
- Itching in the ear canal
- Dizziness in some cases
- Difficulty hearing conversations clearly
- Needing to increase the volume on the television or radio
These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have excess wax. An examination helps establish whether wax may be part of the problem.
Examining your ears with digital otoscopy
Before microsuction, your ears are carefully examined to assess the ear canal, identify any wax build-up and determine whether treatment is appropriate.
At Blemish Clinic, we use the TympaHealth system for digital otoscopy. This provides a clear, high-quality view of the ear canal and eardrum. Digital images can also be captured as part of the examination.
If something is identified that needs further assessment or treatment outside the scope of the appointment, you will be advised about the appropriate next steps.
How microsuction works
Microsuction removes excess or impacted ear wax using a small suction device while the practitioner maintains a clear view of the ear canal.
Unlike traditional ear syringing or irrigation, it does not require water to be introduced into the ear. The suction tip is carefully positioned within the ear canal and the wax is gradually removed.
You may hear noise from the suction device during treatment. Because it is being used inside the ear canal, it can sound quite loud; this is normal.
Once the wax has been removed, the ear can be examined again to check the ear canal and eardrum.
Preparing for your appointment
Softening ear wax beforehand can make microsuction easier and more comfortable, particularly when the wax is dry or impacted. You may be advised to use olive oil ear drops or a product such as Earol for several days before your appointment.
Do not use ear drops without appropriate advice if you know or suspect you have a perforated eardrum, have recently had ear surgery or have an active ear infection. If you are unsure whether drops are suitable, please ask before your appointment.
Let the practitioner know about previous perforations, ear surgery, infections or other ear conditions before treatment.
What happens at the appointment?
- Consultation: we discuss your symptoms and relevant ear health history.
- Examination: both ears are examined to establish whether wax is present and whether microsuction is appropriate.
- Wax removal: if excessive wax is identified and it is appropriate to proceed, microsuction is used to carefully remove it from one or both ears as required.
- Final check: the ears are checked again after treatment, and you receive advice about any further assessment needed.
Appointment times vary with the amount and consistency of the wax and whether one or both ears need treatment. Most people can return to their usual daily activities immediately afterwards.
Aftercare and recovery
Most people require no specific recovery time after microsuction. The ear canal may occasionally feel slightly sensitive, particularly after a significant amount of impacted wax has been removed.
You will receive appropriate advice after your appointment. If anything found during the examination needs further assessment, the practitioner will explain the next steps.
Avoid inserting cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal. Cotton buds can push wax further in and may cause irritation or injury.
Ear wax removal near Bury and Rossendale
Every appointment at Blemish Clinic includes an assessment before treatment, so wax removal is carried out carefully and only when appropriate in a clinical setting.
We are based in Ramsbottom and welcome clients from Bury, Rawtenstall, Haslingden, Rossendale and surrounding areas of Greater Manchester and Lancashire. You can meet the Blemish Clinic team or contact us to ask about an appointment.
Microsuction ear wax removal FAQs
What is microsuction ear wax removal?
Microsuction is a method of removing excess or impacted ear wax using a small suction device while the practitioner has a clear view of the ear canal. Unlike ear irrigation or traditional syringing, microsuction does not use water.
How do I know if I need ear wax removal?
Symptoms of excessive ear wax can include muffled hearing, a blocked sensation, pressure or discomfort, tinnitus, itching and difficulty hearing conversations clearly. An ear examination can establish whether a build-up of wax may be contributing to your symptoms.
Do you examine my ears before microsuction?
Yes. Your ears are examined before wax removal to confirm whether wax is present and whether microsuction is appropriate. The ears can also be examined again following treatment.
Does microsuction hurt?
Microsuction is generally well tolerated. You may feel movement or a mild pulling sensation as the wax is removed. The ear canal is sensitive, so some temporary discomfort may occasionally occur, particularly if the wax is very hard, impacted or positioned close to the eardrum.
Is microsuction noisy?
Yes. Because the suction device is being used inside the ear canal, it can sound quite loud during treatment. This is normal.
Do I need to use olive oil before my appointment?
Using olive oil drops or a product such as Earol for several days before your appointment can help soften hard or impacted wax and make removal easier. You will be advised whether this is appropriate for you.
Can I use ear drops if I have a perforated eardrum?
You should seek appropriate advice before putting ear drops into an ear if you have, or suspect you may have, a perforated eardrum. Please let the practitioner know about any previous perforations, ear surgery, infections or other ear conditions before treatment.
Can you remove wax from both ears?
Yes. Both ears are examined and wax can be removed from one or both ears if required and clinically appropriate.
What happens if I don’t have ear wax?
Your ears will still be examined to establish whether wax is present. If wax is not responsible for your symptoms, you will be advised about appropriate next steps if further assessment is required.
Can ear wax affect my hearing?
Yes. A significant build-up of ear wax can obstruct the ear canal and cause temporary reduction or muffling of hearing. Removing the obstruction may improve hearing when wax is the cause.
Can ear wax cause tinnitus?
A build-up of ear wax can sometimes contribute to ringing or buzzing in the ear. However, tinnitus has many possible causes, so persistent tinnitus should be appropriately assessed.
Should I use cotton buds to remove ear wax?
No. Cotton buds can push wax further into the ear canal rather than removing it and may cause irritation or injury. Avoid inserting cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal.
How long does an ear wax removal appointment take?
Appointment times vary depending on the amount and consistency of the wax and whether one or both ears require treatment. Your appointment includes consultation, examination of the ears and microsuction where required.
Can I return to normal activities after microsuction?
Yes. Most people can return to their usual daily activities immediately after ear wax removal.
Is microsuction suitable for everyone?
Microsuction is suitable for many people, but individual ear health and medical history need to be considered. Your ears will be examined before treatment to determine whether it is appropriate to proceed.
Where can I have microsuction ear wax removal near Bury?
Blemish Clinic provides microsuction ear wax removal in Ramsbottom, conveniently located for clients travelling from Bury, Rawtenstall, Haslingden, Rossendale and surrounding areas.
Do you offer ear wax removal in Ramsbottom?
Yes. Blemish Clinic provides professional microsuction ear wax removal in Ramsbottom, including an examination of the ears before treatment.
Arrange an ear examination
If blocked ears or changes in hearing are bothering you, contact Blemish Clinic about an ear examination. We can advise on preparation and assess whether microsuction is appropriate for you.
