Blocked ears are surprisingly common, and surprisingly disruptive. Muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness, earache, and tinnitus can all develop when ear wax builds up. If you’re looking for ear wax removal in Plymouth, this guide covers what causes the problem, what microsuction involves, and what to expect if you book at Tamar Health.
Why Does Ear Wax Build Up?
Ear wax is entirely normal. It’s produced by glands in the ear canal and serves a useful purpose: it traps dust, dead skin cells, and small particles, protecting the eardrum. In most people, the ear is self-cleaning and old wax gradually migrates outward on its own.
For some people, though, this process doesn’t work as well. Wax builds up, hardens, and becomes impacted, pressing against the eardrum and causing symptoms. The people most commonly affected are those who:
- Use cotton buds, which push wax further in rather than removing it
- Wear hearing aids or in-ear earphones regularly
- Have naturally narrow or hairy ear canals
- Produce more wax than average (this is often simply genetic)
- Are older, as the consistency of ear wax changes with age and becomes harder to shift naturally
Symptoms of Ear Wax Build-Up
Impacted ear wax can cause a range of symptoms, some of which people don’t immediately connect to their ears:
- Muffled or reduced hearing in one or both ears
- A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Earache or mild discomfort
- Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ear)
- Itchiness inside the ear canal
- Occasional dizziness
These symptoms can come on gradually and are often worse after a shower or swim, when moisture causes the wax to swell slightly.
What Is Microsuction?
Microsuction is widely regarded as the gold standard method for ear wax removal. Unlike older methods such as ear syringing or irrigation, which use water to flush out wax, microsuction uses gentle suction to remove wax directly with no liquid involved.
Your clinician uses a small speculum to view the ear canal under magnification and a fine suction probe to carefully remove the wax. The whole process is precise, controlled, and monitored throughout.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
At Tamar Health, ear wax removal appointments are carried out by our Advanced Practitioners at our clinic in Estover, Plymouth. Here’s what the appointment involves:
Before you arrive
We recommend using olive oil drops or a softening spray (available from any pharmacy) for 1 to 3 days before your appointment. This softens the wax and makes removal quicker and more comfortable. It isn’t essential, but it does help.
During the appointment
You’ll be seated comfortably. Your clinician will first examine your ears using an otoscope to assess the wax and confirm microsuction is appropriate. The suction device makes a gentle noise during use, which is normal and nothing to worry about. Most people describe the sensation as mild pressure or tickling. The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how much wax is present and how hard it is.
After the appointment
Most people notice an immediate improvement in hearing as soon as the wax is removed. Your ears may feel slightly different for a day or two as they adjust, which is entirely normal. If you experience any significant discomfort after leaving, get in touch and we’ll advise.
Is It Painful?
Microsuction is not painful for the vast majority of patients. You may feel mild pressure or a cool sensation, and the suction noise can be unexpected the first time, but discomfort is uncommon. If at any point you feel pain, your clinician will stop immediately. You’re always in control of the procedure.
How Much Does Ear Wax Removal Cost in Plymouth?
At Tamar Health, microsuction ear wax removal is priced at:
- Both ears: £65
- One ear: £50
No GP referral is needed and no pre-assessment is required. You can book directly online. Prices are fixed and confirmed at booking with no hidden charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GP referral to book?
No. You can book a microsuction appointment at Tamar Health directly, without seeing your NHS GP first. Simply book online or contact our reception team.
How do I know if my symptoms are caused by wax?
The most reliable way is to have your ears examined. If you’re experiencing muffled hearing, fullness, or tinnitus, a quick assessment will confirm whether wax is the cause, and if it is, it can usually be removed in the same appointment.
Can microsuction be done if I have a perforated eardrum?
Yes. Microsuction is generally considered safer than irrigation for people with a history of perforations or grommets, as no water is used. Please mention this when booking so your clinician is aware.
How often does ear wax build up?
This varies quite a bit between individuals. Some people need treatment every few months; others rarely have problems. Once your clinician has assessed you, they can advise on what’s right for your situation.
What if there’s something other than wax causing my symptoms?
If your clinician examines your ears and finds the cause isn’t wax (an infection, for example) they’ll advise on the appropriate next steps and can prescribe or refer as needed at the same appointment.
Book Ear Wax Removal in Plymouth
No GP referral needed. Both ears £65, one ear £50. Appointments available at our Estover clinic. Book online in minutes.
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