Methods we use
No two people - or ears - are the same.
We don’t believe in a one-method-fits-all approach. We assess your ears first, then recommend the most appropriate way to remove the wax based on what we find, your medical history and what works best for you.
Every appointment starts with a good look inside your ears using a video endoscope. We’ll show you what we can see - although if you’d rather not look, that’s absolutely fine too!
If we spot anything that needs further attention, we’ll explain what we’ve found and signpost you where appropriate.
Three methods. One aim.
Sometimes we use one method - sometimes a combination.
01 - Dry Technique
Microsuction
Microsuction uses a small suction device to remove earwax without the need for water. It works a little like a tiny hoover, carefully lifting wax from the ear canal.
It can sound quite loud inside the ear, so we’ll explain what to expect and can pause whenever needed.
It can be particularly useful where water-based methods aren't appropriate.
02 - Warm Water
Irrigation
Ear irrigation (commonly known as syringing) uses a gentle, controlled flow of warm water to remove earwax safely from the ear canal.
Despite some common misconceptions, irrigation remains an excellent option for many people when carried out appropriately following a thorough assessment.
03 - Precision Removal
Manual Instruments
Manual instruments are specialist tools used to carefully remove visible earwax, often from the outer part of the ear canal.
We frequently use them alongside microsuction or irrigation, allowing us to adapt the treatment and use the safest, most effective approach.
Why we offer more than one method.
Because ears — and people — are different.
Sometimes microsuction is the best option. Sometimes irrigation is. Sometimes manual instruments work beautifully, and quite often we’ll use a combination.
There are also times when, for clinical reasons, a particular method simply isn’t suitable. Having different techniques available means we can choose the approach around you and your ears, rather than trying to make your ears fit the method.
We’ll always explain what we recommend and why, and if something isn’t working comfortably or safely, we’ll stop and reassess.