Examination
Your consultation will start with a discussion about you, and the issues you are having with your ears or hearing.
This discussion will also ensure that you have understood the assesment and provided informed consent, for the assessment and treatment. Then the practitioner will examine both ears in turn, first the outer and then inner ear canal with an otoscope. They will then discuss with you any conditions found as well as any treatment suggested. At this point you will be able to make a decision about what treatment you would like to receive.
If following this discussion and explanation you want to proceed with any treatment up to and including microsuction it will be performed at the same time. This will save you a further appointment and meaning the you leave feeling clear in the ear.

If suctioning is needed then
- You will sit on a therapy table.
- The clinician will examine your ears using Loupes (magnification glasses).
- A small funnel (a speculum) is held just inside your ear to make the canal easier to view.
- A fine tube connected to the suction machine. The suction is controlled both on the machine and by my fingers to get the perfect setting for your ears. Because of the suction it can be a bit noisy, and you may find it feels a little cool because of the air being drawn in, but it is only for a short time and will not damage your hearing.
- There are a variety of noises as the suction machine draws on the wax; sometimes it’s silent when the wax seals the suction tube, sometimes it pops when the wax suddenly shoots up the tube and sometimes it ‘squeals’ when skin or genetic dry wax vibrates in the tube.
- Throughout the procedure I will be telling you exactly what I’m doing and checking that you are comfortable to make sure everything is just right for you.
After the wax has been cleared you may notice a few things
Sounds may be much louder than before as your hearing improves.
Conversely you may find sounds are slightly more muffled than before – but this is very short term and only lasts a matter of minutes.
Because of the cooler air drawn into your ears, you find yourself feeling slightly unsteady for a minute this is perfectly normal.
If you need a follow-up appointment (perhaps because of a stubborn piece of wax) then we’ll schedule an appointment – please note there is no charge for follow-up appointments as it’s still the same job you’ve already paid for!
FAQ’s
How long does it take?
The procedure can take anything from 5 minutes to 45 minutes it’s impossible to predict because of the many possible conditions the ear and wax may be in. Typically this will be less than 20 minutes.
See more FAQ’s on our FAQ page.