Ear wax removal
Microsuction by a trained clinician. The current gold-standard method: safer, more controlled, more comfortable than syringing. No water used. Includes pre-procedure otoscopic check, the procedure itself, and aftercare advice.
One ear
£60
~25 minutes total
Both ears
£80
~40 minutes total
Why microsuction is the safer choice
- No water introduced into the ear. Old-style ear syringing risks pushing wax further in or perforating the eardrum if anatomy is unusual.
- The clinician sees what they're doing — microscope + suction together, throughout. Far more controlled than blind syringing.
- Suitable for perforated eardrums, grommets, mastoid cavities — water-based methods can't be used safely in these situations.
- Quick — usually under 15 minutes per ear of actual procedure time.
- NICE recommends microsuction or manual instrumentation over irrigation for most patients.
How to prepare
- Soften the wax first. Use olive oil drops (or sodium bicarbonate ear drops) for 3-5 nights before your appointment — 2-3 drops in each ear at night before bed. Makes the procedure quicker and more comfortable. We sell olive-oil drops at the counter if needed.
- Bring a list of medications, especially anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs) or if you have a bleeding disorder.
- Tell us if you've had ear surgery (mastoidectomy, grommets), perforated eardrum, dizziness, or recent infection.
- Allow 30-45 minutes for the appointment.
The procedure itself
- Otoscopic examination — the clinician checks both ears, identifies wax position, confirms there's no infection or perforation that would change the plan.
- Microsuction with magnification — fine suction tip used under microscope. You'll hear the suction (a bit like a vacuum cleaner held up close); not painful for most.
- Final check — confirms wax is cleared and ear canal looks healthy.
- Aftercare advice — how to keep wax under control going forward (which for some people means olive oil drops once a week).
When microsuction isn't appropriate. Active ear infection (we'll need to treat first). Severe dizziness on attempting the procedure. Recent ear surgery without ENT consultant clearance. Children under 12 (we refer to ENT). If we can't safely proceed, the otoscopic check is free; you don't pay for a procedure we don't do.
Will my GP do it for free? Most NHS practices in England no longer offer ear-wax removal — it was de-commissioned from primary care in many areas. Some Leeds practices still do it; check with your GP. We're a private alternative if your GP doesn't or the wait is too long.