Ear Wax Removal
‘At TP Hearing your ears are in safe hands’
The charge for this appointment is £60 for one or both ears*
Please note this appointment will take between 40-60mins
*Please note a consultation fee of £30 applies in the instance where no wax is removed* (this is because a 60min slot is reserved and the use of disposables is the same for one or both ears)
Primary Services
What is microsuction?
- Microsuction is the removal of ear wax (cerumen) using a fine wand attached to a low suction machine.
- It is essentially a ‘micro’ (mini) hoover which can gently and effectively ‘suck’ out excessive wax
What to expect before, during and after your appointment?
Before your appointment,
- You will be asked a series of medical questions. This will be to ensure you are suitable for microsuction
During,
- You will be shown a live video recording of your ear canals before and after your procedure
- You will sign a consent form
- Your ear will be examined prior to microsuction
- The procedure itself can be noisy and may cause some slight discomfort as the skin in your ear canal is very sensitive particularly if it’s been there for some time
- We will use an ENT grade microscope to see inside your ear whilst the latest CE certified microsuction machine is used to safely remove the wax in your ears
- We may need to use other purpose-built tools to help remove the wax such as crocodile forceps.
After,
- You will be shown your ear canals on a large screen
- Your hearing will be screened to detect any potential hearing loss
- You will receive a copy of your hearing screen results
- Advice will be given to further manage your wax and look after your hearing health
What is earwax?
Wax is medically known as ‘cerumen’ and is a waxy substance produced by specialised sweat glands in your ear canal. The secretions from the glands mix with debris, dead skin, and bacteria to form wax as we know and see it! Earwax has antimicrobial properties, repels water and acts as a lubricant to prevent dry itchy ears. The main purpose for ear wax is to protect your eardrum and ear canal from debris, dust, bacteria and contact with water. The tiny hairs in your ear canal are there for a reason, they help to trap the dirt and the dead skin. Normally as our jaw moves with daily activities such as chewing and talking the wax is loosened and will migrate outwards towards the entrance of the ear canal where it can be safely washed away or removed with cotton buds.
Symptoms of a blockage
Sometimes the ear canals can produce excessive wax which can contribute to a blockage. You may experience one or more of the following symptoms or varying degrees with a blocked ear
- Hearing loss
- Earache or a blocked feeling
- Ringing or buzzing in your ears or head (tinnitus)
- Vertigo (feeling sick and dizzy)
Causes
The ear canals may become blocked for one or a combination of reasons listed below:
- Narrow or damaged ear canals
- Hearing aid or other ‘in ear’ device user
- Bony blockages like polyps or exostoses
- Inflammation from infections
- Eczema/skin conditions which affect the scalp or around your ears
- Excessive hair
Can I prevent wax build up?
Not really. Wax is involuntarily produced by the ears to protect them. However excessive wax can become a nuisance, we get it!
You can follow the following steps to help manage the wax build up before it becomes a real issue.
- Do not use cotton buds! They will only push the wax further down lengthening the treatment time and making your problem worse. Cotton buds should only be used to clean the outer ear- the bits you can see in the mirror.
- Avoid putting anything in your ear to scratch it
- Get your ears checked if you experience any of the symptoms
- If you know you produce excessive wax- make regular 6 monthly appointments to have it checked and removed
Better Hearing is Our Mission
Appointments are Available.
01685 255373
info@tphearing.co.uk
3 Victoria Square, Aberdare, CF44 7LA
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