Microsuction vs Irrigation: What's the Best Way to Remove Ear Wax?

Ear wax is a natural part of ear health, but when it builds up, it can cause discomfort, muffled hearing, or even problems with your hearing aids. At St John's Hearing Aid Centre, we offer safe, gentle, and effective ear wax removal, carried out by experienced, HCPC-registered technicians, so you can hear clearly and comfortably again.

Our Ear Wax Removal Methods

At St John's, we provide two trusted methods: microsuction and irrigation. Both are available at our branches in Grange-over-Sands and Edinburgh, or through our convenient Mobile Ear Wax Removal service, so you can get expert care in the comfort of your own home.

Microsuction

Microsuction is a modern, gentle method that uses high-magnification binocular glasses to give our audiologists a clear view inside your ear canal. A low-pressure suction machine with a fine, sterile probe is then used to gently and precisely remove the wax.

  • Quick and Comfortable: The procedure usually takes just 20-30 minutes, depending on the amount and type of wax, where it's located, and whether we're treating one or both ears.
  • Ideal for Most People: Many clients prefer microsuction because it's quick and doesn't require water in the ear.

Irrigation

Irrigation is a gentle, updated version of the old "syringing" method. We use an electronic irrigation machine that pumps water into the ear canal at a controlled, steady rate to safely dislodge and flush out wax.

  • Safe and Effective: The water is delivered at a comfortable temperature and pressure, making it suitable for most people with soft, unimpacted wax.
  • Preparation Required: For impacted or hard wax, we'll recommend using ear drops for 5-7 days beforehand to soften the wax and make removal easier.

Which Method is Best for Me?

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. You can choose your preferred method, or our technician will recommend the best option based on your ear health and history.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

  • A friendly, professional welcome from our HCPC-registered team
  • A quick assessment of your ears to determine the best removal method
  • Gentle, effective treatment using the latest equipment
  • Clear aftercare advice and support

Appointments usually last around 20-30 minutes, and you'll often notice an immediate improvement in your hearing and comfort.

Mobile Ear Wax Removal - We Come to You

Can't make it to our branches? Our Mobile Ear Wax Removal service brings our expert care to your doorstep. Enjoy all the benefits of professional ear wax removal in the comfort and privacy of your home.

Book Your Appointment Today

Don't let ear wax get in the way of your hearing or your comfort. Contact us to book your ear wax removal appointment, either at one of our branches or in your own home. Our friendly team is always here to answer your questions and help you hear your best.

Contact Us

For impartial advice, to Make an Appointment or to enquire about any of our products and services, please get in touch:

Cumbria, Lothians and Beyond

From our branches in Grange-over-Sands and Edinburgh, our private hearing consultants are ideally placed to serve Cumbria, the Lothians and Fife.

With our Home Visits and Free Home Consultations services, we cover Ambleside, Arnside, Askam-in-Furness, Barrow-in-Furness, Bonnyrigg, Broughton-in-Furness, Carnforth, Coniston, Dalkeith, Dalton-in-Furness, Dunbar, Dunfermline, East Lothian, Edinburgh, Fife, Gorebridge, Grange-over-Sands, Haddington, Hawkshead, Kendal, Keswick, Kirkby Lonsdale, Kirkby Stephen, Kirkcaldy, Leith, Midlothian, Milnthorpe, Millom, Musselburgh, Newtongrange, North Berwick, Peebles, Penicuik, Penrith, Portobello, Prestonpans, Tranent, Ulverston, West Lothian, Windermere and more!