Preparing for Microsuction Ear Wax Removal
What to expect, how to prepare, and pricing explained
Blocked ears, muffled hearing, or a feeling of pressure are very commonly caused by ear wax build-up. Microsuction is the safest and most effective way to remove wax — and at Hampshire ENT Clinics, it is performed by an ENT consultant.
This guide explains how to prepare, what happens on the day, and exactly what the appointment includes.
What Is Microsuction?
Microsuction is a dry, controlled technique for removing ear wax using gentle suction while the ear canal and eardrum are viewed under magnification with a microscope or endoscope.
It is:
Safe
Precise
Quick
Suitable even if you’ve had ear surgery or a perforated eardrum
It is the gold standard method used by ENT specialists.
How to Prepare for Microsuction (Very Important)
To ensure the wax can be removed comfortably and completely, pre-treatment is essential.
Use Sodium Bicarbonate Drops
Use sodium bicarbonate ear drops
3 times daily for 5 days before your appointment
This softens the wax and dramatically improves success
If wax is very hard or long-standing, microsuction without drops may be uncomfortable or incomplete.
Olive oil is an alternative, but we feel isn’t quite as effective.
Your Microsuction Appointment
Appointment Details
Duration: 20 minutes
Performed by: ENT Consultant
Technique: Microsuction under direct vision
During the appointment:
Your ears are examined carefully
Wax is removed safely with microsuction
You receive tailored aftercare advice
Most patients notice immediate improvement in hearing and comfort.
Pricing – Clear and Transparent
Microsuction Ear Wax Removal
£125 total price
Includes examination and microsuction
No hidden fees
If a Second Session Is Needed
Occasionally, wax is too impacted to clear safely in one visit
You may be advised to continue drops and return
This is not common, but can happen with very dense wax
Important: When Wax Isn’t the Only Problem
Sometimes symptoms that feel like “wax” are caused by:
Ear infection
Eustachian tube dysfunction
Middle ear fluid
Eardrum problems
Sudden hearing loss
If, during your microsuction appointment, the ENT consultant identifies an underlying ear condition rather than wax:
You will be clearly informed during the session
You may be advised to book a formal ENT consultation
Consultation fee for follow up session: £280
There is no obligation — the aim is clarity, safety, and appropriate care.
Why Choose Consultant-Led Microsuction?
ENT specialist assessment (not technician-led)
Safe for complex ears and previous surgery
Immediate diagnosis if something else is wrong
Avoids unnecessary delays or repeated appointments
Summary
Microsuction at Hampshire ENT Clinics includes:
ENT consultant-performed procedure
20-minute appointment
£125 all-inclusive price
Best results with 5 days of sodium bicarbonate drops beforehand
Clear advice if further ENT review is needed
Ready to Book?
If you’re experiencing blocked ears or reduced hearing and want safe, specialist care:
👉 Book a microsuction appointment with Hampshire ENT Clinics today
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Microsuction Ear Wax Removal
What is microsuction ear wax removal?
Microsuction is a safe, dry method of removing ear wax using gentle suction while the ear canal and eardrum are viewed under magnification. It is the gold-standard technique used by ENT consultants and avoids the risks of syringing.
Who performs microsuction at Hampshire ENT Clinics?
All microsuction procedures are performed by an ENT consultant, not a technician. This ensures accurate diagnosis, maximum safety, and immediate identification of any underlying ear problems.
How much does microsuction cost?
Microsuction ear wax removal costs £125 in total.
This includes examination of the ear and microsuction during a 20-minute appointment. There are no hidden fees.
How should I prepare for microsuction?
You should use sodium bicarbonate ear drops for 5 days before your appointment, ideally three times daily.
This softens the wax and significantly improves comfort and success.
Can I have microsuction without using drops first?
In some cases yes, but wax that has not been softened can be hard, painful to remove, or incomplete. Using drops beforehand greatly reduces the chance of needing a second visit.
What happens during the appointment?
Your ENT consultant will:
Examine your ears carefully
Remove wax using microsuction under direct vision
Treat one or both ears as required
Provide personalised aftercare advice
Most patients notice immediate improvement.
How long does the appointment take?
Microsuction appointments last 20 minutes.
Will I need a second appointment?
Occasionally, if wax is very impacted or long-standing, a second microsuction session may be required after further drops. This is uncommon but sometimes necessary for safety.
Is microsuction safe if I’ve had ear surgery or a perforated eardrum?
Yes. Microsuction is the safest option for patients with:
Previous ear surgery
Perforated eardrums
Ear infections
Hearing aids
This is one reason it is preferred by ENT specialists.
What if my symptoms aren’t caused by ear wax?
Sometimes blocked ears or hearing changes are caused by conditions such as infection, middle-ear fluid, Eustachian tube dysfunction, or sudden hearing loss.
If this is identified during your microsuction appointment:
You will be informed clearly on the day
You may be advised to book a formal ENT consultation
Consultation fee: £280
There is no obligation — the aim is safe, appropriate care.
Is microsuction painful?
Most patients find microsuction very well tolerated. Using sodium bicarbonate drops beforehand reduces discomfort further. You may hear some noise during suction, but pain is uncommon.
Can children have microsuction?
Yes, microsuction is suitable for children and is often better tolerated than syringing, particularly when performed by an ENT consultant.
Why choose consultant-led microsuction?
Consultant-led microsuction offers:
Accurate diagnosis
Safer treatment
Immediate expert advice
Fewer repeat appointments
It ensures wax removal is not done in isolation from overall ear health.