More Information

Microsuction is a quick, safe way to remove earwax but as with any procedure there are some potential side-effects.

Some providers tuck this information away or do not share it until your appointment, but we believe it is best to be clear before booking an appointment. This list is in order of most common to most unlikely side-effects of wax removal and is intended to reassure you that we understand what we are doing and also to ensure you know what could happen.

We can answer any questions you have, either through the contact form or at your appointment if you need more information.

• It is noisy, and some people feel mild discomfort or tenderness in the ear afterwards. Minor grazes and spot bleeding (5 in 100) can occur but this usually settles quickly. We will advise you if we see either of these during your appointment

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) is normally short-lived (1 in 100) but very occasionally it can persist for a longer period (1 in 5000)

• A brief spell of dizziness (1 in 200) may occur

• Infection is uncommon (1 in 500)

• A temporary change in hearing can occur (1 in 1000)

• Serious problems are very rare (fewer than 1 in 10,000 experience these) but can include a small hole in the eardrum or permanent changes to hearing levels

All of these risks are minimised by using the smallest effective suction tip and keeping suction time to a minimum.

We will stop at any time if you are uncomfortable.

Alternatives (as described elsewhere on this website) include manual removal, or water irrigation. Peterborough Ear Care does not offer ear irrigation due to the increased risks around this procedure.