FAQs
WHAT IS EARWAX?
Earwax is a substance secreted within the ears that has antibacterial and lubricating properties. It is needed, but if there is excess earwax then it can cause itching, blocked ears, hearing loss, pain and sometimes dizziness or tinnitus - only then is removal is necessary.
However, some people who are prone to a buildup of earwax or want to prevent this, prefer to get their ears unplugged regularly.
CAN I HAVE MICROSUCTION IF I WEAR HEARING AIDS?
Yes- hearing aid wearers are more prone to building up wax, which can become compacted by the hearing aid dome, and this needs regular management to prevent your hearing becoming further impaired.
DO I NEED MICROSUCTION?
Some symptoms may suggest that you've built up earwax. These include muffled hearing, earache, fullness in the ears, tinnitus and general irritations in the ear could be an indication of blocked ears that would benefit from being Unplugged!
SHOULD I USE COTTON BUDS?
There is a saying in the world of ENT surgery, "Nothing smaller than your elbow should enter your ear!" So, no we do not advise cotton bud use, as it actually pushes earwax down towards the eardrum, compacting it, worsening hearing and potentially injuring the eardrum and ear canal wall.
WHAT IS MICROSUCTION?
In experienced hands, microsuction is the approved and safest procedure to remove ear wax, dead skin or debris from the external ear canal. A microscope allows optimum visualisation of the ear canal and ear drum so that a skilled and experienced practitioner can safely vacuum unwanted material out of the ear canal.
WHAT DOES THE MICROSUCTION PROCEDURE INVOLVE?
After a focused history and examination, a high-powered microscope is used to clearly inspect the ear canal. A speculum is inserted while the patient remains as still as possible to minimise the risk of injury. A suction device is used to gently vacuum the unwanted material out of the ear canal. During the procedure, it is common to hear some squeaking and hissing as the material is cleared, and the suction unit will also hum. You may also feel some gentle movements as the wax is actually suctioned out. After the procedure, patients notice relief of their symptoms and commonly, instant improvement in their hearing. Unplugged ears!
It is advisable to keep the ears dry from water and use olive oil ear drops twice daily for 5-7 days before the procedure to soften any wax for a more comfortable earwax removal experience!
ARE THERE ANY FOREIGN BODIES THAT ARE DANGEROUS IF LEFT INSIDE MY (CHILDS) EARS?
Yes, if there is suspicion of a button battery being in the ear, then please attend your nearest A&E department as a matter of urgency. These can cause local destruction to the ear and important structures close to it. You/your child may need a more formal procedure as an emergency case in hospital.
DO YOU TREAT CHILDREN?
Many children are compliant and can tolerate our treatments, however at present we only provide routine services for those aged 16 years and older.
If there is a pressing need for anyone younger than 16 years old to undergo a procedure (i.e removal of a foreign body or ear wax removal), we do recognise that all children are different and some may be more compliant with our treatments than others. We are happy to have a discussion/assessment to see if any necessary procedure can be done safely. The safety of all our patients is our priority, and we endeavour to minimise risk of harm to them. If a child (or anyone else) is unable to tolerate the procedure, or remain compliant for the duration of it, then the procedure may need to be abandoned in the interest of patient safety.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF MICROSUCTION?
When done well by a skilled professional, we hope that you have a comfortable experience, but all procedures have risks that can inadvertently come about while chasing the desired benefit. These can commonly include mild discomfort, trauma, and slight dizziness. We endeavour to minimise these potential complications by giving you the time you deserve, as well as ensuring you have a highly skilled and experienced ENT doctor performing your procedure.
ARE THERE ANY TECHNIQUES FOR EAR WAX REMOVAL THAT YOU DO NOT RECOMMEND?
We do not recommend ear syringing, wax removal using optical loupes, ear candling or the use of cotton buds. Microsuction, performed by a skilled practitioner, is the gold standard recommendation, and sometimes some specialist instruments will need to be used.
DO YOU TREAT PATIENTS IN NURSING/CARE HOMES?
Yes we do. We provide a mobile service for the convenience of our patients and we also offer a discount.