Ear Wax Removal (Microsuction) in Northcote
What Is Ear Wax?
Ear Wax (cerumen) is a natural substance made by glands in the ear canal. It helps protect, lubricate, and clean the ear by trapping dust, debris, and microorganisms.
Most people produce a normal amount of ear wax, but some produce more than others. When too much builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause hearing loss, discomfort, or even infections.
Why Does Ear Wax Build Up?
Ear wax naturally accumulates over time. Common reasons it causes problems include:
At-home cleaning attempts – Using cotton buds or other objects often pushes wax deeper, causing irritation and tiny scratches in the ear canal. This can make the ear produce even more wax.
Earbuds and headphones – Regular use can push wax further into the ear, creating a blockage (sometimes called a “wax plug”).
Safe and Effective Ear Wax Removal Options
Avoid cotton buds or objects – Inserting anything into the ear can make the blockage worse, and may even cause pain or injury.
Ear syringing – This method uses water to flush out wax. It sometimes works, but because ear wax is oily and sticky, it often doesn’t come out completely. Syringing can also be uncomfortable, and in rare cases, may damage the eardrum.
- Ear microsuction (the safest and most effective option) – Ear Microsuction gently removes wax using a tiny surgical vacuum and a special magnifying lense. The lense allows your GP to clearly see the ear canal, making the procedure precise and safe.
Because microsuction is performed dry, there’s a much lower risk of infection compared to syringing. It’s considered the most effective method for removing ear wax.
How Do I Prepare for My Appointment?
To make your ear wax removal appointment as smooth and effective as possible, we recommend using ear wax softening drops for 3-5 days before your visit. This helps loosen the wax so it can be removed more easily.
How Long Does An Appointment Take?
Most appointments take around 30 minutes. This includes:
A visual inspection of the ear
The ear wax removal procedure
Any additional testing if required
Sometimes a second appointment may be needed, for example if the wax is very hard, stuck to the skin or hair in the ear canal, or if softening drops weren’t used beforehand. If that’s the case, your GP will let you know.
Costs And Medicare Rebates
The cost of an ear wax removal appointment will cost $130 ‘Out of Pocket’.
This is the total amount after your Medicare rebate, which we process for you on the spot.
If you don’t have a Medicare card, you’ll be charged the full consult fee and won’t be eligible for the rebate.
Our Doctors Providing Ear Wax Removal
The following GPs at Doctors of Northcote are trained in ear microsuction: