Advice · Ear wax
Microsuction vs ear syringing: what is the difference?
Microsuction and ear irrigation both remove ear wax. Microsuction uses gentle suction and no water. Irrigation, the modern form of ear syringing, uses a controlled flow of warm water. Both are safe and effective when carried out by trained clinicians.
What is ear syringing?
Ear syringing, now called ear irrigation, flushes the ear canal with warm water to dislodge wax. Older metal syringes carried higher risks and have largely been replaced by electronic irrigators, which control the water pressure and temperature. The Chepstow Hearing Clinic uses electronic irrigation where it is appropriate.
What is microsuction?
Microsuction is a dry method. A fine, low-pressure suction tube removes wax while the clinician views the ear canal under magnification throughout. No water enters the ear. It is suitable for patients with a perforated eardrum, previous ear surgery or a history of problems with water in the ears. NICE guidelines recognise both microsuction and irrigation as methods of ear wax removal.
Which one should you choose?
It depends on your ears. The clinician first examines the ear canal with a video otoscope, then recommends a method. Microsuction is often preferred when:
- The wax is hard or impacted
- There is a history of ear problems or ear surgery
- The patient wears hearing aids
- The patient prefers a method without water
Irrigation is often suitable for softer wax, particularly after several days of olive oil drops. See the ear wax removal page for a full comparison.
What about ear candling?
There is no clinical evidence that ear candling removes ear wax. It carries a risk of burns, candle wax dripping into the ear and eardrum damage. The NHS advises against it.
Summary
Both microsuction and irrigation are safe and effective when carried out by a trained clinician. The important steps are an examination first, the right method for the ear, and olive oil drops in the days beforehand. At The Chepstow Hearing Clinic, both methods cost the same, up to £65 for both ears.
Questions people ask
Common questions
Is microsuction safer than ear syringing?
Both are safe when carried out by trained clinicians using appropriate equipment. Microsuction uses no water, so it is suitable for some patients who cannot have irrigation, such as those with a perforated eardrum.
Does microsuction hurt?
Most people find it comfortable. It can be noisy, and some people notice a mild sensation.
Is ear syringing the same as ear irrigation?
Modern ear irrigation is the successor to traditional syringing. An electronic irrigator controls the water pressure and temperature.
Do I need olive oil before microsuction?
It helps but is not essential. Olive oil drops for three to five days soften the wax and are recommended before irrigation.
Book ear wax removal in Chepstow
Microsuction or irrigation, up to £65 for both ears.