Ear Wax Removal: Your Top Questions Answered (No Cotton Buds Required!)
- relaxed666
- Nov 5
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever wondered whether ear wax removal hurts, how often you should get it done, or if you might walk out hearing birds singing for the first time in years… you’re in the right place.
Ear wax is one of those strange things — everyone has it, nobody wants to talk about it, and nearly everyone has questions. So let’s clear up the confusion (and hopefully your ears) with answers to the most common questions people ask about ear wax removal.
🤔 1) Does ear wax removal hurt?
Short answer: No. When performed correctly (microsuction, irrigation, etc.), ear wax removal should not be painful. You’ll likely feel some gentle pressure or sound during the procedure, but no pain.If it ever does hurt — that’s your sign to stop and find someone properly trained.
👂 2) Is microsuction safe?
Yes — it’s widely considered the safest and most effective method. Microsuction uses a small medical vacuum to gently remove wax while the clinician looks inside the ear through a microscope or camera. No water, no fuss, just tidy ears.
⏱️ 3) How long does the appointment take?
Usually 15–30 minutes. Unless your ears have been collecting wax like rare Pokémon cards — in which case, it could take slightly longer.
🔊 4) Will I hear better afterwards?
Often, YES! If wax was blocking your ear canal, you may notice improved clarity and volume right away. Clients frequently say it feels like someone just turned the world up from “quiet mode” to “cinema mode.”
📅 5) How often should I get my ears cleaned?
It varies. Some people go years without needing help, while others benefit from seeing a professional every 6–12 months. If you wear hearing aids, you may need more regular care.
🏠 6) Can I clean my ears at home?
Ahh, the cotton bud question…Please don’t — cotton buds are wax-compacting devices disguised as hygiene tools. They often push wax deeper, increasing blockage. Stick to olive oil drops if needed or just leave your ears alone until you need a professional.
😌 7) Is ear wax normal?
Totally. Ear wax (cerumen) is a protective substance that moisturises the canal and helps prevent infection. Having wax is good — having a blockage is when we intervene.
🤷♂️ 8) Why do I get so much wax?
There are lots of possible reasons:
Narrow ear canals
Genetics
Dry skin
Using earbuds or hearing aids
Going rogue with cotton buds
Some people simply make more wax — you overachievers, you.
💦 9) Is water irrigation still used?
Yes — irrigation (flushing with warm water) is still used and can work well. However, microsuction is now preferred because it’s cleaner, faster, and safer — especially for those with perforated eardrums or ear infections.
❗ 10) Is it safe if I have perforated eardrums, infections or hearing aids?
Microsuction is generally considered the safest method for these situations. Always tell your clinician about your history so they can choose the safest method.
🔁 11) Will the wax come back?
Eventually, yes. Ear wax is constantly produced. How quickly it builds varies from person to person. Think of it like hair growth — normal, healthy, occasionally inconvenient.
😵💫 12) Will I feel dizzy afterwards?
Sometimes — especially if the wax removal changes the temperature inside your ear canal. Don’t panic, it usually passes quickly. Most people feel absolutely fine.
👀 13) Do you look inside my ears first?
Yes. A proper assessment is essential. We’ll check what’s going on, then choose the best method to remove any wax (or tell you if wax isn’t the issue).
❌ 14) What if you don’t find wax?
It happens! Sometimes symptoms like muffled hearing are due to other causes (e.g. infection or blocked hearing aid tubes).If there’s no wax, we’ll help point you in the right direction.
👶 15) Can children get ear wax removal too?
Yes — though suitability depends on the child’s age and comfort. If a child can sit safely and stay relaxed, removal can usually be performed. For more complex cases, referral may be needed.
✅ Final Thoughts
Ear wax removal is simple, safe, and often leads to immediate improvements in hearing and comfort. Whether you’re blocked, curious, or just tired of feeling like one ear is permanently “on mute,” a quick professional appointment can make a big difference.
And remember:🟡 Cotton buds = No🟢 Microsuction = Yes
Have questions or want to get your ears checked? You know where to find us — we’re all ears. 😉
Littleborough Ear Care
07818 020 777
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