Advice · Ear wax
Why has the NHS stopped ear wax removal, and what to do instead
Many GP surgeries in England and Wales no longer remove ear wax. This article explains why, what national hearing organisations say, and the options available in Chepstow and Monmouthshire.
Why has the NHS stopped ear wax removal?
For many years, practice nurses at GP surgeries removed ear wax, usually by syringing. Today, many surgeries no longer offer the service. According to the British Academy of Audiology, GPs are not incentivised to provide ear wax removal through their contracts, and Integrated Care Boards do not routinely fund it in other NHS settings.
Traditional metal syringes have also been replaced by electronic irrigation and microsuction. Both require specialist equipment and training, which many surgeries do not have.
How many people are affected?
In a 2025 report, RNID found that 8.1 million people in England have no access to NHS ear wax removal. RNID reported that in Wales more than half the population, around 1.6 million people, has no NHS support for wax removal.
Welsh Government guidance, first issued in 2020, states that a free NHS ear wax service should be available in primary and community care. According to RNID, this guidance has not been fully implemented across Wales.
What are the options in Chepstow and Monmouthshire?
Professional ear wax removal is available privately. The Chepstow Hearing Clinic offers microsuction and water irrigation, carried out by trained clinicians. Same-day and next-day appointments are frequently available, and no GP referral is needed.
NICE guidelines recognise both microsuction and irrigation as methods of removing ear wax in primary and community care. The clinician examines the ear first and recommends the most suitable method.
How to prepare for ear wax removal
Use olive oil drops, or an olive oil spray such as Earol, twice a day for three to five days before the appointment. Tilt the head, apply a few drops to the affected ear and stay tilted for about a minute. Softening the wax makes removal quicker and more comfortable. Do not use drops if you have a perforated eardrum or an ear infection.
How much does private ear wax removal cost?
Ear wax removal at The Chepstow Hearing Clinic costs up to £65 for both ears, with £10 off for returning patients. Most appointments take 20 to 30 minutes.
Check who is treating you
Ear wax removal is not a regulated activity in the UK, so anyone can offer it. Before booking, ask who will carry out the treatment and what training they have. At The Chepstow Hearing Clinic, ear wax removal is carried out by trained clinicians, and clinical care is led by an HCPC-registered Hearing Aid Dispenser.
Sources: RNID, ear wax removal campaign; British Academy of Audiology statement.
Questions people ask
Common questions
Can I still get ear wax removed on the NHS?
It depends on where you live. Some areas still commission NHS ear wax removal, often for patients with a medical need. Ask your GP surgery whether a local service is available.
Do I need a GP referral for private ear wax removal?
No. Ear wax removal at The Chepstow Hearing Clinic can be booked directly online or by calling 01291 332211.
How much does ear wax removal cost in Chepstow?
Up to £65 for both ears at The Chepstow Hearing Clinic, with £10 off for returning patients.
Is ear syringing still used?
Traditional metal-syringe ear syringing has largely been replaced by electronic irrigation, which controls water pressure and temperature. The clinic offers electronic irrigation and microsuction.
Blocked ears? We can often see you this week.
Ear wax removal at our Chepstow clinic, up to £65 for both ears.