ENT

Ear Wax Removal

Wax is part of the ears natural cleaning mechanism; it helps to moisturise the skin and protect against bacteria and germs.

In a normal, healthy ear, chewing motions and jaw movement help to gradually move wax to the entrance of the ear canal without the need for any treatment. Interfering with this process by inserting foreign objects (like cotton buds) into the ear can cause a blockage and risk injury or infection.

Steps to get started

Our team will support you through every stage, from your first enquiry to your recovery.

Using Health Insurance

If you have private health insurance, check with your provider to see what’s covered. We’re happy to help with any paperwork and can work directly with many insurance companies to make the process smoother for you.

Paying for Treatment Yourself

If you’re paying for treatment yourself, we’ll give you clear information about costs and help you plan your care. You’ll know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees.

Costs

Costs can vary depending on the procedure and your personal treatment plan. We’ll give you a clear price guide upfront and explain what’s included.

**Please note a consultation fee of £35 will be chargeable if wax removal is not required** 

Treatment From

£80.00

Prices accurate as of February 2025 and may be subject to change.

Book an Appointment

You can book an appointment online, call our friendly team, or ask your GP for a referral.

We’re here to answer your questions, talk you through your options, and help you feel confident about your treatment.

Our Locations

Each site is equipped with modern facilities and experienced teams who will look after you throughout your treatment and recovery.

Our hospitals are easy to reach and offer a calm, comfortable environment to support your care. Wherever you decide to go, you’ll receive the same high standard of personalised treatment.

When Do You Require Treatment For Earwax Build-up

  • There is obstruction of the view of the ear canal and eardrum, preventing a complete examination of the ears
  • You feel a blocked sensation in the ear, earache, a reduction in hearing, tinnitus or dizziness 
  • There is interference with hearing aids, causing whistling and/or a reduction in overall performance  

At Kingsbridge Hearing Care, our experienced Audiologists and Ear Care Nurses routinely perform ear wax micro suction. Micro suction is a safe, quick and effective way of removing ear wax. During the procedure a fine suction tube is used to gently remove wax from the ear canal. Unlike ear irrigation, no water is required, significantly reducing the risk of infection. 

Not all ear wax softeners are compatible with microsuction  

If you are attending for wax removal, please only use sterile olive oil in the days leading up to your appointment as using alternative drops/sprays increases the likelihood of a second visit being required to complete the procedure. 

Earol is an easy-to-use sterile olive oil spray.  The nozzle applicator disperses the oil into the ear canal in a fine mist, allowing it to coat and soften the wax with less likelihood of it blocking the ear, when compared to olive oil inserted via a dropper. 

Are there risks involved with wax removal? 

As with any procedure there are some risks involved, Kingsbridge Hearing Care staff have undergone specialist training in wax removal to minimise the risk of any harm, however, to make the procedure as safe as possible it is also essential to provide us with accuratemedical history information and remain still during the procedure.    

What if the wax cannot be removed?  

In some cases, it may not be possible to remove all the wax in one visit, particularly if the wax has not been pre-softened with sterile olive oil or an inappropriate wax softening agent has caused the wax to stick to the skin in the ear canal and eardrum. In this case you will be advised to soften the wax with sterile olive oil and another appointment will be booked to complete the procedure.  

What if a complication occurs? 

Wax blockages can sometimes conceal other ear conditions, if we find evidence of an infection or a previously undiagnosed ear condition or if the wax cannot be safely removed it may be necessary to refer you to another medical professional. 

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If health issues are affecting your daily life, we’re here to help you move forward. Get in touch today to book your appointment or ask any questions you may have.

We look forward to supporting you on your journey to feeling healthier, more comfortable, and confident again.