A Full Range of Specialist Ear Care
Every appointment is provided by Eleni Kiromitis, who holds a Level 6 Certificate in Ear Care. Assessment helps establish whether wax is present and which method, if any, is suitable.
Professional Ear Wax Removal
in North Devon
Earwax Removal Devon provides professional ear examination and, where appropriate, removal of excess wax from the ear canal. If wax is causing muffled hearing, discomfort, tinnitus, or difficulty using hearing aids, assessment helps establish whether removal is suitable and which method to consider.
NICE guidance lists electronic irrigation and microsuction among the methods that suitably trained practitioners may consider. At Earwax Removal Devon, method selection follows an ear examination and discussion of your circumstances. Both are carried out by Eleni Kiromitis, a practitioner with a Level 6 Certificate in Ear Care.
Blocked-ear symptoms can affect hearing, comfort and confidence. Tinnitus, fullness and hearing difficulty can have more than one cause, so an examination helps establish whether wax is present and whether routine earwax care is appropriate.
Earwax Removal Devon is based within Harmonia Health & Osteopathy in South Molton. Home visits are considered for eligible addresses within a maximum 20-mile radius of South Molton and are confirmed after an address check.
You can request an appointment without a GP referral. Pricing is published in advance, and assessment comes before method selection. Our approach is informed by NICE clinical guidelines.
Certificate in Ear Care
Practitioner qualification
NG98-informed
Assessment-led method selection
Home-visit boundary
Address check required
Referral needed
Request an appointment directly
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 earwax and should be assessed through the appropriate NHS urgent or emergency pathway rather than a routine wax-removal booking.
For a full guide to recognising blocked ear symptoms, visit our symptoms of blocked ears page. A blocked or muffled ear can be caused by wax, but not every blocked ear is earwax; read when a blocked ear may not be earwax before booking routine removal if you are unsure.
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
NICE guidance includes microsuction and electronic irrigation among the options a suitably trained practitioner may consider. Eleni examines your ears before recommending an approach.
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.
It is a dry method, so no water is used. Whether it is suitable for you — including where there is a history of perforation, grommets, or ear surgery — is decided after individual assessment.
Appointment length and results depend on what the examination shows, the amount of wax present, and the method selected.
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.
It may be considered after assessment, including where preparation with suitable wax-softening drops has been discussed before the appointment.
Ear history, current symptoms, and examination findings are checked before this method is considered.
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 NG98 method to consider | Yes, where appropriate | Yes, where appropriate |
| Suitability with a complex ear history | Individual assessment required | Individual assessment required |
| Preparation | May be discussed after assessment | Wax softeners may be advised before treatment |
| Hard or impacted wax | Method selected after examination | Method selected after examination |
| 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: compare earwax removal methods
Which Ear Wax Removal Service Is Right for You?
Eleni will always assess your ears before recommending a method. Here is a quick guide to help you choose where to start.
Microsuction
A dry, suction-based technique under direct visualisation. Suitability, including any complex ear history, is confirmed after assessment.
- No water used
- Direct visualisation
- Assessment-led selection
- NICE NG98-informed
Ear Irrigation
A controlled warm-water method using an electronic irrigator, distinct from old-style manual ear syringing. It may be considered after assessment and discussion of your ear history.
- Warm water, controlled pressure
- Wax softeners may be advised
- Assessment-led selection
- NICE NG98-informed
Home Visits
Home visits may be considered for eligible addresses within a maximum 20-mile radius of South Molton. An address check confirms whether a home visit can be offered.
- Address check before confirmation
- Within 10 miles: £75
- 10–20 miles: £85
- South Molton clinic alternative
Not sure which applies to you? Compare earwax removal methods or book a consultation and Eleni will advise 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 request an appointment online, by phone, or by email. No GP referral is needed for routine earwax care; available appointments are shown or confirmed when you book.
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
If removal is appropriate, the chosen method is performed. Eleni explains aftercare and the next step if wax is not the cause of your symptoms.
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?
Named Practitioner and Verified Qualification
Eleni Kiromitis provides appointments at Earwax Removal Devon and holds a Level 6 Certificate in Ear Care. You can read her scope, qualifications and assessment-led approach on the practitioner page.
Assessment Before Method Selection
The ear is examined before a removal method is considered. Microsuction and electronic irrigation are both available where appropriate; the choice depends on examination findings, ear history and your circumstances.
No GP Referral Required
You can request a routine earwax appointment directly. If examination suggests a symptom needs medical assessment instead, you will be advised on the appropriate next step.
Clinic or Eligible Home Visit
The clinic is in South Molton. Home visits may be considered for eligible addresses within a maximum 20-mile radius of South Molton, subject to an address check; otherwise, the clinic remains the booking option.
Clear Scope and Referral Boundary
Routine wax care is not a substitute for urgent or specialist medical assessment. Where removal is not appropriate, or a symptom may need medical review, the service provides clear onward signposting.
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. Available only for eligible addresses after an address check.
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.
Can I Have an Earwax Removal Home Visit?
Home visits may be considered for eligible addresses within a maximum 20-mile radius of South Molton, subject to an address check. If your address is outside this boundary, appointments are available at the South Molton clinic.
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 whose address is confirmed as eligible before booking
Areas We Cover for Home Visits
- South Molton and nearby eligible addresses
- Addresses within 10 miles of South Molton
- Addresses 10–20 miles from South Molton
- Postcode confirmation before a home visit is offered
- South Molton clinic appointments outside the home-visit boundary
For full details including coverage, pricing, and how to book, visit our home visit locations page.
Ear Wax Removal from South Molton
Our clinic is based at Harmonia Health & Osteopathy in South Molton. Patients can attend in clinic, or request a home-visit eligibility check for an address within the 20-mile boundary.
Visit the locations hub for current local service information:
- Ear wax removal in South Molton — clinic location
- Ear wax removal in Barnstaple — local service information
- Ear wax removal in Bideford — local service information
- Ear wax removal in Crediton — local service information
- Ear wax removal in Tiverton — local service information
- Ear wax removal in Ilfracombe — local service information
Our Clinic
Harmonia Health & Osteopathy
South Molton, Devon
For a full overview of all areas we cover, visit our earwax removal locations and home-visit coverage page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Wax Removal
Do I need to have my ear wax removed?
Not always. Earwax is natural and protective. If you have blocked hearing, ear discomfort, tinnitus, or difficulty using hearing aids, an assessment can establish whether wax is present and whether removal is appropriate.
Can ear wax cause hearing loss?
Earwax can block the ear canal and contribute to conductive hearing difficulty. If hearing concerns continue after assessment or removal, you should be advised on the appropriate next step rather than assuming wax is the only cause.
Is microsuction painful?
Microsuction involves a suction sound and may feel unusual. Comfort varies with the ear and the wax present; Eleni explains the process and can pause if you are uncomfortable.
What is the difference between microsuction and irrigation?
Microsuction uses dry suction under direct visualisation; electronic irrigation uses a controlled flow of warm water. A practitioner considers your ear history and examination findings before deciding whether either method is appropriate. Our comparison guide explains the differences in more detail.
Is ear wax removal safe?
NICE guidance includes microsuction and electronic irrigation among the methods a suitably trained practitioner may consider. Treatment should follow an assessment of the ear, relevant history, equipment and method suitability.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can request a routine earwax appointment directly without a GP referral. If your symptoms need urgent or medical assessment instead, the appropriate NHS pathway should be used.
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?
The effect of wax removal varies with the cause of the hearing difficulty and what the examination shows. If hearing concerns continue after assessment or removal, the appropriate next step should be discussed rather than assuming wax is the only cause.
Can you remove a foreign object from an ear?
After assessment, Eleni can advise whether removal is within the service scope or whether NHS or specialist assessment is more appropriate. Do not attempt to remove an object yourself, as this may push it further into the ear canal or cause injury.
Is ear wax removal safe for children?
Children’s appointments are offered from age 10. They begin with a calm ear assessment and an explanation for the child and parent or carer. Treatment is considered only when it is appropriate and the child is comfortable; home-visit eligibility is assessed by address within the 20-mile boundary.
How often should I have my ears checked?
This depends on your ear history, symptoms and examination findings. If wax recurs, your practitioner can discuss whether a planned review interval or the maintenance programme is appropriate for you.
Qualification
Certificate in Ear Care (Level 6)
Eleni Kiromitis, Ear Care Specialist
Eleni holds a Level 6 Certificate in Ear Care and is a member of NACSG. Her approach is assessment-led: she examines the ear, explains the findings, and discusses whether removal is appropriate before a method is selected.
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 North 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?
If blocked-ear symptoms are affecting your day-to-day life, request an assessment. If wax is present and removal is appropriate, the next step can be discussed with you.
No GP referral is needed for routine earwax care. Our pricing is transparent — £60 for a clinic visit, with eligible home visits from £75.
Earwax Removal Devon — Harmonia Health & Osteopathy, 73 South Street, South Molton, Devon EX36 4AA
Professional earwax assessment and removal by a practitioner with a Level 6 Certificate in Ear Care. Microsuction and electronic irrigation in clinic, with eligible home visits within 20 miles of South Molton.