Do you have an upcoming appointment at Earworx for wax removal? Here is everything you need to know about your Earworx clinic visit.
On Arrival
When you arrive at your local Earworx clinic, you’ll be greeted by one of our friendly team, and can take a seat while filling out some forms: 1) a consent form 2) a medical history questionnaire, and 3) a COVID questionnaire. Once completed, one of our nurses will collect you from the waiting room, and you will be seated comfortably, in the reclined position on a bed. Your Earworx nurse is happy to discuss any questions or concerns that you have, and will talk to you about your medical history and your ear health.
With your consent, when you’re ready, your nurse will conduct a thorough inspection of your ear canal to determine if wax is present and needs to be removed. Your nurse wants to ensure removal is only carried out if deemed necessary to clear blocked ears. At a ‘normal’ level, earwax is a very healthy component to our ear functioning!
Your nurse will use a head-worn binocular microscope with LED illumination to examine your ear canal for signs of excess wax. If removal is required, you will be provided with a full explanation of the ear wax removal microsuction process before starting and you are welcome to ask as many questions as you like.
The Procedure
At Earworx, we use a process known as micro-suction to remove ear wax and remedy blocked ears. Microsuction is an earwax removal technique performed by trained Earworx nurses. Earworx nurses undergo training in earwax removal.
To remove excess wax, a very small microsuction tip is attached to a miniature ear wax vacuum device which suctions wax out of the ear. Your ear safety is maintained at all times under close inspection by your nurse using a head-worn binocular microscope. The procedure is efficient, and you’ll usually be out the door in less than half an hour.
At the end of your appointment, your Earworx nurse can give you advice on caring for your ears and advise whether referral back to your GP or audiologist may be needed.
Appointment FAQs
How long does it take?
In most cases, your appointment will take no longer than half an hour. In instances of stubborn impacted wax, a return visit the following week will take place.
What is micro-suction?
Micro-suction employs the use of tiny instruments navigated into the ear by a thoroughly experienced nurse. Suction is used to remove compacted wax while the nurse closely monitors the process through a head-worn binocular microscope.
Does it hurt?
Your nurse aims to touch only the wax, not the canal wall or eardrum, and will check your comfort throughout. Let your nurse know straight away if anything feels uncomfortable. Our nurses have completed study and practical training and are assessed as competent in the microsuction technique.
Is micro-suction safe?
Microsuction is a procedure also used by Ear, Nose and Throat specialists to remove impacted wax. The process will only ever be conducted by one of our qualified and experienced nurses.
How do I pay?
You can pay for your appointment on the day using credit card or cash, or we can arrange payment over the phone using secure payment methods.
Is there anything I can do to prepare?
To allow your appointment to go smoothly and quickly, you can soften your earwax prior to your visit using softening drops.
Further Information
For further information, simply contact our friendly team:
- Phone: 1800 327 967
- Online Form