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The procedure

Microsuction explained

The safest, fastest and most comfortable way to remove ear wax. No water, no flushing, no waiting list — just a quick visit to our Timperley clinic.

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What is it

Why microsuction is the
gold standard

Microsuction uses a low-pressure medical suction probe and magnification to gently draw ear wax out of the ear canal under direct vision. It replaced ear syringing in modern audiology because it is safer, drier and more controlled.

Water-free
No risk of trapped water leading to infection. Suitable for perforated eardrums.
Direct vision
Your clinician sees exactly what they’re doing throughout the procedure.
Fast
5–15 minutes for both ears in most cases. Same-day relief.
Comfortable
No painful flushing pressure. Most patients describe it as a buzzing sound, not painful.
Suitable for hearing aids
Recommended for hearing aid users so devices keep working properly.
NHS-trained method
The method now used by NHS audiology departments in preference to syringing.
Step-by-step

What happens at your appointment

The whole thing is straightforward. Most people are in and out in under 30 minutes, including paperwork.

1
Examination. Your clinician examines both ear canals using illuminated magnification to see exactly what’s there.
2
Discussion. You’ll be told what was found, how impacted the wax is, and the expected outcome before anything is done.
3
Microsuction. A low-pressure suction probe gently draws the wax out under direct vision. No water, no flushing.
4
Re-check. We confirm the canal is clear and check the eardrum. You’ll get aftercare advice for keeping ears healthy.
Microsuction vs syringing

Why we don’t syringe ears

Syringing was the standard NHS treatment until around 2018. It is now no longer routinely offered because the risks are higher than microsuction.

Old method
Ear syringing
  • Forces water into the ear canal
  • Risk of infection from trapped water
  • Cannot be used with perforated eardrum
  • Risk of vertigo and tinnitus
  • No direct view of what’s happening
Our method
Microsuction
  • No water used
  • Lower risk of infection
  • Safe with perforated eardrums
  • Lower risk of dizziness
  • Clinician sees ear canal throughout
Blocked ears? We can help today.
Late-hour appointments available 7 days a week. Call us or book online.
Book Appointment📞 0161 948 5066