Ear Wax Removal

If you're struggling with blocked ears, reduced hearing or discomfort caused by ear wax, our trained team can help.

Book your appointment today and enjoy clearer hearing with our safe, professional microsuction ear wax removal service.

Excess ear wax is a common problem that affects people of all ages. While ear wax is an important part of keeping your ears healthy, too much can build up and cause blocked ears, reduced hearing, discomfort and other unpleasant symptoms.

At Tarbolton Pharmacy, we offer a professional ear wax removal service using microsuction, the safest and most effective method of removing stubborn ear wax. The procedure is quick, comfortable and carried out by trained clinicians in our private consultation room.

Ear wax (also called cerumen) is naturally produced by your ears to protect the ear canal from dust, bacteria and infection. Normally, the wax works its way out naturally.

Sometimes wax becomes impacted and builds up inside the ear canal. This is more common in people who:

• Wear hearing aids or earphones regularly

• Frequently use cotton buds

• Naturally produce excessive ear wax

• Have narrow ear canals

• Are older adults

When wax becomes impacted it often requires professional removal.

You may benefit from ear wax removal if you experience:

• Blocked ears

• Reduced hearing

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• Earache or discomfort

• A feeling of fullness in the ear

• Itching inside the ear

• Dizziness or balance problems

• Coughing caused by ear irritation

If you're unsure whether ear wax is causing your symptoms, our clinician can examine your ears and advise on the most appropriate treatment.

Microsuction is widely regarded as the gold standard for ear wax removal.

Unlike traditional ear syringing or irrigation, microsuction:

• Does not use water

• Is quick and precise

• Is suitable for many patients who cannot have ear irrigation

• Reduces the risk of infection

• Allows the clinician to see inside the ear throughout the procedure

• Is usually completed within 20–30 minutes

Most patients find the procedure comfortable, although you may hear some temporary suction noises during treatment.

Your appointment will usually include:

Ear Examination

We begin by carefully examining both ears using specialist equipment to determine whether ear wax is causing your symptoms.

Microsuction Treatment

If wax is present, it will be gently removed using a fine suction device under direct visual guidance.

Aftercare Advice

Once treatment is complete, we'll check your ears again and provide advice on maintaining healthy ears and preventing future wax build-up.

If your symptoms are not caused by ear wax, we will advise you on the most appropriate next steps.

Patient receiving microsuction using Tympa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_p2ILANS5c

Information about Tympa in Community Pharmacy: https://youtu.be/1wIPv7wKR9I

When you choose Tarbolton Pharmacy you benefit from:

• Experienced, trained clinicians

• Safe microsuction equipment

• Private consultation facilities

• Convenient appointments

• No GP referral required

• Friendly, professional service

• Local healthcare you can trust

Our aim is to provide fast access to professional ear care without long waiting times.

Is microsuction painful?

No. Most patients find the procedure comfortable. You may hear some suction noise and occasionally experience mild discomfort if the wax is very hard, but treatment is generally well tolerated.

Should I use olive oil first?

Yes. Unless advised otherwise, we recommend using olive oil ear drops for 3–5 days before your appointment to help soften the wax and make removal easier.

How long does the appointment take?

Most appointments take around 20–30 minutes.

Can children have microsuction?

Please contact the pharmacy before booking, as suitability depends on the child's age and individual circumstances.

How often should ear wax be removed?

Many people never require treatment. Others who naturally produce excessive wax or wear hearing aids may benefit from periodic removal.