Ear Microsuction
Blocked ears can be uncomfortable, muffling your hearing and causing a feeling of fullness that is difficult to ignore. At Trinity Medical, we offer professional ear microsuction at our clinic in Carshalton Beeches, providing safe, effective wax removal for patients across Carshalton, Sutton, Wallington, Banstead, and the surrounding areas of South London. Appointments are performed by our experienced GP, Dr Carrasco, and are available with minimal waiting times.
Ear Microsuction | £60 one ear / £80 two ears
Please note: If no wax is found the appointment will be charged at £40
Foreign Body Removal
If a foreign object – an insect, a bead, a piece of cotton wool, or anything else – has become lodged in the ear canal, it can be uncomfortable and difficult to remove safely at home.
For many people, the only alternative is a long wait at A&E.
At Trinity Medical, Dr Carrasco can examine the ear, and where it’s safe to do so, remove the object using specialist microsuction equipment – the same gentle, precise technique used for ear wax removal.
How it works:
- Examination first. Dr Carrasco will look into the ear canal to assess exactly what’s there and whether it can be safely removed in clinic.
- Removal attempt, if appropriate. If it’s safe to proceed, she’ll attempt removal using microsuction. Not every case is suitable for in-clinic removal — some objects or positions are safer managed by an ENT specialist or in an emergency setting, and she’ll always tell you clearly if that’s the case.
- Onward advice if needed. If in-clinic removal isn’t appropriate, you’ll be referred straight on with clear guidance on next steps.
Pricing:
| Examination & assessment | £40 |
| Examination & removal attempt | £75 |
The examination fee applies whenever Dr Carrasco assesses the ear, whether or not removal is attempted. If she proceeds to attempt removal, the £75 fee covers the full assessment and attempt — this fee applies regardless of outcome, as it reflects the time, skill and equipment involved in a safe attempt, not a guarantee of success.
Not every foreign body can be safely removed outside a hospital setting. If Dr Carrasco advises that removal isn’t appropriate in clinic, you’ll be referred on promptly with full guidance.
What is Ear Microsuction
Ear microsuction is the gold standard method for removing excess or impacted ear wax. Using low-pressure suction under direct visual guidance, the procedure allows the clinician to clearly see the ear canal throughout — making it precise, controlled, and safe.
Unlike traditional ear syringing, microsuction is a completely dry procedure. No water is used, which means there is no risk of water entering a perforated eardrum or irritating a sensitive ear canal.
Who is it suitable for?
Ear microsuction is suitable for most patients experiencing blocked ears due to wax build-up, and is particularly recommended for patients who:
- Have a history of ear infections
- Have had previous ear surgery
- Have or suspect a perforated eardrum
- Have found ear syringing uncomfortable or ineffective in the past
- Simply prefer a dry, precise method of wax removal
If you are unsure whether microsuction is right for you, contact us and a member of our team will be happy to advise.
Unlike traditional ear syringing, microsuction is a completely dry procedure. No water is used, which means there is no risk of water entering a perforated eardrum or irritating a sensitive ear canal.
What does the appointment include?
Your ear microsuction appointment at Trinity Medical includes:
- A thorough examination of the ear canal and eardrum
- Micro-suction removal of excess or impacted wax using low-pressure suction
- Clear advice on ear care and how to prevent future wax build-up
The procedure is generally quick and well tolerated. Some noise may be heard during treatment, and mild, temporary dizziness can occasionally occur — this is normal and settles quickly.
How to prepare?
For best results, we recommend using an olive oil spray for as long as possible before your appointment, but for at least 5 days prior to your appointment, at least 3 times a day.
This softens the wax and makes removal easier, more comfortable, and more effective.
How to use olive oil for earwax softening:
1. Use 2-3 sprays into the affected ear, 3 times a day
2. Lie on your side with the treated ear facing upwards for 10 minutes to allow the oil to penetrate
3. Gently massage the area in front of the ear to help the oil move down the canal
4. Do this for at least 5 days
You can purchase olive oil ear spray from any pharmacy.
Unlike traditional ear syringing, microsuction is a completely dry procedure. No water is used, which means there is no risk of water entering a perforated eardrum or irritating a sensitive ear canal.
Why choose Trinity Medical GP Clinic?
- Same-day appointments — no long waits; we aim to see you promptly
- Convenient location — based in Carshalton Beeches, a short walk from Carshalton Beeches station, with free on-site parking
- Calm, professional setting — a relaxed clinical environment where you are never rushed
- Clear, transparent pricing — £60 one ear / £80 two ears
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ear microsuction take?
Most appointments take between 15 and 30 minutes depending on the extent of wax build-up. The procedure itself is often completed in less than 15 minutes.
Does ear microsuction hurt?
Microsuction is generally well tolerated and most patients find it comfortable. You may hear a loud suction noise during the procedure, and some patients experience mild, temporary dizziness afterwards — this passes quickly.
Do I need a GP referral?
No referral is needed. You can book directly online or by calling the clinic.
How is microsuction different from ear syringing?
Ear syringing uses water to flush wax from the ear canal. Microsuction uses gentle suction under direct visual guidance, with no water involved. It is considered the safer and more precise of the two methods, particularly for patients with a history of ear problems.
Can I have microsuction if I have a perforated eardrum?
Yes — microsuction is actually the preferred method for patients with a perforated eardrum, as no water is used. Please mention this when booking so we can note it on your records.
What if the wax doesn’t come out in one session?
In some cases, particularly where wax is very hard or deeply impacted, a follow-up appointment may be needed. We will always advise you honestly during your appointment.
Do I have to use olive oil drops beforehand?
We strongly recommend it, as it significantly improves the outcome of the procedure. However, if your symptoms are severe or you have not had time to prepare, please still attend — we will always do our best to help.
How often do I need ear microsuction?
This varies from person to person. Some patients need it annually, others less frequently. We will advise you on a suitable schedule based on your individual ear health.