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Why choose Orejas for earwax removal?

Same-day ear wax removal

When your ears are blocked, you don’t want to wait weeks. You want it sorted and you want it sorted right now. That’s why Orejas offers same-day ear wax removal appointments.

Safe ear cleaning

To ensure your safe ear wax removal experience, we only list clinics whose clinicians have the relevant qualifications. We go a step further to display their qualifications on our website. Click the “View qualification” button on any of our clinic pages.

Nationwide coverage

We continue to partner with ear wax removal clinics all over the UK to ensure you always find a clinic close by when you search for “ear wax removal near me” on Google or your favourite search engine.

How it works

Three simple steps to instant relief

1. Enquire now

Get in touch to book an ear wax removal appointment. Typically, we can see you on the same day.

2. We examine and remove wax

Our clinician will examine and remove your ear wax using the most relevant procedure in a gentle and painless way.

3. Instant relief and follow up

Experience instant relief after the procedure. We will provide a complimentary follow-up appointment at no cost to you, if needed.

About earwax

Earwax, which has its medical term as cerumen, is the substance secreted in healthy ear canals. The outer third of the ear canal hosts the sebaceous glands which produce sebum and modified apocrine glands which produce apocrine sweat. When combined, these excretions form what we know as ear wax. It is typically brown or orange in colour.  

The main functions of ear wax are to lubricate and protect the ear canal from bacteria and fungi. The presence of wax in the ear canal is unharmful and due to the migration of skin cells in the ear canal, the ear wax falls out on its own from time to time. Hence the saying “the ears are self-cleaning”.  

In some cases, the migration of these skin cells can be altered when objects such as cotton buds are used to clean the ear. Over time, an accumulation of cerumen in the ear canal can cause hearing loss, itchiness, vertigo, pain, tinnitus, and the feeling of intense pressure in the ears.  

How we clean blocked ears

The main methods used for professional ear cleaning are microsuction, endoscopic suction, syringing, irrigation, and manual instrumentation. There is no one-size-fits-all procedure and your clinician may find it appropriate to use any of these procedures to clean your ears depending on different variables. However, it is important to note that ear syringing is a discredited method of ear wax removal. This is due to its potential side effects such as ear drum perforations, ear canal rupture, and ear infections.

Microsuction

Microsuction is a term that describes an ear wax removal technique where the clinician connects a suction probe to a suction machine to extract wax from the ear using a microscope as the primary viewing equipment. This method of ear wax removal is considered gold-standard.

Endoscopic suction

Endoscopic suction is similar to microsuction in that a suction machine is used to remove the ear wax. However, the viewing mechanism for this procedure is an endoscope. Endoscopic suction is also considered a gold standard method of ear wax removal.

Ear irrigation

Ear irrigation uses water (ideally at body temperature) to gently dislodge and flush out the wax in your ears. This procedure is only ideal for some and our clinicians will check for contraindications before commencing. 

Manual instrumentation

This procedure involves the use of a specially designed tool for ear wax removal such as the Jobson Horne probe or forceps to safely remove any ear wax close to the entrance of the ear canal.

Before your ear wax removal appointment

Use medical-grade olive oil drops for 3-4 days if you do not have a perforation or have had previous ear surgery.

Do not try to clean the ear wax yourself by inserting any small objects such as a cotton buds into your ears.

Do not use ear candles as it has no scientific evidence of benefit for ear wax removal management and this may result in a serious injury.

What to expect at your ear wax removal clinic appointment

You will be seen by a fully-trained and certified professional. The appointment can take around 30 minutes.

  • We will ask a few questions to get a better understanding of your ear health.
  • You may be asked to complete a consent form before the procedure.
  • The healthcare professional will examine your ear using an otoscope.
  • Details on the ear wax removal procedure and the equipment that will be used will be explained to you.
  • The healthcare professional will carry out the ear cleaning procedure and advise you on any necessary aftercare.
  • We will welcome any questions you may have.
Ear wax removal clinic - Orejas UK

Ear wax removal home visits

Unable to visit our clinic? Request an ear wax removal home visit and experience UK’s most comprehensive ear cleaning service at the comfort of your home. Our fully-trained and certified professional will be at your disposal.

  • Once you request a home visit, we will contact you by email or phone to confirm a suitable time for the visit.
  • Our clinician will arrive promptly and have ID for identification.
  • The clinician will disinfect their designated working surface in your home.
  • The rest of the procedure is similar to what happens in-clinic.
  • You will receive the same standard of care as an in-clinic appointment.
Book a home visit

Ear wax removal FAQs

See what people are asking

What is ear microsuction?

“Micro” is derived from the word microscope and refers to the viewing mechanism used during this procedure. “Suction” refers to the machine used to suck out the ear wax. Hence, “ear microsuction” describes an ear wax removal technique where the clinician connects a suction probe to a suction machine to extract wax from the ear using a microscope as the primary viewing equipment.

How does ear microsuction work?

First, the clinician examines your ears with an otoscope or microscope. In more advanced practices, the clinician shows the patient a video of their ear canal.

Next, the clinician explains the procedure to the patient stating that they would use a suction probe connected to a suction machine to extract the wax safely while enhancing their view with a microscope.

Finally, the suction machine is set at a safe pressure level, and the procedure commences.

In most cases, when the procedure is performed well, patients do not report any discomfort. It is important to note that your ears may be sensitive if you have used cotton buds or certain ear drops that can erode your ear canal skin. You must agree with the clinician on a word to indicate if/when you’re in pain. For instance, the word “stop” can be used as a signal to immediately halt the procedure if you feel discomfort. These cases are rare.

Does ear microsuction work?

Ear microsuction is very effective. It is one of the only procedures which guarantees instant relief for most cases of ear wax blockage. Of course, there is the odd occasion where the clinician would not be able to take out all of the wax at the first attempt. This is mainly in cases where the patient has a sensitive ear canal or has not softened the wax with ear drops.

How long does it take?

Typically, patients ears are cleaned in approximately 30 minutes or less. Once complete, patients experience instant relief from the respective issue.

Where can I get ear wax removal near me?

Orejas has ear clinics all over the UK. So, it is most likely we will have an ear wax removal clinic near you. To find an ear wax removal clinic closest to you, type in your postcode or location here and choose your preferred clinic.

How much does ear wax removal cost in the UK?

The cost of ear wax removal varies across the UK. The complexity of your case can also affect how much you’ll pay to remove your ear wax. With Orejas, rest assured you are getting a fair price for the procedure.

Does ear wax removal hurt?

When the proper precautions are taken, such as using softening drops before the procedure is performed, it is unlikely that ear wax removal will hurt.

Do hopi candles remove ear wax?

No, ear candling is a dangerous procedure. Please avoid it.

How often can I have microsuction ear wax removal?

You should visit the ear clinic if you notice any of the following symptoms irrespective of how recent you have had microsuction:

  • decreased hearing ability
  • tinnitus
  • earache
  • pressure in your ear

However, to answer the question, the time between wax build-up for everyone varies. Some patients may need the procedure every three months, while others may only need it once every few years.

What is the difference between ear microsuction, ear syringing, and ear irrigation?

There is a fundamental difference between ear syringing and ear irrigation, although these terms are often interchangeably used. Ear syringing refers to the use of a manual syringe and water to remove ear wax. Ear irrigation involves removing ear wax using an ear irrigation machine. This machine uses water to dislodge ear wax at a safe pressure level. Ear syringing is no longer recommended.

The consensus amongst professional ear wax removers is that removing ear wax with a suction machine is the safest option. However, there are cases where ear wax irrigation or using other instruments for ear wax removal is appropriate, especially when performed with the correct equipment.

Is ear cleaning offered in the NHS?

Ear cleaning is no longer one of the core services GPs are obliged to provide. The general advice on the NHS website is to use olive oil drops to encourage the natural mechanism of the ear canal to remove the wax. While this can get rid of the wax in some cases, impacted ear wax needs to be professionally removed, especially if it is causing a hearing loss, blocked ear sensation, pain or discomfort.

Recently, patients have reported increased difficulty accessing ear wax removal services in the NHS. Most GP practices or pharmacists do not offer ear cleaning services. While some NHS ear, nose, and throat departments still offer ear cleaning, priority is given to patients with more complex ear-related issues who have ear wax removal as part of their routine treatment. For instance, patients who have had a mastoidectomy in the past are more likely to get free ear wax removal on NHS. Most GPs recommend private ear wax removal for their patients. Usually, you do not need a referral for ear wax removal.

You can book a same-day appointment with us now!

What is the benefit of having ear wax removal by a professional?

The benefit of using audiologists, specialist nurse, and ENT consultants to undertake ear wax removal is if there is no ear wax blockage found these professionals are able to perform additional investigations which can lead to a diagnosis and solution within the same visit.

For instance some patients who attend clinic thinking they have lots of ear wax hence a hearing loss end up being diagnosed with an ear infection or sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).  A SSNHL is an emergency and there is, typically  a 50% chance of your hearing reverting to normal within the first two weeks if diagnosed swiftly.

By having  a qualified professional care for your ears you will ensure if there are any issues outside of ear wax blockage, you will maximise the chances for your hearing to revert to normal. Our clinician can signpost you to A & E in the case of an emergency or arrange for you to be seen at a private ENT clinic. 

Will my tinnitus go away after removing ear wax?

Tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying condition and not a condition on its own. Hence, there can be various causes of tinnitus, with ear wax being one of them. If ear wax is the cause of your tinnitus, we expect that your tinnitus will go away after your ear wax removal procedure. Otherwise, we will offer you a comprehensive hearing consultation at an additional fee.

Do I need to use drops to soften my ear wax before the appointment?

Yes. It is important to soften your ear wax with pre-treatment drops before microsuction. This increases our chances of removing the ear wax at your first appointment and makes for a more pleasurable experience.

There are many over-the-counter ear drops, but we only recommend olive oil drops or sprays such as Earol. Olive oil lubricates the ear canal and helps the ear wax to slip out easily during the microsuction procedure.

From experience, other ear drops such as sodium bicarbonate, hydrogen peroxide, and saline base drops should only be used for very hard wax and for a limited period.

The best technique to apply olive oil for maximum efficacy:

  • Tilt your head completely to the side and apply a few drops or spray in the ear. Leave your head tilted or lying down for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Apply twice daily for at least two days before your appointment. Where you fail to apply the olive oil before your appointment, most clinics would offer olive oil application on-site.

Do doctors still do ear irrigation?

Some clinics no longer offer ear irrigation as microsuction is now considered a safer alternative.

However, in cases where the clinician judges microsuction as unsafe, it is still accepted practice to use irrigation. In such instances, our clinician will inform you and ask for any contraindications to ensure the procedure is safe for you.

Why do your clinics not offer ear syringing?

Ear syringing is now a discredited ear wax removal procedure due to its inherent risks. It has been linked to increased ear infections, ear drum perforations, and trauma to the ear canal. Some patients with blocked ears have often complained that even after undergoing the ear syringing procedure at a private clinic, their ears were still blocked.

You can now book a safer alternative at our ear wax removal clinics. We understand that people still use ear syringing as a term to describe all ear wax removal procedures.