Ear wax is natural, essential, and protective.
But when it builds up too much, it can block your hearing and cause discomfort.
Ever wondered how to safely remove ear wax?
How much professional ear cleaning costs?
Or whether microsuction is the right choice for you?
This complete guide covers it all.
We’ll explain how the process works, how to prepare, and what to expect.
You’ll also learn why thousands of Londoners choose Dewaxify for quick, safe, and comfortable ear wax removal.
Why We Have Ear Wax (and When It Becomes a Problem)
Ear wax, medically known as cerumen, has a purpose.
It keeps your ears clean by trapping dust and bacteria, while naturally migrating outward.
Most people never need to clean their ears but wax can accumulate when:
- The ear canal is narrow or curved
- Hearing aids or earphones push wax deeper
- Skin conditions like eczema alter wax texture
- Ageing reduces the ear’s natural clearing ability
When wax hardens, it can cause muffled hearing, tinnitus, imbalance, or even coughing due to shared ear–throat nerves.
That’s where professional removal becomes necessary.
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What Is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal?
Microsuction is the gold standard method for ear cleaning.
It involves a clinician using a gentle suction wand under magnification to remove wax safely, without any water.
Unlike syringing, it’s a dry technique, which makes it suitable for patients with:
- Perforated eardrums
- Previous ear surgery
- Hearing aids
- Ear infections or eczema
Microsuction is precise, fast, and rarely uncomfortable.
The clinician can see the entire ear canal during the process, ensuring accuracy and safety.
Microsuction vs Syringing vs Home Remedies
| Method | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
| Microsuction | Gentle suction with a microscope | Precise, dry, safe for all ears | Requires a trained clinician |
| Syringing | Water flushed into the ear | Quick and affordable | Risk of infection or perforation |
| Home Drops | Oil or enzyme-based softeners | Easy to try at home | Ineffective for hard or impacted wax |
Step-by-Step: What Happens During an Appointment
- Consultation & Medical History
The clinician reviews your symptoms, past ear conditions, and any previous treatments. - HD Otoscopy
A camera examines the ear canal. You can view your earwax on a screen. - Microsuction Procedure
A fine suction wand gently removes wax under magnified vision. The sound is noticeable but painless. - Verification Check
The clinician rechecks both ears to confirm they’re clear. - Free Hearing Test
You’ll complete Dewaxify’s Free Hearing Online Test to measure improvement. - Aftercare Guidance
The team provides personalised tips and a leaflet for long-term ear hygiene.
Total appointment time: around 25–30 minutes.
How Much Is Ear Wax Removal in London?
Prices vary depending on clinic expertise and technology.
At Dewaxify, appointments start from £60, including:
- Initial consultation
- Microsuction procedure
- Free hearing test
- Aftercare guidance
Specialist or follow-up visits may differ based on complexity.
Is ear wax removal free for pensioners?
NHS availability varies by region.
Many GP practices no longer provide ear wax removal service.
Private clinics like Dewaxify offers concession rates or attractive discounts.
Always visit Dewaxify’s pricing page before bookings for disounts.
Is Ear Wax Removal Safe?
When performed by trained professionals, ear wax removal is extremely safe.
- Microsuction is dry and controlled, minimising infection risks.
- Syringing uses water pressure and carries a small risk of irritation or perforation.
- At-home syringing or ear candling should be avoided due to safety concerns.
Most patients experience no pain only mild suction sounds or brief tickling.

Does Ear Wax Removal Cause Dizziness or Discomfort?
Some patients feel light-headed immediately after wax removal, especially if the wax had been blocking sound for a long time.
This usually resolves within minutes as the inner ear adjusts to normal airflow.
Rarely, mild ear canal tenderness or temporary ringing may occur for a few hours. Using olive oil drops and keeping the ear dry helps recovery.
At-Home Care & Prevention
- Avoid inserting cotton buds or sharp objects into the ear canal.
- Use medical-grade olive oil drops once a week to soften wax naturally.
- Keep ears dry after swimming or showering.
- If you wear hearing aids, clean them regularly to prevent wax build-up.
- Schedule preventive microsuction every 6–12 months if you produce excess wax.

Aftercare: How to Keep Ears Clear After Removal

Why Microsuction is the Gold Standard
Microsuction offers three main advantages over traditional syringing:
- Control – The clinician sees exactly what is being removed.
- Safety – No water or pressure means minimal risk of infection.
- Comfort – The process is gentle and suitable for all ages.
Patients often describe the moment after microsuction as “suddenly hearing in high-definition.”

Dewaxify: London’s Specialist Ear Cleaning Clinic
Founded in April 2017 by Sita Parmar, a certified Audiological Scientist, Dewaxify is an ear wax removal clinic based in Ilford, East London.
The clinic specializes in microsuction ear wax removal, a dry, precise, and highly effective method considered the gold standard in modern audiology.
Dewaxify Services & Expertise
- Microsuction Ear Wax Removal – precise, safe, and quick.
- HD Otoscopy – live video view of the ear canal.
- Hearing Assessment – includes a free online hearing test.
- Aftercare Consultation – expert tips for long-term ear health.
Ready to Hear Clearly Again?
Don’t risk at-home syringing or cotton buds. Choose safe, professional ear cleaning.
Book your same-day microsuction appointment at Dewaxify Ilford and experience instant clarity.
Ear Wax Removal FAQs
What is microsuction ear wax removal?
Microsuction uses a low-pressure vacuum and microscope to remove ear wax safely, without water.
How much is ear wax removal?
At Dewaxify, it starts at £60, including consultation and hearing test.
Is ear wax removal free for pensioners?
NHS coverage varies by location. Private clinics may offer senior concessions.
Does ear wax removal hurt?
No. You may feel mild suction or tickling, but no pain.
How long does dizziness last after ear wax removal?
It usually settles within minutes as pressure normalises.
Is ear wax removal safe?
Yes, especially when performed by a trained audiologist using microsuction.

