Use olive oil or sodium bicarbonate ear drops (such as Earol or Otex) once or twice a day for 3-4 days prior to the appointment.

If you are a hearing aid user it may be necessary to only apply the drops once per day after removing the hearing aids in the evening, then wipe away any excess with a tissue before inserting your hearing aid(s) the following morning.

Apply 1-3 drops to your ear, then lay on your other ear to allow the drops to penetrate the wax for at least 5 minutes before repeating with the other ear (you may wish to lay a towel on your pillow beforehand). There is no need to heat the oil or use cotton wool.

Be aware that olive oil-based drops may cause the wax in your ear canal to temporarily expand, which can cause an increased ‘blocked’ sensation, hearing reduction and sometimes discomfort. This is to be expected and not a reason to be concerned. The same can happen with sodium bicarbonate drops, but usually to a lesser extent.

Always read the instructions before using ear drops and you should not use any type of ear drops if you have a perforated ear drum. 

First, I will confirm that you have completed the medical history questionnaire, read the information about the procedure and signed the consent form.

I will then examine your ears using an otoscope and then set up the video otoscope, which will allow you to see what I can see and allows me to take photographs of your ear canals for your clinical record.

I can then advise you of the best course of action, and if this is to perform Microsuction then I will proceed to remove as much ear wax as I deem appropriate.

Finally, I will show you your ear canals once again using the video otoscope and advise you about after care and how to look after your ear health for the future.

While we are still in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, I will conduct the appointment wearing appropriate PPE.

A small amount of wax may remain in your ear canal after treatment. This is because a small amount of ear wax is needed to keep the ear canal healthy.

A free second appointment will be arranged if the wax cannot be fully removed during the first appointment. If a third appointment is needed this will be charged at the full amount.

Occasionally, although you may be experiencing symptoms of an ear wax blockage, there isn't actually an ear wax blockage present. If this is the case then you will be charged a £20 fee to cover the cost of the appointment time and will be advised of what you should do next. If you are unsure if you have an ear wax blockage then you may be better booking an ear examination appointment initially, which costs just £10. 

Appointments for ear wax removal are held in Hastings and Bexhill, East Sussex. The clinic location details can be found in the 'Locations' section of this website. 

As long as they are able to remain still during the procedure, anyone aged 12 and over can be seen for ear wax removal. However, under 18s must be accompanied to the appointment by a parent or guardian.