Microsuction Earwax Removal — What to Expect

Microsuction is a method of earwax removal in which a trained clinician uses a small, low-pressure suction device — guided by magnification — to carefully clear wax from the ear canal. It is a dry procedure, meaning no water is introduced into the ear. Many clinicians consider it a preferred method for earwax removal, though the right approach depends on individual circumstances.

Why Does Earwax Build Up?

Earwax (cerumen) is produced naturally by the ear canal as a self-cleaning and protective mechanism. In most people, old wax gradually makes its way to the outer ear and clears on its own.

For some people, however, wax accumulates faster than it moves out — or becomes impacted. This can happen for various reasons:

Naturally narrow or curved ear canals
Use of hearing aids or earplugs, which can slow the natural migration of wax
Use of cotton buds, which can push wax deeper rather than removing it
Certain skin conditions affecting the ear canal
Age-related changes to wax consistency

When wax builds up, it can cause a blocked or full sensation in the ear, reduced hearing, tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds), or discomfort. An audiologist or GP can examine the ear to determine whether wax is the likely cause.

What Is Microsuction?

Microsuction uses a very fine suction tube connected to a medical-grade low-pressure pump. The clinician looks into the ear canal using a set of magnifying loupes (special magnifying glasses) or a microscope, giving them a clear, illuminated view of the ear canal and eardrum throughout the procedure.

Because the clinician can see exactly what they are doing at all times, microsuction allows for careful, controlled removal of wax — including wax that is close to the eardrum.

The procedure is performed while you are seated upright, usually taking around 15 to 30 minutes depending on the amount and consistency of the wax.

How Does Microsuction Differ From Ear Syringing?

Ear syringing (also called ear irrigation) uses a stream of warm water to flush wax from the ear canal. Microsuction, by contrast, uses suction and does not introduce any water.

Some differences worth understanding:

Neither method is universally “better” for every person. The appropriate technique depends on the individual’s ear anatomy, health history, and the nature of the wax. Your clinician will assess what is most appropriate for you.

What Happens During a Microsuction Appointment?

Before the Procedure

Your clinician will first look inside the ear using an otoscope (a small lighted instrument) to assess the amount and position of the wax, and to check the condition of the ear canal and eardrum.

They will ask about your ear health history, including whether you have had any ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, grommets, or infections in the past.

Softening the wax beforehand: In many cases, using a few drops of a suitable softening agent (such as olive oil or a pharmacy-recommended ear spray) for several days before your appointment can make wax easier to remove. Your clinician may advise this when you book, as it depends on your individual situation. Do not use any drops without first checking with a clinician if you have a known or suspected perforated eardrum.

During the Procedure

You will be seated comfortably. The clinician places a fine suction tube into the ear canal under magnified view. You may hear a low rushing sound from the suction device, and possibly a high-pitched tone in the ear during the process — this is normal and typically resolves once the procedure is complete.

Some people find the sound of the suction startling at first, but the procedure itself should not cause pain. If at any point you feel discomfort, let the clinician know immediately.

After the Procedure

Once complete, the clinician will look inside the ear again to confirm the canal is clear and the eardrum is visible and healthy. They will let you know what they found and whether any follow-up is warranted.

Most people can continue with their day immediately after microsuction. Some people notice a temporary change in how their hearing sounds as the ear adjusts — this generally settles quickly.

Who Is Microsuction Suitable For?

Microsuction may be appropriate for a wide range of people, including:

Hearing aid wearers, who can be more prone to wax build-up
People with narrow or irregular ear canals
People with a history of ear surgery, perforated eardrum, or grommets (discuss with your clinician first)
People for whom ear irrigation has not been suitable in the past
People experiencing sudden reduced hearing and suspecting wax as the cause

Microsuction is not appropriate in all situations. Your clinician will assess your individual circumstances before proceeding. If they have any concerns, they will discuss alternatives or refer you to an appropriate specialist.

Is Microsuction Safe?

When performed by a trained clinician who can see the ear canal clearly throughout the procedure, microsuction is generally considered a well-tolerated method of earwax removal. As with any ear procedure, there are some considerations to be aware of:

The suction sound can trigger a mild dizzy sensation in some people, which usually passes quickly
In rare cases, minor temporary discomfort may occur if the skin of the ear canal is sensitive
If you have active ear infection or a suspected perforation, the procedure may not be appropriate until this is assessed

Results vary from person to person, and outcomes depend on the type and amount of wax present. Your clinician will let you know what to expect for your individual situation.

Will Microsuction Improve My Hearing?

If reduced hearing is being caused by earwax blocking the ear canal, clearing the wax may result in a noticeable change in how clearly sounds come through. However, hearing difficulty can have multiple causes, and wax removal alone does not address hearing loss that has a different origin.

If you are experiencing hearing difficulty, your clinician may recommend a hearing assessment after wax removal to get an accurate picture of your hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral for microsuction earwax removal? In most cases, you do not need a GP referral to book microsuction with an audiologist. You can contact Hearing Help directly to arrange an appointment.

How often do people need earwax removed? This varies considerably from person to person. Some people never need it; others may benefit from removal every few months — particularly hearing aid users. Your clinician can advise on what is appropriate for your situation.

Can I use cotton buds to manage earwax at home? Most audiologists advise against using cotton buds inside the ear canal. They tend to push wax deeper rather than removing it, and can cause irritation or injury to the ear canal or eardrum. For routine ear hygiene, let the ear clean itself naturally, and speak to a clinician if you notice a build-up.

What if only one ear is blocked? Your clinician will assess both ears. It is common for one ear to have more wax than the other. They will only proceed with microsuction where it is clinically appropriate.

Can microsuction be done at the same appointment as a hearing test? Sometimes, yes — particularly if earwax is found during the otoscopy check at the start of a hearing assessment. Your audiologist will discuss the best approach for your appointment.

Book an Earwax Removal Appointment

If you are experiencing a blocked sensation, muffled hearing, or ringing that you think might be related to earwax, an assessment is a sensible first step.

Hearing Help offers microsuction earwax removal at our Redcliffe Peninsula clinic. Contact us to book or to ask any questions before your appointment.