Microsuction
Our Preferred Method- Performed under direct vision
- No water, no pressure
- Safe for perforated eardrums
- Suitable for hearing aid users
- Immediate results
Clinical-Grade Microsuction
Safe, Painless Ear Wax Removal in Lancashire
Professional microsuction at our Longridge clinic, with same-day appointments available across Preston, the Ribble Valley and surrounding areas.
- No GP referral needed
- Flexible Appointments
- Qualified Clinicians
- From £40
Signs You May Need Ear Wax Removal
Ear wax is your body's natural way of protecting your ear canal, but when it builds up it can quickly become a problem. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, professional microsuction can clear them quickly and safely.
Blocked or full feeling
A persistent sensation that one or both ears are blocked or under pressure.
Muffled hearing
Sounds feel quieter, distant, or like you're listening through cotton wool.
Earache or pressure
Discomfort, dull pain, or pressure deep in the ear that won't shift.
Tinnitus
Ringing, buzzing or hissing sounds caused or worsened by wax buildup.
Dizziness or imbalance
Wax pressing against the eardrum can affect balance and trigger vertigo.
Itching deep in the ear
Persistent itching that cotton buds and drops won't resolve.
Hearing aid issues
Whistling, blockage or poor sound quality from hearing aids.
Persistent cough
A surprisingly common symptom triggered by wax irritating the ear canal.
Recognise any of these? Microsuction is the safest way to clear ear wax for good.
Book Your AppointmentWhy We Use Microsuction Over Other Methods
Microsuction is the safest way to remove ear wax. It's gentler, faster and significantly safer than the alternatives. Here's how it compares.
Ear Syringing / Irrigation
Flushes warm water into the ear canal under pressure. Carries a risk of perforating the eardrum, infection, or dizziness. The NHS no longer routinely offers syringing in many areas.
Cotton Buds
Push more wax deeper into the ear than they remove. They can damage the delicate skin of the ear canal and, in some cases, perforate the eardrum.
Ear Candles
No clinical evidence of effectiveness. Studies show they do not remove wax, and hot wax dripping into the ear poses a serious burn risk.
Drops Alone
Olive oil and over-the-counter drops can soften wax, but rarely remove a full blockage on their own. Best used to prepare for professional removal.
Transparent, Fixed Pricing
No hidden fees. No surprises. You'll know exactly what you're paying before we start.
- Full otoscopic examination of both ears
- Professional ear health assessment
- Aftercare advice if needed
- Full otoscopic examination of both ears
- Microsuction of one ear
- Aftercare advice
- Full otoscopic examination of both ears
- Microsuction of both ears
- Aftercare advice
- Best value for full clearance
Consultation Only
Full ear examination. If no wax requires removal, you only pay this fee.
£20
One Ear
Microsuction of a single ear, including a full ear examination.
£40
Both Ears
Complete microsuction treatment for both ears in one visit.
£60
What to Expect
A clear, calm and friendly process from start to finish. Here's exactly what happens before, during and after your appointment.
Before your appointment
We recommend using olive oil drops twice daily for 3 to 5 days before your appointment. This softens the wax and makes removal quicker, more comfortable, and more likely to be fully successful in a single visit. Olive oil is available from most pharmacies and supermarkets. Don't worry if you haven't had time, we can still see you.
During your appointment
Your clinician will begin with a full otoscopic examination of both ears, checking for wax, infection, or any other issues. Once we're confident microsuction is appropriate, we'll talk you through the procedure step by step. The suction device makes a slight whooshing noise but is painless. The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.
After your appointment
Most patients hear an immediate improvement and can drive home, return to work, or carry on with their day as normal. We'll provide aftercare advice and let you know if there's anything to watch out for in the coming days.
Committed To Keeping Our Customers Happy
★ 4.9 on Google
What is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal?
Microsuction is the safest, most precise method of removing ear wax available today. Using gentle suction combined with magnification, our clinician can see directly into your ear canal and remove wax without water, syringes, or any risk of damaging your eardrum.
It’s the same technique used by ENT specialists in NHS hospitals and is widely regarded as the gold standard for ear wax removal. Most appointments take around 30 minutes from start to finish, and the majority of patients notice an immediate improvement in their hearing.
Because microsuction doesn’t involve flushing water into the ear, it’s safe for people with perforated eardrums, previous ear surgery, hearing aids, or chronic ear infections, the same patients for whom traditional ear syringing is not recommended.
Why Choose Longridge Health Clinic?
Get professional ear wax removal with flexible appointments, fast relief, and expert guidance. Our GPhC registered pharmacists ensure you receive the highest standard of care.
Qualified, Registered Clinicians
Every appointment is performed by a fully qualified, professionally registered clinician trained in clinical microsuction.
Latest Microsuction Equipment
We use modern, clinical-grade microsuction equipment for the safest, most precise removal possible.
Same-Day Appointments
Don't wait weeks. Same-day and next-day appointments are usually available, including evenings and weekends.
Free On-Site Parking
Stress-free visits with free parking right outside the clinic. No city centre fees, no time pressure.
Ready to Regain Your Hearing?
Don't wait for symptoms to worsen. Book your appointment today and get fast, effective relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Qualified Pharmacists
- Flexible Appointments
- Top Customer Service
Does Microsuction Ear Wax Removal Hurt?
Microsuction is painless for the vast majority of patients. You’ll hear a slight whooshing or rushing noise during the procedure, but there should be no pain or discomfort. If you’re particularly sensitive, let your clinician know and they’ll adjust their technique accordingly.
How long does the appointment take?
Most appointments are scheduled for 30 minutes. The actual microsuction procedure usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, with the rest of the time spent on examination, discussing your symptoms, and aftercare advice.
Should I use olive oil before my appointment?
Yes, we recommend olive oil drops twice daily for 3 to 5 days before your appointment. This softens the wax and makes removal quicker and more effective. Standard olive oil ear drops are available from most pharmacies.
What if I haven’t used olive oil drops?
You can still come for your appointment. If the wax is too hard to remove safely in a single visit, we’ll recommend a course of drops and bring you back for a follow-up. You’ll only pay the consultation fee if no wax can be removed on the day.
Can I drive home afterwards?
Yes. There are no restrictions on driving, working, or any normal activities after microsuction.
Is microsuction safe if I wear hearing aids?
Absolutely. Microsuction is the recommended method of ear wax removal for hearing aid users, because regular wax buildup can cause hearing aids to whistle, block, or feel uncomfortable.
What happens if you can’t remove all the wax?
If we can’t fully remove the wax in a single visit (usually because it’s particularly hard or impacted), we’ll recommend a course of olive oil drops and bring you back for a follow-up appointment.
Is microsuction safe for children?
Microsuction is safe for older children, but we assess each case individually. Please call ahead before booking for under-16s so we can advise on suitability.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with us as a private patient. No referral, no NHS paperwork.
How is microsuction different from ear syringing?
Microsuction uses gentle suction under direct vision, with no water involved. Syringing flushes water into the ear under pressure. Microsuction is safer, more precise, and suitable for patients with conditions that rule out syringing, including perforated eardrums and previous ear surgery.
What does the £20 consultation fee cover?
The consultation fee covers a full otoscopic examination of both ears. If no wax is found that requires removal, you only pay this fee. If we proceed with microsuction, the consultation is included in the one-ear or both-ears price.
Book Your Microsuction Appointment Today
Ready to clear blocked ears and restore your hearing? Booking is quick and easy, and same-day appointments are usually available.
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