Ear Wax Removal with Micro-suction

Using the TympaHealth all-in-one hearing health assessment system, the clinical ear care practitioner will take your history and examine your ear canal with high-definition digital otoscopy. If wax is present, they will use an endoscope (this is an instrument used to look inside the body and is attached to a video screen for easy viewing) to visualize the wax as it is removed with suction to unblock the ear. Micro-suction is the preferred method of earwax removal among professionals.

During the procedure, the clinical practitioner will use a tiny vacuum to gently provide suction to dislodge and remove the wax. No water is flushed into the ear canal like ear syringing or ear irrigation, instead the procedure quick, safer and more comfortable. The procedure usually takes between 15-30mins depending on the amount, type of wax present and how deep it is in the ear canal. Usually, all the wax which is blocking the ear can be removed during the procedure. However, occasionally when the wax is very impacted, it may require further softening with medical olive oil and another appointment for micro-suction. This follow up appointment is at no extra charge.

As with any procedure there are very uncommon risks with micro-suction to remove ear wax. These are: minor trauma to the ear canal or ear drum, perforation of the ear drum, temporary hearing loss, tinnitus and infection. However, due to the improved visualization of the ear canal during the micro-suction procedure, these risks are lessened compared to conventional ear wax removal techniques. 

Hearing Test Screen

Once the wax has been removed or in some cases where no wax was found, a complimentary hearing screen test is performed within the 30min appointment. If a level of hearing loss is detected and the ear is clear of wax, the practitioner can refer the patient to an audiologist for further testing.