About Bournemouth Ear Clinic

Rest assured that our specially trained clinicians will use the safest method of wax removal to help you hear again. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process.

Here's what you can expect during your appointment:

* Your appointment will take around 30 minutes to complete.
* We'll start by asking you a few questions to get a better understanding of the health of your ears.

* We'll explain the procedure, show you the equipment, and answer any questions you may have before obtaining your consent.
* Our clinician will then examine your ear canals and ear drums using an otoscope.
* Once you're comfortable, our clinician will use a magnifier and suction tube to gently remove any wax from your ear.
* After the procedure, our clinician will check the health of your ears to ensure everything is normal.
* If we're unsuccessful in removing any wax, we'll advise you on your next steps.

 The answer is yes, but with a specific timeline in mind. Microsuction works best when the patient has used olive oil ear drops between 3-5 days before the procedure. This allows the oil to soften the earwax, making it easier to remove during the microsuction process.

It's important to note that if the oil preparation has been used for a longer period of time (more than 5 days), the wax may become too sludgy and wet, making it more difficult to remove successfully via microsuction.

We only recommend using a clinically treated oil such as Earol for the purposes of microsuction. This product is specifically designed to lubricate the ear canal and soften the earwax just enough to allow for effective removal using the suction probe. We do not recommend using more aggressive treatments, such as hydrogen peroxide or sodium bicarbonate, as these can make it harder to remove the earwax and may even cause inflammation of the ear canal.

 To ensure a smooth and safe recovery, please avoid the following:

1. **Inserting cotton buds or swabs into your ear**: This can lead to earwax being pushed further back into your ear canal, which may cause complications.
2. **Ear candles and other home remedies not advised by medical professionals**: These methods are not scientifically proven and can potentially cause harm to your ears.
3. **Over cleaning your ears**: Avoid excessive cleaning, as this can disrupt the natural balance of your ear canal and lead to further issues.
4. **Over wetting your ears for 4 to 5 days after the procedure**: This can increase the risk of infection and slow down the healing process.

Take a small piece of cotton wool (out of an ordinary cotton wool ball you will get approx. 10 ear plugs)

Dip Cotton wool in a pot of Vaseline then place the cotton wool in the bowl of 

your ear covering the opening of your ear canal. Add more Vaseline on top of 

the cotton wool using your finger, making sure to cover it generously.

It is the Vaseline that makes your ear waterproof.

DO NOT solely rely on cotton wool, as it will absorb water and not effectively waterproof your ear. 

After completing your water activity, remove the cotton wool and dispose of it.

Leave any excess Vaseline in place, as it acts as a lubricator for your ears.

DO NOT attempt to remove it with a cotton bud

DO NOT submerge your head under the water in the bath.

NEVER USE COTTON BUDS, as you may push the wax further down the ear canal and impact it against the ear drum.

When using EAR PLUGS, if you move the jaw the shape of the inside of the ear changes, and can cause leakage.