Microsuction Ear Wax Removal – Safe, Effective Treatment in Hampshire
Blocked ears, muffled hearing or a feeling of pressure are often caused by a simple problem: ear wax build-up. While ear wax is natural and protective, excessive or impacted wax can cause discomfort, hearing loss, tinnitus and even dizziness.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite at Queen Alexandra Hospital, and Medicana Winchester, we provide safe, gentle microsuction performed by ENT specialists for patients across Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester and Salisbury.
Microsuction is the gold standard method for wax removal — fast, clean and far safer than syringing or home remedies.
Costs = £125 for both ears, performed by an ENT Consultant
👂 What Is Microsuction?
Microsuction uses a gentle medical suction device to remove wax while the clinician looks directly into the ear canal using a high-powered microscope or endoscope.
This allows complete control and visibility, making it:
Safe
Precise
Comfortable
Suitable for most adults and children
Microsuction is especially recommended for people who wear hearing aids, swim regularly, have narrow ear canals, or have had previous ear surgery.
🚫 Why Not to Use Ear Candles or Cotton Buds
Ear candles, cotton buds, and DIY tools can cause:
Ear canal injury
Infection
Pushing wax deeper
Burns
Ear drum perforation
More blockage than before
The safest option is always professional removal by an ENT-trained clinician.
🔍 Signs You May Need Microsuction
You may benefit from treatment if you experience:
Blocked or muffled hearing
A feeling of fullness or pressure
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing)
Itching or irritation
Ear discomfort
Feedback or whistling from hearing aids
Wax rarely clears on its own once it becomes impacted.
🩺 What to Expect During Your Appointment
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite and Medicana Winchester, appointments include:
ENT examination
Microsuction performed gently and precisely - by ENT Consultants
Hearing check if needed
Advice on preventing future wax build-up
Most patients notice immediate improvement in hearing and comfort.
🌟 Advantages of Microsuction
No water needed (ideal for perforated eardrums)
Fast and clean
Minimal discomfort
Safe for hearing aid users
Reduced risk of infection
Suitable for children
It is the preferred method used by ENT specialists across the UK.
🏥 Where We Provide Microsuction in Hampshire
You can access consultant-led microsuction services at:
Hampshire ENT Clinics
The Harbour Suite at Queen Alexandra Hospital (Portsmouth)
Medicana Winchester
New Hall Hospital, Salisbury
These locations serve patients from Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, Salisbury, Fareham, Gosport, Romsey and Andover.
👉 If your ears feel blocked or you would like safe, specialist ear wax removal, book a microsuction appointment with Hampshire ENT Clinics or Medicana Winchester.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Ear Wax Removal by Microsuction
What is ear wax and why do we have it?
Ear wax (cerumen) is a natural substance that protects the ear canal. It traps dust and debris, has antibacterial properties, and helps keep the ear healthy. Problems arise when wax builds up or becomes impacted.
Why do my ears feel blocked or muffled?
Blocked or muffled hearing is commonly caused by impacted ear wax, which prevents sound from reaching the eardrum properly. This can also cause pressure, discomfort, tinnitus, or dizziness.
What is microsuction?
Microsuction is a safe, modern method of ear wax removal. A gentle suction device is used while the clinician looks directly into the ear with a microscope or endoscope, allowing precise and controlled removal of wax.
Is microsuction better than ear syringing?
Yes. Microsuction is considered the gold standard for wax removal because it:
Uses no water
Allows direct visual control
Is safer and more precise
Has a lower risk of infection or eardrum injury
For these reasons, ear syringing is now much less commonly recommended.
Does microsuction hurt?
Most patients find microsuction comfortable or only mildly uncomfortable. You may hear some noise during suction, but the procedure is usually quick and well tolerated.
Is microsuction safe if I have a perforated eardrum or previous ear surgery?
Yes. Because no water is used, microsuction is the preferred method for patients with perforated eardrums, grommets, mastoid cavities, or previous ear surgery.
Can children have microsuction?
Yes. Microsuction is suitable for children and is often better tolerated than syringing, especially when performed by experienced ENT clinicians.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure itself usually takes only a few minutes per ear. Appointments also include examination and aftercare advice.
Will my hearing improve immediately?
In most cases, yes. Many patients notice immediate improvement in hearing and comfort once the wax is removed.
Should I use olive oil or ear drops beforehand?
Sometimes. Softening drops may be advised before your appointment if the wax is very hard, but many cases can be treated without prior preparation. Your clinician will advise you.
Why shouldn’t I use cotton buds or ear candles?
Cotton buds and ear candles can:
Push wax deeper into the ear
Injure the ear canal
Cause infections or burns
Perforate the eardrum
They often make blockage worse rather than better.
How can I prevent ear wax build-up in future?
Your ENT specialist may advise:
Avoiding cotton buds
Occasional use of oil drops if prone to wax
Regular review if you wear hearing aids
Some people naturally produce more wax and may need periodic microsuction.
Where can I have microsuction performed safely?
Consultant-led microsuction is available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite at Queen Alexandra Hospital (Portsmouth), Medicana Winchester, and New Hall Hospital Salisbury, serving patients from Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, Salisbury, and across Hampshire.
When should I seek assessment?
You should book an appointment if you have persistent blocked ears, hearing loss, tinnitus, discomfort, or problems with hearing aids.