Here at Churchfields we provide a service called Micro-Suction for surgeries in Redditch and Bromsgrove. 

You will need to be referred by your GP to us for Micro-Suctioning.

Who will do it?

The procedure will be carried out at Churchfields Surgery by one of our experienced clinicians.

 What is Micro-Suction?

This is a procedure to remove wax, debris and foreign objects from the ear canal by using gentle suction and instruments. It is all done under direct vision by looking down a microscope. An anaesthesic is not needed.

What are the benefits of micro-suction?

Syringing has been the traditional way that wax has been removed from ears. This involves forcing water into the ear canal and has several risks including perforation of the ear drum, pain, dizziness, tinnitus and irritation or infection of the ear canal. Some of these risks can be reduced by microsuction which can also be carried out in circumstances where syringing should not be used such as:

• Complications during previous syringing
• Middle ear infection in the last 6 weeks
• Previous major ear surgery
• Grommets or T-tubes
• Perforation of the ear drum
• Swollen ear canal
• Cleft palate

Do I need to do anything before having microsuction?

You should put anti-wax ear drops such as sodium bicarbonate or olive oil into the affected ear(s) twice a day for 2 weeks prior to your appointment (unless your Doctor advises you differently). These drops can be bought at most pharmacies.

What should I expect during the procedure?

We will show you the equipment and explain the procedure. You will be asked to sit or lie still. The suction is noisy and may cause dizziness. The procedure can take up to 30 minutes to complete for both ears and may be uncomfortable, especially if the wax is firmly stuck or if your ear is tender.

After the procedure we will explain the outcome and inform your own GP so the details can be entered into your health record. You can resume normal activities immediately after the appointment. If you experience dizziness you will be asked to wait until it settles which usually takes just a few minutes.

What are the risks of micro-suction?

Grazing of the ear canal: Occasionally some pain and bleeding from the skin of the canal can occur. This will settle by itself.

Dizziness: As the suction introduces cooler air into the ear canal you may experience some dizziness and occasionally nausea. This usually goes away quite quickly. We advise you to keep your eyes open and focus on a particular object.

Perforation: There is a very small risk of perforation of the ear drum which can occur from sudden movement during the procedure. For this reason we ask that you keep as still as you are able whilst microsuction is being carried out. If you find the procedure too uncomfortable, please inform the clinician immediately. 

Will I need it doing again?

Sometimes it is not possible to remove all the material in a single visit, especially if the wax is very hard or is located close to the eardrum. In this case the doctor will usually suggest a second visit after further softening has been carried out. Please call us on 01527 872163 to rebook an appointment. Please try and call us in the afternoon as this is normally our quieter time.

If you are a patient with Churchfields and you would like an ear suction appointment to be arranged, please contact us on 01527 872163 between 8am and 11am or contact us online and ask for a telephone consultation with a GP/PA.