Assessment first
The ear is examined before any removal is attempted, so the plan can reflect what is actually present.
Professional ear care in South Molton
Microsuction Ear Wax Removal
Assessment-led earwax removal using gentle suction under direct visualisation. Every appointment begins with an ear examination and discussion of whether removal is appropriate.
Direct visualisation No water used Suitability assessed first
The procedure
What is microsuction?
Microsuction is a professional method of removing earwax (cerumen) from the ear canal with a small suction device while the practitioner works under direct visualisation. It is a dry method: water is not introduced into the canal.
NICE says community ear-care services may consider microsuction, electronic irrigation or another appropriate method when the practitioner has suitable training, understands contraindications and has the right equipment. The method is therefore chosen after your ear examination, not assumed in advance.[1]
A dry method
Microsuction does not use water, which is one practical difference from electronic irrigation.
Direct visualisation
The procedure is carried out while the practitioner can see the ear canal.
Your appointment
What happens at a microsuction appointment?
The appointment is a decision process as well as a removal procedure. If removal is not appropriate, the discussion moves to the next suitable route rather than routine treatment continuing by default.
Examination and discussion
Eleni examines the ear canal and discusses the symptoms, relevant ear history and whether there is wax that needs removal.
Method choice
If removal is appropriate, microsuction may be selected because it suits the finding and your history. Electronic irrigation may be considered in other situations.
Removal under direct visualisation
Where microsuction proceeds, a fine suction device is used while the canal is viewed directly. You may hear the equipment and may notice an unfamiliar sensation; let the practitioner know if you are uncomfortable.
Final check and next steps
The ear is checked again and you are given relevant next-step advice. If wax cannot be fully removed or another issue is seen, the next appropriate course is explained.
Safety and suitability
Is microsuction suitable for everyone?
No. Microsuction can be considered after assessment, but a previous perforation, grommets, surgery, a mastoid cavity, infection, pain, discharge or another ear condition needs an individual history and examination. Those details affect whether removal should proceed and which method, if any, is appropriate.
The full safety and referral context belongs in our guide on who is suitable for earwax removal. If you have sudden or rapidly worsening hearing loss, severe pain, discharge, facial weakness, or other urgent symptoms, use NHS 111 for urgent advice rather than routine booking.[1]
Microsuction is not presented here as risk-free or universally preferable. The method is chosen only when it is appropriate after assessment.
Questions people often ask
- Does microsuction use water?
- No. It is a dry suction method. Electronic irrigation uses water, which is why method choice is assessed individually.
- Does microsuction hurt?
- Experiences vary. You may hear the equipment or notice a tickling or unusual sensation. Tell the practitioner if you are uncomfortable so the procedure can be paused and reviewed.
- Can all wax be removed in one visit?
- That depends on the examination findings, wax and ear history. If it cannot be completed safely, the next appropriate step will be discussed.
Before and after
Do I need ear drops first?
Preparation is individual. Wax-softening drops may be useful in some circumstances, but the right approach depends on your ear history and the method being considered. Do not use drops if you have been told not to because of a perforation or another ear condition.
How to prepare for your appointmentWhat happens afterwards?
You will be given advice that reflects what was found and done during your appointment. Some people need no further action; others may need symptom monitoring, a further assessment or another pathway. Detailed aftercare depends on the individual and should not be replaced by a generic promise.
Aftercare after earwax removalMethod choice
How is the method chosen?
Microsuction has practical characteristics, including dry suction and direct visualisation. A professional assessment determines whether it is appropriate for your ear and history. The detailed comparison belongs in the dedicated methods guide.
compare earwax removal methodsPrice and access
How much does microsuction cost?
A standard clinic appointment is £60 for one or both ears. If no wax is present and no treatment is needed, the assessment-only fee is £30. See the canonical price page for the full and current schedule.
Clinic appointment
£60
South Molton clinic; one or both ears.
Home visit within 10 miles
£75
Eligibility is checked against the address.
Home visit 10–20 miles
£85
Eligibility is checked against the address.
Related decisions
Useful next steps
These guides cover the questions that sit around a microsuction appointment without duplicating their specialist purpose here.
Practitioner information
Eleni Kiromitis
Ear Care Practitioner — Earwax Removal Devon
Eleni is the ear care practitioner at Earwax Removal Devon in South Molton. For the clinic’s published qualification, scope and assessment-led approach, see the practitioner information page.
Level 6 Certificate in Ear Care
NACSG member