Ear Wax Removal Aftercare: What's Normal (and What Isn't) After Microsuction

What to expect immediately afterwards

Microsuction removes wax under direct vision using a fine suction device. As with other procedures, it can have side effects. Tell the treating clinician about symptoms such as:

• Changes in hearing or sensitivity to sound.
• Discomfort, irritation or bleeding.
• New or increased tinnitus, or dizziness.

Looking after your ears in the days ahead

• Avoid pushing cotton buds or anything else into the ear canal.
• Follow your clinician's advice on keeping your ears dry when showering, washing your hair or swimming.
• Ask the clinician whether any drops or ongoing wax care are appropriate for you.
• If you wear hearing aids, follow any instructions you were given about using them after treatment.

When to get back in touch

Please contact the treating clinic or your GP if you have concerns, including any of the following:

• A blocked feeling or hearing that has not returned after treatment.
• Pain or discomfort after the procedure.
• Any discharge, bleeding or a bad smell from the ear.
• Ongoing dizziness or ringing (tinnitus) that's new or worse than usual.

Seek urgent GP or NHS 111 advice for sudden hearing loss, rapidly worsening hearing or hearing loss with earache or discharge.

How often should I have my ears checked?

There's no fixed schedule — it depends on how quickly you produce wax. Some patients we see every six months, others once every couple of years. If you notice your hearing gradually dulling, a feeling of fullness, or your hearing aids sounding quiet, that's usually a good sign it's time.

Frequently asked questions

Can you shower after ear wax removal?

Follow the aftercare advice given for your ears. You may be advised to keep the ear canal dry when showering or washing your hair, particularly if it is irritated or you have a perforation or previous ear surgery. Check with the clinician before swimming if you are unsure.

My ear still feels blocked after microsuction — is that normal?

Temporary hearing changes can occur, but blockage can have other causes. If hearing has not returned or you are concerned, contact the treating clinician or your GP. Do not wait for a fixed number of days if hearing is suddenly worse.

Is ear pain after microsuction normal?

Microsuction can cause discomfort or irritation. Contact the treating clinician about pain, discharge or bleeding after the procedure. Hearing loss with earache or discharge needs urgent GP or NHS 111 advice.

When will my hearing return to normal?

The result depends on the cause of the hearing difficulty. Temporary hearing changes or sensitivity can occur after microsuction. If hearing has not returned after wax treatment, arrange a check; seek urgent advice for a sudden deterioration.

Is a little dizziness normal?

A brief moment of dizziness during the appointment can happen and settles on its own. Persistent dizziness, pain, discharge or bleeding aren't normal — please contact the clinic.