Earwax Removal Maidstone, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells
At Kent Hearing we provide expert, professional earwax removal services using microsuction. Dr Priya Carling AuD, RHAD, and her experienced team use the latest and most advanced microsuction techniques and equipment to safely remove earwax, allowing you to enjoy better hearing and improved quality of day-to-day life.
We treat both adults and children of all ages, using the very latest technology to remove wax, debris and keratin from inside the ear canal, including retraction pockets and mastoid cavities where required, and can record video or take stills of the ear canal should surgical or additional medical opinion be required.
We provide an entirely patient-centred approach to all aspects of hearing care, putting the needs and long-term well-being at the heart of all that we do.
To book your appointment please call us on 01732 525912
Microsuction Earwax Removal in West Malling and Tunbridge Wells
Microsuction is the gold standard for earwax removal and is a quick, safe and painless procedure that has none of the risks associated with syringing. It uses a high-powered microscope which gives the audiologist the best possible close-up view of the ear canal, in combination with a very small suction device, similar to a tiny hoover, which is inserted expertly into the ear to remove earwax, dead skin or other dirt and debris from the ear.
Endoscopic microsuction
We may occasionally use endoscopic micro suction to remove earwax when visiting a patient in their own home or in a care home. While this method of earwax removal is safe and effective, it may not be suitable for more complex cases. We always therefore recommend that, wherever possible, patients visit our Kings Hill clinic for microsuction, so that the most the best possible treatment can be provided.
What is Earwax?
Earwax, also referred to as cerumen, is produced naturally, as part of our bodies defence mechanism. It is primarily made up of a mixture of dead skin cells from the ear canal and secretions from the glands inside our ears.
These combine to form the waxy-like substance commonly known as earwax.
Why is earwax important?
What are the symptoms of ear wax build-up?
Sometimes our ears produce more earwax than they can naturally clear on their own, leading to a build-up of excess earwax in the outer ear, or earwax can get trapped in the ear due to the shape of the ear canal. This can cause reduced hearing capacity, temporary hearing loss, itching or irritation in the ear, tinnitus (a ringing, hissing or buzzing in the ear) and earache. When this happens and the symptoms don’t go away after a couple of days, it’s important to seek expert help and remove any excess earwax so that symptoms don’t worsen.
Patients with psoriasis or eczema or other skin conditions may also need micro suction as the excess dead skin can combine with wax and hair and become impacted causing hearing loss, tinnitus or itchiness and discomfort.
The benefits of earwax removal
Patients usually feel the benefit of having earwax removed immediately. Most can hear clearly again, having struggled with hearing loss due to their earwax. Others who have been experiencing tinnitus or earache or irritation in the ear canal, find that their symptoms either reduce or go away altogether. Removing excess earwax also helps to reduce the future risk of ear infections and other conditions.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have my ears cleaned?
Everyone’s ears are different, so the recommended frequency for having ears cleaned depends entirely on the individual. Some people never need to have earwax removed, while others need microscution every few weeks or months to get rid of excess or impacted wax, so that they can enjoy normal levels of hearing with no pain or irritation. We have regular appointments available each week, so call us on 01732 525912 to book an appointment.
Should I use cotton buds or anything else to clean my ears?
Is ear wax removal safe?
Will ear wax removal at Kent Hearing hurt?
No. Microsuction is a painless procedure when undertaken by an experienced and qualified doctor or audiologist.
Kent Hearing is a well-established and highly respected audiology practice, with clinics at Kings Hill, near West Malling, Kent and at the Pantiles Eye Centre, Tunbridge Wells. The practice was set up in 2017 by Dr Priya Carling, AuD, RHAD and offers all aspects of hearing care, including hearing tests and diagnostics, hearing aids, tinnitus management, earwax removal and custom devices.
Kent Hearing is also one of the very few audiology practices in Kent to offer comprehensive children’s hearing services.
Dr Priya Carling (AuD, RHAD) is a highly experienced audiologist who’s previous roles include Director of Education at the UCL Ear Institute, Head of Audiology, Neurophysiology and Speech Therapy at the BUPA Cromwell Hospital, and Head of Audiology for East Kent Audiology Services. Our approach to patient care is entirely patient-centred, with Dr Carling personally treating or overseeing every patient’s diagnosis and hearing management plan.
