Frequently asked questions
Does microsuction hurt?
No. Most patients find it comfortable and many find the sensation of clear hearing afterwards a relief. You will hear the suction, which can be loud for a moment, but the procedure itself is gentle.
How long does it take?
A typical appointment takes about fifteen minutes. It is rare to need more than one visit.
Do I need to soften the wax first?
Not necessarily. Unlike syringing, microsuction does not require you to use drops beforehand, though using a little olive oil for a few days can sometimes help. We will advise you.
Is it safe if I have a perforated eardrum or an ear infection?
Yes. Because microsuction uses no water and is done under direct vision, it is suitable for ears that should not be syringed, including those with a perforation or a history of infection.
Can children have microsuction?
Yes. We can treat children from about three years of age. The procedure relies on the child staying still, and between roughly four and eight many children find that difficult, so we assess each child individually and will not proceed if it would be distressing or unsafe.
What if there is no wax, or you cannot help?
We assess your ears first. If there is nothing to remove, or we cannot help you, you pay only the nominal £25 assessment fee rather than the full treatment cost.
Can I swim or fly afterwards?
Yes. You can swim and fly as normal immediately after treatment.
Do you take insurance?
We are a self-pay clinic and do not bill insurers directly. Payment is taken at your visit, and we can provide a receipt should you wish to claim from your insurer.
Why are you more expensive when I can get my ears done for less elsewhere?
Ear wax removal can look the same from the outside, but the care around it varies. Here your ears are assessed and treated by clinicians with many years of specialist ENT experience, with the oversight of a consultant ENT surgeon, in a clinic registered with and inspected by the Care Quality Commission and rated Good. Microsuction is carried out under direct vision with proper equipment, which is what makes it safe for ears that should not be syringed. We assess your ears first, and if there is nothing to remove or we cannot help, you pay only the nominal £25 assessment fee. Most people clear their wax in a single visit. That combination of expertise, safety and regulation is what the fee reflects.
How do I book?
Call us on 020 7495 6314 or email info@clearearclinic.com. Appointments fill quickly, so calling is often quickest.