To ECW Professional Ear Cleaning

Ear Wax removal services that I offer are suitable and safe, for both adults and children, as well as those who wear hearing aids. A thorough assessment and consent form will be completed prior to treatment to determine the best and most suitable option for you. 

Ear Wax removal works best when the wax is softer, as hard wax can make the procedure more uncomfortable, and can prevent me from being able to remove all the wax in one procedure.

The most effective method of softening wax is by using olive oil. 

1. Using a small dropper bottle place 3 drops into the affected ear(s) THREE times a day for 5 days, for those wearing hearing aids, it is recommend to continue for 7 days.
2. Massage the tragus (this is the harder area at the front of the ear) this allows for the oil to move down the ear canal.
3. Ideally lie down, with your head on the side, with the affected ear facing upwards, allowing the oil to penetrate the wax.
4. Repeat process on the other ear is necessary.

When oil is used in the ear, it is common for the ear to feel like it has become completely blocked, this is due to the oil filling any gaps around the wax. This is not concerning, and will resolve itself, or once microsuction is completed.

If olive oil has not been used prior to the appointment i will apply this myself, as often this is sufficient for effective wax removal. However, it is recommended for complete wax removal in one session to follow the above directions if at all possible.

Depending on how much wax or debris is visible, this can vary between each individual and your comfort level. In most procedures this can vary between 20 to 30 minutes, but i always allow for an hour per appointment. Sometimes not all the wax can be cleared in one session due to the level of impaction, or hardening of the wax, and you may be recommended to oil the ears before the next appointment. For ear wax which requires a return visit, this would be included in your initial price.

Ear Wax removal should not be painful, however if the ear wax is particularly hardened, or impacted, then this can lead to intermittent discomfort. Microsuction sounds similar to a wind like noise in your ear, and irrigation, will feel warming to the inside of the ear canal, some even find the procedure relaxing. If however, you feel at any time uncomfortable you can let me know at any time, to stop.

Frequency of Ear Wax Removal will depend on the individual. It is better to treat the ear wax earlier, to ensure ear wax build up doesn't happen before it becomes hard and impacted. Some are more prone to wax build up, and may require treatment every 4 to 6 months, and those with hearing aids may be more frequent. Some patients however, can go between every

6 to 12 months. 

Both procedures I offer as a fully trained and accredited Clinician are considered extremely safe and effective. With any medical procedure there is always a small risk of complications, however, these are often minor and will resolve by themselves, therefore, are not cause for concern prior to your appointment. I will complete a full written assessment of which treatment is most suitable for you before starting the procedure, and that you are happy for me to go ahead.

Some of the side effects that can occur include:

• Infection: Procedures can sometimes stimulate the skin inside the ear canal, however this is very rare. If after the procedure you experience any leakage or pain from the ear get in contact with myself.
• Dizziness: Some experience a feeling of vertigo, or light dizziness during, or shortly after the procedure. This is only a temporary side effect, and should not last long once the procedure has finished.
• Trauma to the ear: during the miscrocution treatment there is a small risk that the suction tube may scratch the inner wall of the ear, although rare, and if it does happen there is no need for concern. The area will heal itself with no long term or lasting damage. More serious traumas, such as perforated ear drums are incredibly rare.

Wax is an oily substance whos main function is to protect the ear. Despite its name, wax is made up of hair, dead skin cells and secretions from the glands inside your ear.

The ear is a organ which is able to naturally clean itself. In most cases, wax should naturally migrate out of the ear itself, which in turn removes debris and dirt with it.

Wax can reveal a lot, even down to being able to identify your age, diet and health conditions. As we age, the wax can become more drier, often food and drink affecting this too, such as garlic and alcohol.

We all have different types of wax, and this is incredibly down to genetics, either consisting of wet or dry wax. Depending on your heritage, you will be more predisposed to either wet or dry wax, with most European and African descendants having wet wax, and dry wax more typically found in Asian descents.

Cotton buds are one of the main causes for damaging the ear canal and eardrum. They are responsible for pushing wax further into the ear causing blockages and pain. Although its tempting to try and remove this yourself its always best to get this professionally and safely removed by an expert.