How should I prepare for my appointment? To get the best results from your ear wax removal appointment, we recommend using olive oil drops in the affected ear - or both ears - daily for up to 7 days beforehand.

Follow the instructions on the packaging, which typically suggest two sprays or drops, twice a day. This helps to soften the wax, making it easier and more comfortable to remove during your appointment.

We often recommend Earol, a popular choice that delivers a fine spray of olive oil for even coverage and ease of use.

Do you do home visits? Yes we do! We offer home visits across Swindon and the surrounding areas, making ear wax removal convenient and accessible for those who may find it difficult to travel. We also provide visits to care homes, residential homes and assited living facilities

Is it safe to remove ear wax at home? It depends. While using a few drops of olive oil or over-the-counter ear drops can help soften the wax, inserting objects like cotton buds or hairpins can push wax deeper and may damage the ear canal or eardrum. If you're experiencing symptoms, it's best to have your ears assessed by a professional. 

When should I consider professional ear wax removal? You should seek professional ear wax removal if you experience: blocked or muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness in the ear, ringing in the ears (Tinitus), earache or discomfort or dizziness related to wax build-up.

What is ear wax and why do we have it? Ear wax (also called cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It helps protect your ears by trapping dust, bacteria, and other small particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. It also keeps the ear canal lubricated, which helps prevent dryness and irritation.

What should I do after the procedure? Most people feel immediate relief after ear wax removal using either irrigation or microsuction, and there's usually no downtime needed. Aftercare tips:
- Avoid inserting anything into your ears (including cotton buds)
- Keep your ears dry for at least 24 hours, especially if you had irrigation
- If you’ve been advised to use drops, continue as directed to help maintain ear health
- Contact us if you experience any unusual symptoms like pain, discharge, or reduced hearing

How often should I get my ears checked or cleaned? This varies from person to person. Some people naturally produce more wax than others. For most people, once or twice a year is enough. If you wear hearing aids, use earplugs regularly, or are prone to wax build-up, you may benefit from more frequent checks. Regular check-ups can help prevent discomfort, blockages, or hearing issues.

Will the wax come back? Yes – ear wax is a normal, ongoing part of your ear’s self-cleaning process. In many cases, it clears naturally, but for some people, it can build up again over time. Things that can increase the chance of wax returning include:
- Narrow or curved ear canals
- Use of hearing aids or earplugs
- Genetics or skin conditions
- Regular use of cotton buds or in-ear headphones

Is the procedure painful? Ear wax removal is generally not painful, especially when performed by trained professionals using microsuction or irrigation. You may feel some mild discomfort or pressure, particularly if there’s a large blockage or sensitive ear canal, but the procedure is quick and well-tolerated by most people. If you’re feeling nervous, we’ll talk you through the process to make sure you're comfortable every step of the way.

Is ear wax removal safe for children? Yes – ear wax removal is safe for children, provided it is carried out by experienced professionals. We are trained to work with all age groups, and we tailor our approach to ensure your child feels at ease. Microsuction is often the preferred method for children, as it’s gentle, doesn’t involve water, and allows for precise removal. We’re happy to answer any questions you have ahead of your child’s appointment.

Can you help if I have hearing aids, perforated eardrums, or other ear conditions? Yes, we can. We assess each client individually to determine the safest and most effective method. Microsuction is usually the recommended technique for people with perforated eardrums, ear infections, or hearing aids, as it doesn’t introduce moisture and is highly controlled. We’ll take a full history and perform an ear examination before starting any treatment. If we ever feel that ear wax removal isn’t suitable for you, we’ll explain why and advise on next steps or referral options.

Are there any reasons why I might not be able to have the procedure on the day of my appointment? Yes, in some cases we may need to postpone treatment if it’s not safe or appropriate to proceed. Common reasons include:
- Excessively hard or impacted wax that hasn’t been softened with drops
- Active ear infections, swelling, or discharge
- A perforated eardrum, unless microsuction is deemed safe
- Severe pain or bleeding in the ear canal
- Recent ear surgery or medical conditions requiring specialist care
If any of these issues are identified during your assessment, we’ll explain the situation clearly and advise you on next steps - whether that’s softening the wax further, rescheduling, or referring you to a specialist.

To help avoid delays, we recommend using olive oil or ear-softening drops for 5–7 days before your appointment, unless otherwise advised.

How long does the procedure normally take? The ear wax removal procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the amount and type of wax, as well as whether one or both ears are being treated. If the wax is particularly stubborn or impacted, it may take a little longer - or we might recommend a follow-up appointment after further softening with drops. We always allow enough time to ensure the procedure is carried out safely, comfortably, and thoroughly