Ear Wax Removal
We all get ear wax at some stage! Ear wax is produced by glands in the ear canal; its medical name is cerumen and its purpose is to trap dust and other small particles, preventing them from reaching and potentially damaging the eardrum. Wax also has antiseptic properties, helping to reduce the risk of infection in the outer ear. In normal conditions, wax works its way out of the canal and into the ear opening naturally with the quantity produced varying from person to person. For some the wax does not come out of the ear forming a blockage or plug and may need removing.
Ear wax build-up can cause short-term hearing loss, so if you experience decreased hearing, ear fullness, ringing in the ears or changes to hearing aid functionality, you should seek medical help. Don’t attempt to remove ear wax yourself by using cotton swabs to clean or scratch your ears; these can cause damage to your ear canal, which can lead to many other issues.
Wax Removal at Hear & Now
We hold a weekly ear irrigation clinic every Wednesday and offer microsuction wax removal as required, usually within a week. We also provide free earwax screening checks. If you suspect or are unsure if you have a blockage, please get in touch.
We offer two methods of earwax removal, with the most suitable option depending on your ears, medical history and individual needs. Click the sections below to find out more about each procedure.
Why do we offer both Microsuction and Irrigation ear wax removal procedures?
Because earwax removal is not a one-size-fits-all procedure, and patient safety depends on clinical suitability.
- Anatomical safety: Microsuction uses a small vacuum and direct magnification, making it safe for patients with a history of a perforated eardrum, previous ear surgery or active infections where water is contraindicated.
- Wax consistency: Irrigation flushes the ear canal with regulated, body-temperature water and can be more effective or comfortable for certain types of soft, deep, or stubborn blockages where dry suction is less ideal.
- Patient sensitivity: Some patients find the noise of microsuction unsettling or uncomfortable, whereas modern controlled irrigation provides a quieter, gentle water-stream alternative.
- Comprehensive care: Having both tools allows our clinicians to customize the treatment based on an individual’s ear health history, physical examination, and immediate comfort.
Ear wax removal preparation
Proper preparation for ear wax removal involves softening the wax beforehand, usually between 3 – 5 days prior to an appointment, and avoiding the insertion of any objects into your ear. This helps the process to be quicker, easier and more comfortable.
We recommend applying a pharmaceutical grade (or medicinal grade) olive oil, such as Earol or Cl-ear Olive Oil Spray for your ears for 3 to 5 days before your appointment. Please note olive oil from a kitchen cupboard is not sterile, it is not advisable to use for your ears. Unsterile oils can introduce bacteria or fungi, increasing the risk of ear infections.
If you think you may have ear wax build-up, or are concerned about your hearing, please call 01765 278 744 and we can book you a consultation with our trained hearing professionals.
Our Promise
Hear & Now aims to exceed your expectations in everything we do. As an independent, family-run hearing care business, our aim is to provide a personalised, one-to-one customer service experience that isn’t available elsewhere on the high street.
Why Choose Us?
Exemplary service. A very clear and detailed explanation of the options for new hearing aids. Much time was spent in equipping me with what was most appropriate for me. Nothing is too much trouble – great care and attention paid at every stage.
I recently attended Hear and Now, Ripon for microsuction treatment. What an excellent service on every level. Professional, courteous and thorough.. I have no hesitation in recommending them and I will certainly be using them again in the future.
Took my 99 year old mum for ear wax removal. We had a fantastic experience with all the lovely staff who definitely know their stuff! She left with much better hearing and a massive smile. She got straight back into her talking books once she returned home. Thank you so much.
I would like to thank everyone at ‘Hear & Now’ for the outstanding level of service provided to my husband. Every query was dealt with efficiently, patiently and in a professional manner. Their level of customer care is excellent and we would highly recommend them to others seeking assistance with hearing loss.
