What is the difference between microsuction and ear syringing?

Short answer

Both techniques remove ear wax, but the way they do it is very different. Microsuction is water-free and quick, and is a safe, widely used method when performed by a trained clinician.

How each technique works

• Microsuction: under a bright light or microscope, the clinician uses a fine medical suction tube to gently lift wax out. No water enters the ear.
• Ear syringing / irrigation: water is pushed into the ear under pressure to flush out wax. Effective for some people but uses water near the eardrum.

When microsuction is preferred

• You have had a perforated eardrum (current or in the past) and have been advised against syringing.
• You have had ear surgery (e.g. grommets, tympanoplasty).
• You have a history of ear infections or dizziness with water in the ear.
• You wear hearing aids and need wax cleared without water.
• Syringing has not cleared the wax on previous attempts.

Who can have microsuction

Most adults and children from about age 5 can have microsuction. The clinician will check both ears at the start of the appointment and confirm suitability for you on the day.

Why did GPs stop ear syringing?

Routine ear syringing stopped being a core NHS GP service around 2020. Water-jet irrigation pushes water into the ear canal under pressure, and for some patients this carries a higher risk of eardrum injury and infection, which is why many GP practices withdrew it. NICE guidance treats the choice of removal method as something that depends on the individual patient rather than one technique suiting everyone. Locally, NHS ear wax removal is now referral-based and restricted, so many people opt for a pharmacist-delivered microsuction appointment instead.

Read more about microsuction ear wax removal in Altrincham, or call 0161 948 5066 — same-day appointments are often available and no GP referral is needed.