What is Ear Microsuction?

Ear microsuction is Ear Care Clinic’s preferred method of ear wax removal. Using microsuction for wax removal allows clinicians to see inside the ear canal in greater detail, while having minimal physical contact with the earlobe. This means ear microsuction can be much more comfortable for patients than other methods of ear wax removal, such as syringing.

What’s more, patients do not usually need to prepare their ear wax with olive oil drops before undergoing a microsuction procedure – but doing so may make ear microsuction faster and more comfortable.

What To Expect From Ear Wax Microsuction

Firstly, we’ll discuss your current ear problems with you, to determine which common ear symptoms you’re suffering with

While looking down your ear canal with the microscope, we’ll use a small suction device to gently remove ear wax and any other blockage from your ears

We’ll then examine your ears with a special microscope and advise you of what we find
Once all of the ear wax and any other blockages have been cleared, we’ll check the condition of your ear drums and let you know how the microsuction procedure went
We’ll then explain the microsuction procedure to you and make sure that you’re seated safely and comfortably prior to getting started
In the event that your ears require further treatment or medical attention, such as in the event of an ear infection, we’ll advise you of this and make any necessary additional arrangements

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Ear Wax And Its Impact On Parts Of The Ear

The outer part of the ear
consisting of the auricle or pinna, and the external auditory canal
The middle ear
which is composed of the tympanic membrane, forming the border between the outer and middle ear, and three small bones or ossicles: the malleus, incus and stapes
The inner ear

which contains different sensory cells that are essential for the detection of sound and vibration, and are responsible for our hearing (cochlea) and balance (vestibular system)

If you’re struggling with muffled hearing or discomfort in your ear and think ear wax may be the problem, it’s natural to wonder exactly what it is and what it’s for. Ear wax (or cerumen) is a natural waxy material that’s produced by the sebaceous glands in the outer part of the ear canal. But what is ear wax for?

What Is Ear Wax For?
Ear wax is a mixture of oil, fat, and protein that cleans, lubricates, and protects the lining of the ear by trapping dirt and repelling water. Ear wax is also slightly acidic and has both antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Ear wax is good for you; however, when it becomes excessive, it needs to be removed as it could cause problems, such as discomfort, hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and even chronic cough. Find out more about common ear symptoms.

Wax can become impacted in the ear, causing discomfort and muffling sound, sometimes due to anatomic deformities, such as an increased number of hairs in the ear canal, or due to physical barriers, such as cotton buds or hearing aids. But without some ear wax, the skin inside your ear would become dry, cracked, infected or waterlogged and sore.

It’s therefore important to remember that due to its protective properties, a thin layer of ear wax should be left on the lining of the ear canal following procedures such as ear microsuction or syringing, as it’s extremely beneficial – the aim of wax removal treatments is not to completely eliminate ear wax. If you’re wondering ‘what is ear wax microsuction?’, find out more below.