WHAT IS EAR WAX REMOVAL USING MICROSUCTION?
Ear microsuction is a highly effective and safe method of ear wax removal. This technique uses a small, purpose-built vacuum to carefully suction ear wax and debris from the ear canal. Most patients find the procedure comfortable and painless, with the process typically taking just a few minutes per ear.
Ear microsuction is suitable for patient's with other ear complexities, such as ear infections, perforated eardrums, or had previous ear surgeries, most patient's report immediate relief from ear blockage and improvement to their hearing.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR EAR WAX REMOVAL APPOINTMENT
At Hobsonville Hearing, we prioritise your comfort and safety. Here's a step-by-step overview of what you can expect during your ear wax removal appointment:
1. First, you will need to complete an Ear Wax Removal History and Consent form. This will include the following:
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Your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and contact information.
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Your medical background: Detail any relevant health conditions, medications, and allergies.
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Your ear health history: Include any previous ear surgeries, infections, or hearing issues.
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As with any medical procedure, there potential risks and side effects that may occur as a result of undergoing microsuction. This is listed at the bottom of the form and it is important you read and understand these potential risks before you submit the form.
2. Once you are taken into your appointment, you will have the opportunity to discuss any concerns with the audiologist. They will ask you to explain your symptoms, such as any pain, difficulty hearing, and review your consent form for any relevant medical history that may impact your experience during the procedure.
3. The audiologist will then provide an examination of your ears. Using the MedRx Video Otoscope, you will be shown the inside of your ears on screen - this is a unique experience and tells us whether wax removal is necessary or not. You will also be explained any significant landmarks and the condition of your ear wax and ear health.
4. If the audiologist determines that ear wax removal is necessary, she will then explain the procedure to you and use either microsuction or curetting techniques to clear your ears of wax. The method of ear wax removal that is used will be based on the amount, depth and consistency of the wax.
5. Once your ears have been cleared of any occluding wax, the audiologist will re-examine your ears to ensure they are clear of wax.
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You will receive guidance on how to maintain ear health and prevent future build-up, such as continued use of cooking oil.
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If the wax removal is incomplete due to non-use of cooking oil, you may be asked to reschedule your appointment.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU HAVE EAR WAX REMOVAL?
The frequency of ear wax removal depends on your individual needs and ear health. For most people, ear wax naturally moves out of the ear canal and doesn't require regular removal. However, if you tend to produce a lot of ear wax, you might need it removed every 6 to 12 months.
Hearing aid users often need more frequent cleanings, about every 3 to 6 months, as ear wax can affect the performance of their devices. If you experience earache, hearing loss, tinnitus, or a feeling of fullness, we recommend book an appointment to have it checked out. Those with conditions like eczema or narrow ear canals may need more frequent care.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EAR SYRINGING AND EAR MICROSUCTION?
We are often asked by long-time ear syringing patients about the differences between syringing and microsuction. The critical difference lies in the methods used: syringing uses water pressure to flush out ear wax and debris, while microsuction is uses a small vacuum tube to safely suction ear wax and debris. Syringing is generally considered less safe and less effective than microsuction.
EAR SYRINGING
Ear syringing is a method for removing ear wax buildup by flushing it out with a stream of water. During the process, warm water is squirted into the ear canal to dislodge and flush out the ear wax.
While it can be an effective method of ear wax removal, syringing is known to cause mild discomfort. There is also an increased risk of ear infections or damage to the ear canal or eardrum if not performed correctly. It is not suitable for individuals with certain ear conditions, such as a perforated eardrum or active ear infections.
Pros:
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Effectiveness - Can effectively remove ear wax, especially when pre-treated with ear drops, such as Waxol, to soften the wax.
Cons:
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Less comfortable - Some patients report discomfort from ear syringing
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Higher risk of infection - introducing water into the ear canal can increase the risk of ear infections, particularly if water remains trapped.
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Higher risk of perforation - Improper technique can damage the ear canal or perforate the eardrum, leading to complications such as pain and hearing loss.
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Not Suitable for Everyone - Unsuitable for individuals with certain ear conditions, such as a perforated eardrum, active ear infections, or a history of ear surgery.
EAR MICROSUCTION
In contrast, ear microsuction is a highly effective and safe method for removing ear wax and debris from the ear canal. This technique uses a small, purpose-built vacuum to carefully extract ear wax without the use of water.
Most patients find the procedure comfortable and painless, with the process typically taking just a few minutes per ear. Suitable for individuals with other ear complexities, such as ear infections, perforated eardrums, or had previous ear surgeries, microsuction provides immediate relief from ear blockage and improved hearing.
Pros:
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Comfort - Generally more comfortable and less invasive than ear syringing, with minimal discomfort during the procedure.
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Safety - Considered safer as it does not involve water, reducing the risk of ear infections or damage to the ear canal.
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Precision - Performed under high magnification, allowing the audiologist to see and target ear wax precisely.
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Effectiveness - Highly effective at removing both hard and soft ear wax, as well as other debris.
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Suitable for Most Patients - Safe for individuals with sensitive ears, perforated eardrums, or those who have had previous ear surgeries.
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Quick Procedure - The process is usually quick, often taking just a few minutes per ear.
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Immediate Results - In most cases, microsuction provides immediate relief from ear blockage and improved hearing.
Cons:
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Noise - The suction device can be slightly noisy, which may be uncomfortable for some patients.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does Ear Wax Removal cost?
If you undergo ear wax removal at Hobsonville Hearing, the cost is $60. Payment is due at the time of your appointment.
As a private clinic, we unfortunately do not have access to CSC discounts. We are, however, registered with MSD if you need a quote prior to your appointment.
If Abby determines that ear wax removal is not necessary, the cost is $20. If you require a follow-up appointment due to incomplete removal at your initial appointment, the follow-up incurs a $60 charge. Please note, follow-up appointment charges are applied at the audiologists discretion and apply within a reasonable time period from the initial appointment (i.e. within a couple of weeks).
Does Microsuction hurt?
Most people find microsuction a strange feeling, that does not generally cause discomfort; however, is quite loud. Factors that can increase discomfort include:
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If the consistency of your ear wax is very firm or very soft
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If you have an outer ear infection, which can cause pain and inflammation
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If you have naturally sensitive ears
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If you have exostoses (surfer's ear) - little bony growths that develop in your ear canals from prolonged exposure to cold water or air
If Microsuction is loud, will it damage my hearing?
While Microsuction is loud, you are not exposed to the sound for a long enough time for it to cause damage to your hearing. Noise-induced hearing loss usually occurs after prolonged exposure to very loud noise and takes years to develop.
Can you still perform Microsuction if I have an ear infection?
Yes, we can still perform Microsuction if you have an active ear infection. You may find the procedure more uncomfortable than usual. Abby will take extra precautions to ensure that cross contamination does not occur if the infection is only present in one ear.
Do I need to soften my ear wax before getting Microsuction?
Hobsonville Hearing STRONGLY recommends using a few drops of any kind of COOKING OIL in the ears before your appointment - use each day prior if you book your appointment days in advance. It is important to lay on the opposite side for 5-10minutes after doing this to allow the oil to soak right down. Please AVOID using Waxsol, Cerumol or any other over the counter softening treatment before your appointment, as this often makes the wax too soft and the experience less comfortable for you.
PLEASE NOTE: If you do not perform the oil softening treatment prior to your appointment, Abby may not be able to successfully clear your ears and you may require a follow-up appointment.
Does my insurance
We are Southern Cross Easy-Claim providers and, depending on your policy, you may be able to claim ear wax removal.
Do you see children?
Yes, we have seen many children at Hobsonville Hearing for ear wax removal and the removal of foreign objects from the ears. Abby will do everything she can to ensure your child has a positive experience as we know this type of procedure can be scary for children. We do not have an age limit, however; it depends on the child as to whether they will be able to tolerate the procedure. We have a separate appointment for paediatric ear wax removals with a tailored medical history form.
Click here for more information about Ear Wax Removal for children.