Microsuction earwax removal usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes in total, with the actual suction taking about 5 to 10 minutes per ear. The exact time can vary depending on how much wax has built up and whether one or both ears need treating. Knowing roughly how long the appointment will take can help you feel more prepared before you arrive.
How Long Does Microsuction Take?
Microsuction usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes per ear. Once the initial examination and any necessary checks are included, a full appointment generally takes 15 to 30 minutes.
If both ears need clearing, they can usually be treated during the same appointment, so you won’t normally need to make a separate trip for each ear.
What Happens During Microsuction Earwax Removal?
Microsuction earwax removal uses a small suction device under a microscope or magnifying lens to lift the wax out. Unlike irrigation, it does not involve putting water into the ear.
During the appointment:
- Your pharmacist examines your ear canal first to check that wax is present and that microsuction is suitable.
- A fine suction tip is carefully guided into the ear while the canal is viewed directly.
- The wax is gently removed, with the pharmacist checking the ear as they go.
- Your ear is checked again once the wax has been cleared.
What Affects How Long Your Appointment Takes?
The amount and hardness of the wax, and whether one or both ears need treating, are the biggest factors in how long your appointment takes.
- Softer wax, softened with olive oil drops beforehand, clears more quickly.
- Hard or impacted wax can take longer and occasionally needs a follow-up visit.
- If both ears need treating, the appointment will naturally take a little longer than treatment for one ear.
Is Microsuction Earwax Removal Safe?
Yes, microsuction is considered one of the safest methods of earwax removal when carried out by a trained professional. Because it doesn’t use water, and the ear canal can be seen throughout the procedure, the practitioner can remove the wax carefully and monitor what they’re doing.
This is why NICE’s clinical guidance on earwax management favours microsuction over older methods such as syringing, particularly for people who are prone to ear infections or have a perforated eardrum. Mild discomfort or a feeling of fullness afterwards is possible, but serious complications are rare when it’s carried out by a trained professional.
How to Get Rid of Earwax Before Your Appointment
Softening earwax with olive oil drops for a few days before your appointment is the best way to prepare, rather than trying to remove it yourself.
- Put a few drops of olive oil into the affected ear once or twice a day for 3 to 5 days.
- Avoid cotton buds, fingers or other objects, as these can push the wax further into the ear.
- Don’t attempt home syringing kits without advice, particularly if you’ve had ear problems before.
Why Choose Aroga Pharmacy for Earwax Removal?
Aroga Pharmacy’s pharmacists are trained in microsuction earwax removal and examine your ear before treating it, so you get a proper assessment rather than a one-size-fits-all clean.
- Trained pharmacists carry out the procedure under direct vision, not guesswork.
- No GP referral is needed, so you can be seen quickly.
- A convenient option close to Gerrards Cross, without the wait for an NHS referral.
Ready to Clear Your Earwax? Aroga Pharmacy Can Help
Don’t let earwax build-up affect your hearing any longer. Aroga Pharmacy offers fast, professional earwax removal in Gerrards Cross from our pharmacy in Farnham Common. Our service is easily accessible to the residents of Burnham, East Burnham, Farnham Common, Farnham Royal, Fulmer, Gerrards Cross, Hedgerley, Stoke Poges, or Taplow. Book your microsuction appointment with Aroga Pharmacy today and get back to clear, comfortable hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does earwax removal take overall?
Most microsuction appointments take between 15 and 30 minutes in total, including the examination, with the suction itself taking around 5 to 10 minutes per ear.
How long does microsuction take if I need both ears done?
Treating both ears takes longer than one, but most people are still finished within about 30 minutes, since both ears are usually cleared in the same visit.
Is microsuction earwax removal safe?
Yes, it’s considered one of the safest earwax removal methods, as no water is used and the practitioner can see inside your ear canal throughout the procedure.
What’s the best way to get rid of earwax before my appointment?
Using olive oil drops once or twice a day for 3 to 5 days beforehand softens the wax, making it quicker and easier to remove during your appointment.
Why does microsuction sometimes take longer than expected?
Hard or heavily impacted wax takes longer to clear and can occasionally need a follow-up appointment if it can’t all be removed safely in one visit.
How do I book earwax removal in Gerrards Cross?
You can book a microsuction appointment with Aroga Pharmacy, based in Farnham Common and serving Gerrards Cross and nearby areas, by phone or through our website.