Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the body to protect and lubricate the ear canal. While it serves an important function, excess ear wax can sometimes build up and cause problems such as hearing loss, earache, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. In these cases, ear wax microsuction may be necessary to remove the excess wax and restore normal ear function.
Ear wax microsuction is a form of ear wax removal that is performed using a specialized microscope and suction device to suck the wax out of the ear, and it’s rapidly becoming one of the most popular forms of ear wax removal. This is thanks to the fact that it is the safest and cleanest method of ear wax removal that is available on the market, and it’s also very gentle on the ears and is considered to be pain free.
What happens during ear wax microsuction?
Before the procedure, the healthcare professional will examine the ear using an otoscope, a device with a light and magnifying lens, to assess the amount and location of the wax. Depending on the amount of wax to be removed, or if it is a tougher buildup, you may need to use Earol oil to help to soften the wax and aid removal.
During the procedure, the clinician will hold the suction device near the entrance to the ear canal to carefully remove the excess wax. The procedure is generally very fast (taking approximately 5 minutes per ear) and the vast majority of patients experience relief from their symptoms almost immediately after the wax is removed.
There are several benefits to ear wax microsuction compared to other methods of ear wax removal. It is a relatively quick and simple procedure, and it can be performed by a Doctor or in a clinic. It is also a safe and effective way to remove excess ear wax, as it avoids the risks of damaging the ear canal or eardrum that can occur with other methods such as ear irrigation or the use of ear drops.
What are the pros of ear wax microsuction?
Unlike ear irrigation or syringing where the ear wax is flushed out of the ear without actually taking a look inside the ear canal to get a good idea of where the wax is located, the canal and ear wax are monitored during the procedure. Other benefits to microsuction include;
Safe for perforations – Unlike some other forms of ear wax removal, microsuction is completely safe for people who have a perforated eardrum. It can even provide assistance if there is an object lodged within the ear canal that could be causing pain or hearing loss.
No water needed – When water is used to flush the ear canal (like with syringing or irrigation), it often ends up causing a bit of a mess of water and wax. With microsuction, there is no water needed and the procedure is completely dry, reducing the risk of mess and infection.
What about the cons of ear wax microsuction?
While the benefits definitely outweigh the negatives, there are still some limitations to ear wax micsrosuction as a treatment. These include;
Narrow field of view – Because the microscope is being inserted into the ear canal, it needs to be very small and can provide quite a narrow field of view. The good news on this one though is that it can be resolved by altering position until our clinician can get the best view of the area that they are treating.
Damage to the ear – Whilst it is incredibly rare that damage can be caused to the inside of the ear canal, it is something that needs to be thought of as a possibility.
Noise – The treatment is performed by sucking wax out of the ear and because of this suction, it can be a little bit noisy in the ear. Something worth bearing in mind if you have sensitive hearing as it can cause sudden movements, which can result in damage to the ear canal.
Ear wax microsuction is a safe and effective method of removing excess ear wax and relieving the symptoms it can cause. To find out more, visit our dedicated ear wax removal page or book a consultation with us today by using our booking system or calling us on 01270 627118.