What to Expect When Having Your Ears Microsuctioned

Blocked ears, reduced hearing or an uncomfortable feeling of fullness can sometimes be caused by a build-up of ear wax. Microsuction ear wax removal is a controlled method of removing excess or impacted wax using gentle suction while the audiologist views the ear canal under magnification.

At Expression Audiology, microsuction is performed by audiologists trained in ear wax management, with our clinical procedures informed by Audiology Australia’s Cerumen Management Practice Guidance – Summary, which is based on the available evidence for appropriate cerumen management, removal techniques and contraindications.

Before your microsuction appointment

For the best chance of removing your ear wax comfortably and successfully, we recommend using a wax-softening product in the days leading up to your appointment, unless you have previously been advised that ear drops are not suitable for you.

Softening the wax beforehand can make hard or impacted wax easier to remove.

If you are unsure whether you should use a wax softener, particularly if you have a history of ear surgery, ear infection, discharge or problems with your eardrum, speak with our team before using drops.

What happens at a microsuction appointment?

Your appointment isn’t simply about removing wax. Your audiologist will first make sure that microsuction is appropriate for your ears.

1. We talk about your ear health

Your audiologist will ask about your symptoms and relevant ear and medical history. This may include previous ear surgery or infections, ear pain or discharge, changes in hearing, dizziness and other factors that may affect whether wax removal is appropriate.

This initial assessment is an important part of safe ear wax management and is consistent with Audiology Australia’s guidance.

2. We examine your ears

Before removing anything, your audiologist will carefully examine your ear canals and eardrums.

We assess how much wax is present, where it is sitting and its consistency. We also look for signs that microsuction may not be appropriate and that another form of management or medical assessment is required.

Importantly, not every blocked ear is caused by ear wax.

3. We explain the procedure

If microsuction is appropriate, your audiologist will explain what will happen and discuss the potential benefits and risks with you before gaining your consent.

You can ask questions before or during the procedure, and you can ask us to stop at any time.

4. We remove the wax

Microsuction uses a small suction device to gently remove wax while your audiologist views the ear canal under magnification.

The procedure is generally quick and well tolerated. Because the suction is operating inside your ear canal, however, it can sound loud.

You may also notice some mild pressure or a strange sensation as the wax is removed. Your audiologist will check on your comfort throughout the appointment.

If the wax is too hard or difficult to safely remove, we may recommend further wax softening and a second appointment rather than continuing unnecessarily.

How long does ear microsuction take?

Most ear wax removal appointments take approximately 15–30 minutes, although this will vary depending on the amount and consistency of the wax and whether one or both ears require treatment.

What should I expect afterwards?

Many people notice an immediate difference after significant wax has been removed. Sounds may temporarily seem louder simply because the obstruction has gone.

You may also experience temporary sensations such as mild tenderness, fullness, increased awareness of sounds, tinnitus or brief dizziness.

After your appointment, we generally recommend keeping your ears dry for 24 hours and avoiding putting cotton buds, fingers or other objects into your ear canal. If your audiologist has been unable to remove all of the wax, they may recommend continuing wax-softening drops and returning for another appointment.

Ear wax removal following Audiology Australia guidance

At Expression Audiology, we take safe and effective ear wax removal seriously.

Our audiologists providing microsuction are appropriately trained in ear wax management, and our clinical procedures are informed by Audiology Australia’s Cerumen Management Practice Guidance.

The guidance is based on the best available evidence for appropriate cerumen management and supports hearing health practitioners with information about wax removal procedures, techniques and contraindications.

At Expression Audiology, this means carefully assessing your ears before proceeding, discussing the procedure and gaining informed consent, following appropriate infection-control procedures, prioritising your comfort and recognising when microsuction may not be appropriate and further medical assessment is required.

Our aim is simple: to provide safe, evidence-based ear wax removal performed by trained audiologists.

Looking for ear microsuction in Melbourne?

Expression Audiology provides microsuction ear wax removal in Melbourne with trained audiologists.

If you’re experiencing blocked ears, excessive ear wax, reduced hearing or hearing aid difficulties, we can examine your ears and determine whether microsuction is appropriate.

Contact Expression Audiology to book your ear wax removal or microsuction appointment.