Microsuction Ear Wax Removal: What to Expect

Updated November 2026

If you have never had microsuction ear wax removal before, it is natural to have questions. How should you prepare? Does it hurt? How loud is it? And what happens if there is no wax to remove?

At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, we provide professional microsuction for blocked ears, muffled hearing and other symptoms of ear wax build-up. This guide walks you through the whole appointment, from preparing your ears beforehand to what to expect afterwards.

Before your microsuction appointment

Softening the wax beforehand makes it easier to remove, especially if it is dry or impacted. We recommend applying 1 to 2 drops of olive oil into each affected ear, twice a day, for 3 to 5 days before your appointment. Olive oil drops are available from the pharmacy.

• Do not try to remove the softened wax yourself.
• Avoid cotton buds, fingers or any other object in the ear canal, as these push wax further in.
• If you have an ear condition or a known or suspected perforated eardrum, ask for advice before using drops.

What should I tell you before microsuction?

Before treatment, we ask about your symptoms and medical history so we can assess your ears properly. Please let us know if you have had:

• Previous ear problems or ear surgery
• A known or suspected perforated eardrum
• Ear infections, pain or discharge
• Dizziness, vertigo or tinnitus
• Sudden changes to your hearing
• Previous difficulties with ear wax removal
• Hearing aids

What happens during a microsuction appointment?

Step 1: Consultation

We start by discussing your symptoms, such as a blocked feeling, muffled hearing, earache, tinnitus or pressure in the ear, and your relevant medical history.

Step 2: Ear examination

Your Health and Wellbeing Consultant examines your ear canal using illuminated magnification. This matters because reduced hearing and discomfort are not always caused by wax. The examination shows whether wax is present, how much there is and whether removal is appropriate.

Step 3: Microsuction

If removal is appropriate, wax is removed with a precision suction device while the practitioner watches the ear canal throughout. Unlike ear irrigation, no water is flushed into the ear.

Step 4: Aftercare and advice

We give you aftercare advice and, if you are prone to recurring build-up, talk through how to manage your ears and when it might be worth having them checked again.

What does microsuction feel like?

It can feel unusual the first time. Because the suction device is working inside the ear canal, you will be aware of it, and most people tolerate it well. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, tell the practitioner and the procedure can be paused.

Is microsuction loud?

It can sound louder than you might expect. Sounds inside the ear canal are amplified, so you may hear suction, crackling or popping as wax is removed. This is completely normal, and knowing about it beforehand helps if you are nervous.

Does microsuction hurt?

It should not normally be painful. Some people feel temporary discomfort if the wax is very hard, the ear canal is sensitive or the wax is hard to reach, which is why softening it with olive oil beforehand helps. Let the practitioner know if anything feels uncomfortable rather than putting up with it.

Can microsuction make you dizzy?

Some people feel briefly dizzy during or straight after microsuction. If this happens, tell the practitioner and stay seated until it passes.

How long does a microsuction appointment take?

A typical appointment takes around 15 minutes, including your consultation and examination. The exact time depends on whether one or both ears are affected, how much wax there is, how hard it is, where it sits in the ear canal and whether it has been softened beforehand.

What if there is no wax, or it will not come out?

If there is no ear wax

Sometimes symptoms that feel like wax are caused by something else. If we examine your ears and there is no wax to remove, you only pay the £20 consultation fee, and we will advise you on the next step based on what we find.

If the wax cannot be removed safely

Occasionally, wax is too hard or impacted to remove fully in one go, especially if it has not been softened. Rather than continuing unnecessarily, we will explain what we have found and advise you on the next step, which may be further softening before another attempt.

After microsuction

Will my hearing improve straight away?

If wax was causing your reduced hearing, many people notice clearer hearing immediately. If your hearing is still reduced after the wax has gone, further assessment may be needed, as hearing problems have many causes.

Can I drive afterwards?

Yes, most people carry on as normal with no recovery time. If you feel dizzy or unwell, wait until you feel normal before driving.

Can I wear my hearing aids afterwards?

Let us know you use hearing aids during your consultation and we will advise you based on your circumstances.

What should I avoid?

Avoid cleaning deep inside your ears with cotton buds or other objects. Ear wax protects the ear canal, so the aim is to manage excessive wax when it causes problems, not to remove it all the time.

How much does microsuction cost at Hodgson Pharmacy?

Compare prices across the UK in our guide: how much does ear wax removal cost?

When should I book ear wax removal?

Ear wax normally clears on its own, but consider an appointment if you have blocked or full-feeling ears, muffled hearing, earache, tinnitus or dizziness that has not cleared with drops. Read our guide to signs you may need ear wax removal.

Why choose Hodgson Pharmacy for microsuction?

Hodgson Pharmacy is an independent, family-run Longfield pharmacy clinic at 59 Station Road, serving the community since 1983. Our microsuction ear wax removal service is convenient for Longfield, Dartford, Gravesend, New Ash Green, Hartley, Meopham, Swanscombe, Greenhithe and the surrounding areas, and you do not need a GP referral.

Frequently asked questions