Private Microsuction Clinic

 

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Our Clinic

We offer a private microsuction clinic for anyone who 8 years old and over and is not a registered patient at Gloucester Road Medical Centre.  

The NHSE regulations 2015 sets out the basic exclusion in charging NHS patients for care. The practice therefore only offers this private microsuction service to non-registered patients.  

For further information please visit the Government Legislation website. 

 

What is Microsuction? 

Microsuction is a wax removal technique using a precision suction apparatus to remove unwanted or obstructing skin cells and wax from the external auditory meatus (ear canal). We use surgical lenses (loupes) which provide binocular magnification so that the tip of the fine cannula (the suction tube) is always under direct vision.  

This technique contrasts with ear syringing where liquid is squirted into the ear to dislodge the wax.  

Microsuction is a more precise and gentle technique than ear syringing. Occasionally we may need to use other instruments to remove hard wax. The technique means that we can always see what we are doing and can avoid touching the sides of the ear canal which can make the process a lot more uncomfortable. 

  

What to expect 

Private ear wax clearance using Microsuction, is provided by specially trained nurses who will show you the equipment and talk you through the procedure. The Microsuction process can be noisy and occasionally make you feel dizzy. This usually passes within a few seconds. If you are having the procedure undertaken on both ears, it will take up to 30 minutes. 

  

Why Microsuction is better  

Compared to traditional forms of wax removal (ear drops, irrigation or syringing), Microsuction is: 

  • Safer 
  • Quicker 
  • Cleaner 
  • Generally, better tolerated, with less side effects 
  • More effective and likely to need only one appointment 
  • Doesn’t need weeks of waiting for drops to soften the wax 
  

Prior to the Procedure 

It is important that you soften the ear wax by putting 2 drops of olive oil into the relevant ear/ears, twice daily, for five to ten days prior to your appointment. 

So that you get the most from this, you must lay down to do this. Please note that if you have not done this, and the wax is too hard to remove, you will still be charged for the procedure.  

 

Fees 

  • The charge for this service is £60 (30 minute appointment). 
  • You will be required to pay in full when you book the appointment online.  
  • At the initial consultation if, when we assess you, we are unable to perform the service, we will complete a check on your ears and provide advice. We will charge £10 for this service, so a refund will be issued for the remaining amount.  
  • If we are unable to complete a successful procedure you will be returned to the care of your GP who can refer you for further specialist help.  
  • If you cancel your appointment within 48 hours or do not attend, you will still be charged £25.00. A refund will be issued for the remaining amount. 

Book online here