ear Wax removal
ear wax removal microsuction
Accent Hearing is proud to be the first Audiology Clinic to offer micro-suction earwax removal in the Clarence Valley. This exclusive regional service is available at our Grafton Clinic.
Micro-suction is the preferred method to guarantee safe and effective removal of ear wax as well as other foreign bodies that may obstruct the ear canal. We recommend using wax softener spray a few days prior to attending your micro-suction appointment to ensure that wax is soft enough to be removed.
The advantage of getting an Audiologist to remove ear wax is that they examine many ear canals daily and are able to clearly identify and precisely locate the blockage, making it extremely safe.
If you experience any of these symptoms you might have ear wax build up:
- Hearing Loss
- Feedback/whistling from wearing hearing devices
- Feeling of fullness
- Itching
- Pain
- Tinnitus
- Discharge
- Odour
How Wax Is Produced
Wax is produced by a natural process in the ear canal and is made up of oil and dead skin. Whilst ear wax is usually detected in the outer ear, it’s actually made in the ear canal. This section of the ear is lined with wax-producing cerumenous glands. Ear wax, also known by its technical name cerumen, is primarily created by those glands. Sebum, a fatty secretion of the skin, and dead skin cells also contribute to the makeup of earwax. It’s usually made up of about 60 percent keratin (a protein), with the rest a combination of dead skin cells, fatty acids, cholesterols and other compounds. Normally it works its way to the outer ear and is flushed away when the hair is washed, however, wax can sometimes build up as we age, making it difficult for the ear to self-clean. For hearing aid users, this build-up can prevent the amplified sound reaching the eardrum, or may cause the aid to whistle (feedback).
Why Use Micro-suction?
Micro-suction procedure usually takes only a few minutes, however can take as long as 20-30 minutes for hard embedded wax. Unlike ear syringing or ear irrigation, where ear wax is flushed out without a view of the canal, during micro-suction, the canal and the ear wax is being directly viewed with the microscope and sucked out. This significantly reduces the potential for perforation of the ear drum, improves comfort and avoids complications that may arise from traditional ear irrigation such as further complicating a foreign body.
Why see an Audiologist?
Audiologists are well-positioned to provide this service as they examine many ear canals daily and fit hearing devices.- Can precisely and easily visualise any amount of ear wax, normal or build up amount (blockage).
- The procedure is very safe using the Microsuction equipment which is a dry (no water) method, significantly reducing the risk of infection and mess.
- It is well tolerated by the majority of people, which gives you fast results and is more effective than the traditional wax removal methods (syringing).
- The Audiologist is aware of how to minimise any risks that may accompany this procedure and will be fully explained.
How does the procedure work?
A specially devised head-worn microscope (developed by Australian Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeon Dr J Vorrath) is used to carefully examine the ear, this enables the Audiologist to see whether and how much wax is present.
Upon identifying the location and extent of wax within the canal, our Doctor of Audiology uses a fine, low-pressure suction device to safely remove the blockage. This is done whilst the microscope provides an excellent view.
The Cost Involved
The procedure will involve a consultation fee and may involve two consultations to first identify the ear wax build up (or no build up). Therefore, the cost may vary. There is a chance that the ear wax cannot be removed by this method from either a very hard build up of wax, a current ear infection or other contraindication identified at the beginning and you will have to be referred to an Ear Nose & Throat Specialist for further treatment.
Prior to arranging your appointment, keep in mind that you have to be able to remain quite still during the procedure. Injuries are extremely rare and micro-suction currently represents the safest and most effective means for removing ear wax.
Treatment commences a
few days prior to your appointment by applying ear wax softener spray, available at the clinic or your local Chemist to use at home.
Once the ear wax has had time to soften, the gentle micro-suction wand is used to progressively remove all wax build-up in the ear canal.
Arranging Appointments
If you have wax build up and need to have it removed, why not book in for a consultation. Please note that an initial, investigative consultation may be required prior to performing the procedure. You will be asked a series of questions and sign a disclaimer in relation to your ear health before any procedure takes place.
