At Vivo Pharmacy, we understand that ear health is an often-overlooked aspect of overall wellbeing. A build-up of earwax can lead to symptoms such as muffled hearing, discomfort, or even dizziness. While earwax is a natural substance that protects the ear canal, excessive build-up can require professional removal. Our clear earwax clinic in Bristol offers safe, effective solutions to restore your hearing comfort.

Microsuction vs Irrigation: Which is Best?

When it comes to professional earwax removal, the two most common clinical techniques are microsuction and irrigation. Both methods are performed by trained professionals, but they differ in approach and effectiveness.

Microsuction uses a small, gentle suction device to remove earwax while being guided by a microscope or magnifying loupe. This method allows the clinician to see exactly where the wax is and remove it with precision. Microsuction is generally considered the safest and most comfortable technique, especially for those with narrow ear canals, a history of ear infections, or a perforated eardrum. It is also suitable for people with hearing aids, as it avoids introducing moisture into the ear.

Irrigation, on the other hand, involves flushing the ear canal with a controlled stream of warm water. While this can be effective for some patients, it may not be suitable for everyone. Those with a perforated eardrum, recurrent ear infections, or certain ear conditions are typically advised to avoid irrigation.

At Vivo Pharmacy, we favour microsuction for its precision, safety, and ability to provide immediate results with minimal discomfort.

Preparing for Your Appointment

To ensure the best results from your appointment, it helps to prepare your ears before treatment. Applying ear drops or a softening spray for three to five days before your visit can help loosen the wax, making removal easier and more comfortable. Products containing olive oil or sodium bicarbonate can be particularly effective.

If you experience pain, discharge, or sudden hearing loss, it’s important to mention this when booking. In some cases, you may need to be referred to a GP before undergoing earwax removal.

How Often Do You Need Microsuction?

The frequency of earwax removal varies from person to person. Some individuals rarely experience blockages, while others produce wax more quickly and require regular appointments. For people prone to excessive build-up, a visit to the clear earwax clinic every six to twelve months can help maintain optimal hearing health.

Regular maintenance can be particularly beneficial for:

• –> Hearing aid users, as wax can block the devices and affect their performance

• –> People with narrow or unusually shaped ear canals

• –> Those with a history of recurrent wax build-up or ear infections

Your clinician can advise on the ideal schedule based on your ear health and lifestyle.

Why Professional Removal is Better than DIY

While there are many at-home remedies and devices marketed for ear cleaning, these can often do more harm than good. Cotton buds, for example, tend to push wax deeper into the canal rather than removing it. Some home syringing kits also carry the risk of damaging the eardrum or introducing infection.

Professional earwax removal ensures the process is safe, hygienic, and tailored to your needs. Clinicians can also identify underlying conditions during the procedure, providing a more comprehensive approach to ear health.

Booking Your Appointment at Vivo Pharmacy

Our clear earwax clinic in Bristol offers same-day or pre-booked appointments, making it easy to get the care you need without long waits. Whether you are experiencing discomfort or simply want to maintain good hearing health, our trained team is here to help.

By choosing a professional service like microsuction, you can enjoy clearer hearing, reduced risk of infection, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your ears are in safe hands.

If you are experiencing symptoms of earwax build-up, contact Vivo Pharmacy today to arrange your appointment. We are committed to providing safe, effective, and comfortable ear care for all our patients.

This blog was written on behalf of Vivo Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.