A Full Range of Specialist Ear Care
Every service is delivered by Eleni Kiromitis, a Level 6 qualified Ear Care Specialist. Whether you need a one-off treatment, ongoing maintenance, or urgent help with a blocked ear, we are here for you — in clinic or at your door.
Professional Ear Wax Removal
in North Devon
Ear wax removal is the professional removal of excess cerumen from the ear canal using safe, clinically proven methods. When wax builds up to the point where it blocks the ear canal — causing muffled hearing, discomfort, tinnitus, or difficulty using hearing aids — it needs to be removed by a trained specialist using the right equipment and technique.
At Earwax Removal Devon, we provide two NICE-recommended methods: microsuction (a dry, suction-based technique performed under direct visualisation) and ear irrigation (a gentle, controlled warm-water method). Both are carried out by Eleni Kiromitis, a Level 6 qualified Ear Care Specialist.
If you have been struggling with blocked ears, we understand how frustrating and isolating it can be. Difficulty hearing conversations, a persistent ringing or fullness in the ear, and the worry that something might be seriously wrong are all common experiences among our patients. Many have tried olive oil drops without success. Many are confused about where to turn now that most GP practices no longer offer ear syringing. You are in the right place.
Earwax Removal Devon is a specialist-led service — not a GP add-on and not an optician side offering. Our clinic is based at Harmonia Health & Osteopathy in South Molton, and we bring our full clinical equipment directly to your home across North Devon.
You do not need a GP referral. Simply book directly — we can often see you on the same day. Pricing is fully transparent with no hidden charges. Everything we do is guided by NICE clinical guidelines.
Ear Care Qualification
Highest specialist certification
NG207 Compliant
Evidence-based methods only
Day Appointments
Often available — book direct
Referral Needed
Self-refer in minutes
Eleni Kiromitis
Level 6 Ear Care Specialist · Harmonia Health & Osteopathy, South Molton
Practitioner profileHow Do You Know If You Have Ear Wax Build-Up?
Ear wax build-up develops gradually. Many patients are unsure whether their symptoms are caused by wax or something else. These are the most common signs.
Blocked or Full Feeling
One or both ears feel plugged or pressurised
Muffled Hearing
Difficulty following conversations or hearing clearly
Earache
A dull, persistent pain or discomfort in the ear
Tinnitus
Ringing, buzzing, or humming sounds in the ear
Itching
Persistent itchiness deep inside the ear canal
Hearing Aid Problems
Feedback, poor fit, or reduced performance
Pressure or Imbalance
A feeling of pressure or mild dizziness related to the ears
When to seek urgent medical advice
These symptoms may indicate a condition other than ear wax and should be assessed by your GP or at A&E without delay.
For a full guide to recognising blocked ear symptoms, visit our symptoms of blocked ears page.
What Causes Ear Wax Build-Up?
Ear wax — known clinically as cerumen — is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It plays a protective role, trapping dust, debris, and bacteria before they reach the eardrum.
In most people, old wax migrates naturally out of the ear canal. In some individuals, this self-cleaning process is disrupted, leading to a build-up that blocks the canal and causes symptoms.
Narrow or Shaped Ear Canals
Some people are born with ear canals that trap wax more easily, making natural migration difficult.
Hearing Aids & In-Ear Headphones
Regular use pushes wax deeper and prevents the natural outward migration process.
Cotton Buds
Cotton buds compact wax against the eardrum rather than removing it — making the problem significantly worse.
Age-Related Changes
Ear wax becomes drier and harder as we age, making it harder for the ear to clear naturally.
Overproduction of Cerumen
Genetic factors or skin conditions such as eczema can cause the glands to produce excess wax.
How We Remove Ear Wax
Both methods are recommended by NICE and are the same techniques used in NHS ENT departments. Eleni will examine your ears and recommend the best approach for your situation.
Microsuction
A dry procedure using a fine, low-pressure suction device to gently draw wax out of the ear canal under direct visualisation. Eleni views the ear canal in real time, ensuring precise, controlled removal.
Widely regarded as the gold standard for ear wax removal. Safe for patients with perforated eardrums, grommets, or a history of ear surgery. No water is used, so the risk of infection is very low.
Typically 15–20 minutes per ear. Most patients notice immediate improvement in hearing.
Ear Irrigation
A gentle method using a controlled flow of body-temperature water, delivered through an electronic irrigator, to soften and flush ear wax from the canal. This is a modern, pressure-controlled technique — not the same as the manual ear syringing previously available at GP surgeries.
Offered when microsuction is not the most suitable option, or when the patient has a preference. Works particularly well when patients have used olive oil drops in the days before their appointment.
Not suitable for patients with a perforated eardrum, grommets, or a history of ear surgery.
Microsuction vs Irrigation: At a Glance
| Microsuction | Ear Irrigation | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Dry suction under direct visualisation | Controlled warm-water flow via electronic irrigator |
| NICE recommended | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Suitable for perforated eardrums | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Suitable for grommets / ear surgery | ✓ Yes (specialist assessment) | ✗ No |
| Best for hard, impacted wax | ✓ Yes | ~ Less effective |
| Water used | ✗ No — dry procedure | ✓ Yes — body-temperature |
| Typical duration | 15–20 min per ear | 15–20 min per ear |
| Available at this clinic | ✓ Primary method | ✓ When appropriate |
Read the full guide: microsuction vs irrigation — which is right for you?
What Happens at an Ear Wax Removal Appointment?
Your appointment at Earwax Removal Devon follows a clear, straightforward process. Most appointments take 20–30 minutes in total.
Book your appointment
You can book online, by phone, or by email. No GP referral is needed — simply get in touch directly. Same-day appointments are often available.
Prepare your ears (optional but recommended)
Using olive oil drops twice a day for 2–3 days before your appointment can help soften the wax, making removal quicker and more comfortable. Do not use cotton buds.
Ear examination and consultation
Eleni will examine both ears using an otoscope, assess the type and position of any wax, and discuss her findings with you. She will then recommend the most suitable removal method for your specific situation.
Ear wax removal
The chosen method — microsuction, irrigation, or a combination of both — is performed. You will be able to hear the difference immediately in most cases.
Aftercare advice
Eleni will provide personalised aftercare guidance, explain what to expect in the hours after treatment, and advise on how to reduce the likelihood of future build-up.
Read the full appointment guide, including what to bring and how to prepare, on our what to expect at your appointment page. For advice on using ear drops before your visit, see our guide to ear drops for ear wax.
Why Choose Earwax Removal Devon?
Specialist-Led Care, Not a Side Service
Your ears will be treated by Eleni Kiromitis, who holds a Level 6 qualification in ear care — the highest specialist certification available. This is not a service delivered by a GP, practice nurse, or optician as an add-on to another role. Eleni is a dedicated Ear Care Specialist whose entire clinical focus is the safe, effective management of ear wax and ear health. The Level 6 qualification represents advanced training in ear anatomy, pathology, safe removal techniques, and patient assessment.
NICE-Recommended, Evidence-Based Methods
Both microsuction and warm-water irrigation are recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as safe and effective methods of ear wax removal. These are the same methods used in NHS ENT departments. When you visit Earwax Removal Devon, you receive care that meets the same clinical standards — delivered without the wait.
No GP Referral Required
You do not need a referral from your GP to see us. Many patients come to us because they cannot get a GP appointment quickly, or because their GP practice no longer offers ear wax removal. At Earwax Removal Devon, you can self-refer directly and be seen on the same day in many cases.
Home Visit Service Across Devon
We bring our full clinical microsuction and irrigation equipment directly to your home. Our home visit ear care service covers Barnstaple, Bideford, Crediton, Tiverton, Great Torrington, Ilfracombe, and surrounding areas. This is particularly valuable for elderly patients, those with mobility difficulties, parents with young children, and anyone who would otherwise face a long drive to the nearest clinic.
Rigorous Infection Prevention
We follow strict hygiene and infection-prevention protocols. Single-use consumables are used for every patient. All reusable equipment is sterilised between appointments. Our clinical governance procedures ensure your safety at every stage of the appointment.
Transparent, Published Pricing
Our prices are published clearly and there are no hidden costs. You know exactly what you will pay before you book. There are no surprise charges, and we will always explain the full cost before any treatment begins.
Learn more about Eleni's qualifications and approach on her practitioner profile page.
Transparent Pricing
We believe the cost of hearing clearly should never be a surprise. Our prices are straightforward, published in advance, and include everything — the assessment, removal from one or both ears, and aftercare advice.
Clinic Visit
£60
30-minute appointment at our South Molton clinic. One or both ears. Includes ear health assessment. Microsuction or irrigation.
Home Visit
From £75
Within 10 miles of South Molton: £75. 10–20 miles: £85. Same clinical standard, same equipment — in your own home.
Assessment Only
£30
Comprehensive ear examination without removal. Professional advice and treatment recommendations. Half price if no wax is found.
For full pricing details, including home visit coverage areas and what is included in each appointment, visit our pricing page.
If you previously had your ears syringed free on the NHS, read why the NHS stopped ear syringing and what your options are now.
Home Visit Ear Wax Removal Across Devon
Not everyone can easily travel to a clinic — and not everyone should have to. Our home visit service brings specialist ear wax removal directly to your door. Eleni arrives with the same professional-grade microsuction and irrigation equipment used in the clinic, so you receive exactly the same quality of care in the comfort of your own home.
The home visit service is especially popular with:
- Elderly patients and those with limited mobility
- Parents who prefer treatment for their child at home
- Hearing aid users who need regular maintenance appointments
- Patients in rural areas where driving to the nearest clinic would take 30 minutes or more
Areas We Cover for Home Visits
- Barnstaple and surrounding villages
- Bideford, Northam, and Westward Ho!
- Crediton and mid Devon
- Tiverton and surrounding areas
- Great Torrington and rural North Devon
- Ilfracombe and the North Devon coast
For full details including coverage, pricing, and how to book, visit our home visit locations page.
Ear Wax Removal Across North Devon
Our clinic is based at Harmonia Health & Osteopathy in South Molton, with home visits available across North Devon. Whether you visit us in clinic or we come to you, you will receive the same specialist care from Eleni Kiromitis.
We serve patients across the following areas:
- Ear wax removal in South Molton — our primary clinic location
- Ear wax removal in Barnstaple — clinic and home visits
- Ear wax removal in Bideford — home visits available
- Ear wax removal in Crediton — mid Devon coverage
- Ear wax removal in Tiverton — home visits available
- Ear wax removal in Great Torrington — rural North Devon
- Ear wax removal in Ilfracombe — North Devon coast
Our Clinic
Harmonia Health & Osteopathy
South Molton, Devon
For a full overview of all areas we cover, visit our ear wax removal across North Devon page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Wax Removal
Do I need to have my ear wax removed?
Not always. Ear wax is natural and protective. However, if wax has built up to the point where it is causing symptoms — blocked hearing, earache, tinnitus, or difficulty using hearing aids — professional removal is recommended. If you are unsure, book an ear health assessment and Eleni will advise you.
Can ear wax cause hearing loss?
Yes. When ear wax becomes impacted, it can block the ear canal and cause conductive hearing loss. This is a temporary form of hearing loss that typically resolves immediately or within 24–48 hours after the wax is removed. If hearing loss persists after removal, Eleni will discuss whether further investigation is needed.
Is microsuction painful?
Microsuction is not painful for the vast majority of patients. You will hear a suction noise during the procedure, which some patients find slightly unusual at first but quickly get used to. If the wax is very hard or deeply impacted, you may feel brief, mild discomfort. Eleni will stop and adjust her approach at any time if you are uncomfortable.
What is the difference between microsuction and irrigation?
Microsuction uses dry suction under direct visualisation; irrigation uses a controlled flow of warm water. Microsuction is suitable for a wider range of patients, including those with perforated eardrums. Irrigation is not suitable in certain circumstances. Our full microsuction vs irrigation comparison explains the differences in detail.
Is ear wax removal safe?
Yes. Both microsuction and irrigation are recommended by NICE as safe methods of ear wax removal when performed by a trained professional. Serious complications are very rare. At Earwax Removal Devon, Eleni follows rigorous infection-prevention protocols and will only proceed with treatment when it is clinically appropriate.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with us without a referral from your GP. Many of our patients come to us specifically because they cannot get a timely GP appointment or because their GP practice no longer offers ear wax removal.
How much does ear wax removal cost?
Our pricing is fully transparent and published on our website. Costs depend on whether you visit us in clinic or request a home visit, and whether you need one or both ears treated.
What if no wax is found?
If Eleni examines your ears and finds no wax, an ear health assessment fee applies rather than the full treatment cost. She will still carry out a thorough examination, discuss what she has found, and advise on any next steps or onward referral if needed.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Using olive oil drops — two to three drops in each affected ear, twice daily for two to three days before your appointment — can help soften the wax and make removal easier. Do not use cotton buds.
How soon will my hearing improve after wax removal?
Most patients notice an immediate improvement. In some cases, it may take 24–48 hours for any residual fluid to settle and hearing to return fully to normal. Eleni will provide aftercare instructions so you know exactly what to expect after your appointment.
Can you remove a foreign object from an ear?
Yes. Eleni is trained to safely remove foreign objects from the ear canal using microsuction and specialist instruments. This is common in children (beads, small toy parts, food) and in adults (broken hearing aid tips, cotton bud fragments). Do not attempt to remove a foreign object yourself — this risks pushing it deeper or damaging the ear canal.
Is ear wax removal safe for children?
Yes. Microsuction is gentle and safe for children when performed by a qualified specialist. Eleni takes extra time with younger patients, explains the process clearly to both parent and child, and will only proceed when the child is comfortable. Home visits are also available, which many parents find easier than bringing a child to a clinic.
How often should I have my ears checked?
This depends on your individual pattern of wax production. Some patients need ear wax removal once a year; others — particularly hearing aid users, those with narrow ear canals, and older adults — may benefit from appointments every three to six months. Our ear wax maintenance programme provides scheduled check-ups at intervals tailored to your needs.
Qualification
Certificate in Ear Care (Level 6)
Eleni Kiromitis, Ear Care Specialist
Eleni holds a Certificate in Ear Care (Level 6) — the advanced clinical qualification for this specialism — and practises in full compliance with NICE guideline NG207 on earwax management. She carries full professional indemnity insurance and performs every procedure under direct visualisation, so nothing is done blindly.
You know that moment when a clinician actually explains what they're seeing, rather than just getting on with it? That's how Eleni works. She'll tell you what she finds, what she's doing, and — if there's nothing to remove — she'll tell you that too. No unnecessary treatment. No surprises. No pressure.
What Our Patients Say
5.0 · Trusted by patients across Devon
"Eleni was wonderful. I was nervous about the procedure but she explained everything clearly and it was completely painless. I can hear so much better now!"
Margaret T.
Barnstaple
"Excellent service from start to finish. The home visit was so convenient as I have mobility issues. Professional, friendly, and effective."
David H.
South Molton
"I'd been struggling with blocked ears for weeks. Got a same-day appointment and left feeling like a new person. Highly recommend!"
Sarah M.
Bideford
Ear Health Guides and Expert Advice
Honest, evidence-based articles written by Eleni. No jargon, no filler — just the information you actually need to understand and look after your ears.
Ready to Hear Clearly Again?
Don't let blocked ears affect your quality of life. Whether you've been struggling for weeks or your hearing has changed suddenly, professional ear wax removal can make an immediate difference.
No GP referral is needed. Same-day appointments are available. Our pricing is transparent — £60 for a clinic visit, from £75 for a home visit.
Earwax Removal Devon — Harmonia Health & Osteopathy, 73 South Street, South Molton, Devon EX36 4AA
Professional ear wax removal by a Level 6 qualified specialist. Microsuction and irrigation. In clinic and at home across North Devon.