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FAQS
Everything you need to know about Microsuction
WHAT IS MICROSUCTION?
Microsuction is considered to be the most modern and safe method of ear wax removal. It uses a gentle, low powered suction device to remove any excess build up of wax and provide instant relief from symptoms such as hearing loss, pain and discomfort that are being caused by a blocked ear canal. The Audiologist at our Ellesmere Port Clinic will complete the procedure using microscope glasses to illuminate and magnify the ear canal and eardrum, ensuring maximum safety throughout. The ear remains completely dry during this treatment making safe even you have a perforated eardrum.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Microsuction usually takes between 5-25 minutes depending on how much wax is present and whether you need one ear or both to be cleared. Very occasionally you may need a second appointment if the wax is too hard or impacted to remove in full at your first appointment.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO PRIOR TO MY APPOINTMENT?
It is helpful to use Olive oil drops or spray for 1-3 days prior to your appointment to loosen the wax and make the procedure as quick and comfortable as possible. Please do not use more aggressive treatments such as Otex or Sodium Bicarbonate as they can make the wax more difficult to remove in full and you will still be charged for your appointment.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN AT MY APPOINTMENT?
When you arrive the Audiologist will ask some questions about your ears and explain the procedure to you. You will be asked to sign a consent form before microsuction is completed. She will examine your ears and then proceed with wax removal if it is safe to do so.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
Microsuction is gentle and safe however the equipment is fairly loud so occasionally some patients can experience a little dizziness or discomfort from the volume of the suction tube in their ear. This usually settles quickly after the treatment is complete. In most cases hearing is instantly improved but for some it can return more gradually once the wax has been removed. If you continue to suffer from hearing loss or Tinnitus after having wax removed from your ear then you should seek a medical opinion from your GP as soon as possible.
CAN ANYONE HAVE MICROSUCTION DONE?
Because microsuction does not involve any water entering the ear then it is safe for patients who have a perforated ear drum (or history of one) to have this procedure. Microsuction can only be performed to remove wax so if your ear is discharging or you think you have an ear infection you must see your GP instead. Our service does not include paediatrics at present and all patients must be able to give consent to having the procedure done themselves and be able to sit in a still / upright position during the appointment.
WHO WILL COMPLETE MY APPOINTMENT?
Your appointment will be completed by Joanna Ratcliffe, an award winning fully qualified Audiologist with a BSc (Hons) degree in Audiology and over 16 years of experience in the field. She is registered with HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) and has spent over a decade working in NHS and Private Audiology and ENT clinics before setting up this Practice.
IS THERE PARKING NEARBY?
Free parking is available just around the corner from our building along Kings Road.
CAN I HAVE A HOME VISIT?
The microsuction equipment is completely portable so home visits are an option for patients with mobility or transport issues. To have the procedure done you will need to be able to sit in an upright position with enough space for the Audiologist to sit beside you and ideally at or next to a small table to place the equipment on. There is an additional travel fee of £10 for home visits and we cover a 10 mile radius from the clinic which covers Ellesmere Port and parts of the Wirral, Chester and North Wales. We may still be able to accommodate visits over 10 miles away for a slightly higher call out fee.
DO YOU OFFER OUT OF HOURS APPOINTMENTS?
Yes! Evening appointments are available every Wednesday for people who wish to attend out of hours around work, school or childcare commitments etc.
HOW CAN I PAY?
Payment can be taken by card, cash or bank transfer. Contactless payments such as Apple Pay or Google Pay are also accepted!