Safe, Gentle & Effective
Earwax Removal Methods
Choose the Right Method for You
At Clear Ear Cheer, we offer three clinically proven earwax removal methods. Each is safe, effective, and performed with care—but they work differently. We'll assess your ears and recommend the best approach for your comfort and situation.
Microsuction
Gentle vacuum removal using medical-grade equipment. Dry, precise, and suitable for almost everyone.
Irrigation
Controlled warm water gently flushes wax out. Comfortable and effective for soft to moderate buildup.
Manual Removal
Precision instruments carefully extract wax under direct vision. Ideal for stubborn or hard wax.
What Is Microsuction?
Microsuction is the most advanced earwax removal method available. Using a medical-grade suction device and a binocular microscope or video otoscope, we can see exactly what we're doing as we gently vacuum out earwax and debris. It's completely dry—no water involved—making it the safest option for most people.
How It Works
We start with a thorough examination using video otoscopy (you can see your ear canal on screen!). Then, using our specialized microscope for magnified vision, we carefully insert a tiny suction tube into your ear canal. The device gently removes wax with precision, without touching the delicate ear canal walls. Most appointments take 15-30 minutes for both ears.
Why People Choose Microsuction
- ✓Safest method available — No water means no risk of infection or pressure-related issues
- ✓Perfect precision — We can see exactly what we're removing in real-time
- ✓Suitable for everyone — Safe even with perforated eardrums, narrow canals, or previous ear surgery
- ✓Instant results — Most patients hear the difference immediately
- ✓Comfortable process — Minimal contact with your ear canal
What It Feels Like
You'll hear a gentle humming or whooshing sound (similar to a small vacuum cleaner) close to your ear. Most people find it unusual but not uncomfortable. Some feel a slight tickling sensation, but there's rarely any pain. We'll check in with you throughout and can pause anytime if needed. Many patients are amazed at how quickly they notice clearer hearing!
What Is Irrigation?
Irrigation is a modern take on traditional ear syringing, using controlled warm water to gently flush earwax out of your ear canal. Unlike the old syringe method, today's irrigation equipment gives us precise control over water temperature and pressure, making it much safer and more comfortable. It's a wet technique that's been trusted for decades.
How It Works
After examining your ears, we'll ask you to soften the wax with olive oil drops for a few days beforehand (this makes removal much easier). During your appointment, you'll sit comfortably while we introduce a controlled stream of warm water (body temperature, around 37°C) into your ear canal. The water gently dislodges the wax, which flows out into a basin. The process typically takes 15-30 minutes for both ears.
Why People Choose Irrigation
- Effective for soft wax — Works brilliantly for moderate earwax buildup
- Comfortable sensation — Most people find the warm water soothing
- Quick relief — Immediate improvement in hearing and comfort
- Familiar method — Many people are already comfortable with water-based removal
- Same professional care — We use modern equipment with precise controls for your safety
What It Feels Like
You'll feel a gentle stream of warm water in your ear—unusual but not painful. Most patients describe it as a soothing flushing sensation, though some feel slight pressure. We carefully control the temperature and flow to keep you comfortable throughout. Afterwards, we'll dry your ears thoroughly and check that everything's clear.
Important Note
Irrigation isn't suitable for everyone. We won't use this method if you have a perforated eardrum, previous ear surgery, or an active ear infection. Don't worry—we'll always examine your ears first and recommend the safest option for you.
What Is Manual Removal?
Manual removal uses specialized instruments—like tiny scoops (curettes), fine tweezers (forceps), and slender loops (Jobson Horne probes)—to carefully extract earwax under direct vision. It's a water-free, suction-free technique that gives us exceptional control and precision. We often combine it with microsuction or irrigation for the best results.
How It Works
Using video otoscopy for a clear, magnified view of your ear canal, we carefully select the right instrument for your specific wax type and situation. We then gently remove the wax piece by piece with precision and care. The process is methodical and thorough, typically taking 15-30 minutes. You'll see the results on screen as we work!
Why People Choose Manual Removal
- Perfect for stubborn wax — Ideal for hard, impacted, or difficult-to-reach blockages
- Exceptional precision — Allows us to work around sensitive areas with complete control
- Completely dry — No water or suction noise involved
- Gentle on delicate ears — Great for narrow or sensitive ear canals
- Flexible approach — Often combined with other methods for comprehensive care
What It Feels Like
Manual removal is generally very comfortable. You might feel a slight tickling or gentle pressure, but most patients find it painless. There's no loud noise (unlike microsuction), and no water sensation (unlike irrigation). We work slowly and carefully, checking in with you throughout to ensure you're at ease. Many people are surprised by how relaxed they feel during the process.
Which Method Is Right For Me?
The honest answer? We'll recommend the best approach after examining your ears. Every person's ear canal, wax type, and medical history is unique. But here's a general guide:
Choose Microsuction If:
You have perforated eardrums, previous ear surgery, narrow ear canals, or prefer the safest, most precise method
Choose Irrigation If:
You have soft to moderate wax, no ear perforations, and you're comfortable with water-based removal
Choose Manual Removal If:
You have hard/impacted wax, very narrow canals, or prefer a completely silent, dry method
Don't worry about choosing—we'll assess your ears and guide you to the safest, most comfortable option. Your hearing and comfort are our priorities!
Ready to Hear Clearly Again?
Book your professional earwax removal appointment today. Mobile service across Essex, Suffolk, and parts of London.
Or call 07534 764560 to discuss your needs