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Microsuction

If you’re experiencing hearing loss, ear discomfort or a feeling of fullness in your ear, impacted earwax may be the cause. While earwax is essential for ear health, a buildup can block the ear canal and require professional removal.

Earwax, also known as cerumen, plays an important role in protecting your ears. It helps prevent dust and debris from travelling deeper into the ear canal and has antibacterial properties that help protect against infection.

Gentle, precise earwax removal performed by trained clinicians.

Gloved hand using a tool to microsuction earwax from a person's ear with a close-up inset.

Your ears are designed to clean themselves

Under normal circumstances, earwax gradually moves towards the entrance of the ear canal, assisted by the natural movement of the jaw and the skin lining the canal.Putting cotton buds, fingers or other objects into your ears can interrupt this process. It may push wax further inside, compact it or damage the delicate skin of the ear canal. In most cases, the safest approach is to leave the inside of your ears alone and allow them to clean themselves naturally.

When earwax becomes impacted

Sometimes earwax does not clear naturally and forms a hard or compacted blockage. This can cause:

  • Reduced or muffled hearing
  • A blocked or full sensation
  • Earache or discomfort
  • Ringing or buzzing in the ear
  • Dizziness or imbalance

Wax buildup may be more common in people with narrow or damaged ear canals, certain skin conditions, excess hair within the ear canal or regular hearing-aid use.

Who may benefit from microsuction?

Microsuction may be recommended when:

  • Earwax is affecting your hearing
  • Your ears feel blocked or uncomfortable
  • Wax is interfering with a hearing aid
  • A clinician needs a clear view of your ear canal or eardrum
  • Previous ear irrigation has been unsuitable or unsuccessful
  • Water-based earwax removal is not recommended for you

Every ear is different. Your clinician will examine your ears and recommend the most appropriate approach for your individual circumstances.

Meet Our Doctors

with special interest in Complex and Chronic Health Conditions

Dr Daniel Bosnjak

MD, FRACGP, BMedSci (Hons I)

Dr Lara Geerlings

DCH, MBBS, FRACGP
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