What is microsuction?

Microsuction is a wax-removal technique using a binocular operating microscope (which allows depth-perception and magnification) to look straight into the ear canal and a very fine sterile suction device at low pressure to remove the wax. Occasionally we may need to use other instruments to remove hard wax. The technique means that we can always see what we are doing and can avoid touching the skin of the sides of the ear canal which makes the process a lot more comfortable.

Why is microsuction better?

Compared to the traditional forms of wax removal – ear drops and irrigation or “syringing” – microsuction is:

  • safer

  • quicker

  • neater

  • generally better tolerated

  • more effective

  • doesn’t need weeks of waiting for drops to soften the wax