It can be easy to consider something like the presence of ear wax in your ears, a relatively trivial issue. In fact, when enough ear wax builds up to block your ear canals, it can affect day-to-day life and activities, causing pain, impaired hearing & infections.
Here at Bodyvie, we offer two types of ear wax removal treatment; irrigation and microsuction. Both treatments differ in terms of who they are suitable for.
Irrigation
Ear irrigation is a routine procedure that removes excess ear wax and foreign materials from your ear canal.
A safer alternative to the outmoded practice of ear syringing, irrigation is more effective at cleaning and works by gently pumping water into the ear. The water is able to break the accumulated ear wax, which is then flushed out into a special flask known as a noots tank.
Ear irrigation is a reputable treatment but is not suitable for everyone. Those who have had complications with irrigation treatment in the past, who have a history of ear complications or who have perforated their eardrum in the last year, should not be having ear irrigation treatment.
The good news is that alternative treatment is available. Bodyvie is also offering ear microsuction treatment, which we have outlined below.
Benefits:
- Safe procedure. There is no syringe involved and the water is controlled at low pressure.
- Quick. Irrigation earwax removal takes a maximum of 15 minutes to perform.
- Clean. The process washes your ear and eardrum, removing wax and foreign materials affecting your ear function.
Microsuction
The main difference between irrigation and microsuction is the visibility your doctor has whilst performing treatment.
Your doctor will be able to see clearly into your ear canal with the help of an endoscope or loupe and they will not make contact with your ear canal walls or eardrum, only the wax that needs removing. This renders the process more comfortable and safe for those who have suffered complications with their ears in the past and are not suitable for ear irrigation.
Benefits:
- Safe. Your doctor has a clear and uninterrupted view of your ear canal, allowing them to perform the treatment safely and effectively.
- No water used. Ear microsuction does not use water as part of treatment, which could otherwise cause problems for those who are susceptible to ear infections.
- Suitable for patients with a history of complications. Whilst irrigation is perfectly safe for patients who haven’t had recurrent ear problems, it can be a risk for those who have.
Whether you’ve had a perforated eardrum, mastoid cavity or you’re seeking treatment for something that’s become lodged in your ear, microsuction is risk-free.
If you think you have complications with ear wax build-up, you should not attempt to deal with this at home, as you could cause irrevocable damage to your ears.
For any patients with a doctor appointment our team will instruct you to apply warm ear wax softening oil 24 hours ahead of bookings. (Otex Olive Oil Ear Drops or other brands provided by your pharmacy will be appropriate).
Contact us today for professional ear wax removal treatment, performed by experts.
