What to Expect During a Microsuction Appointment

Key Takeaways:

• Prepare by using olive oil drops (2-3 drops twice daily) for 3-5 days before your appointment to soften wax
• The full appointment typically lasts 20-30 minutes: a 5-minute consultation, 2-3 minute examination, 10-20 minute procedure, and brief review
• You may feel a gentle pulling or tickling sensation during the procedure — sharp pain is not normal and should be reported immediately
• There is no recovery period; you can drive, work, and carry on with your day normally straight after

Your First Microsuction Appointment

If you’ve been referred for microsuction or booked an appointment at a private clinic, it’s natural to wonder what the experience will be like. Here’s a complete walkthrough of what to expect.

Before Your Appointment

Preparing Your Ears

Your clinic may advise you to use olive oil drops for 3–5 days before your appointment. This softens the wax and makes removal easier and more comfortable.

How to use olive oil drops:

1. Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up
2. Place 2–3 drops of medical-grade olive oil into the ear
3. Stay lying down for 5–10 minutes
4. Repeat twice daily for 3–5 days before your appointment

What to Bring

• A list of any ear-related medical history
• Details of any medications you’re taking
• Your hearing aid, if you wear one (so the clinician can check fit after)

During the Appointment

The Consultation (5 minutes)

Your clinician will:

• Ask about your symptoms and ear history
• Check for any contraindications
• Explain the procedure and answer questions
• Get your consent to proceed

The Examination (2–3 minutes)

Using an otoscope, the clinician will look into both ears to:

• Confirm wax is present
• Assess the type and amount of wax
• Check for any abnormalities

The Procedure (10–20 minutes)

You’ll be seated comfortably. The clinician will:

1. Position a microscope or wear magnifying loupes
2. Place a speculum gently at the ear canal entrance
3. Insert a thin suction probe (1–3mm diameter)
4. Use controlled suction to remove wax piece by piece
5. Repeat for the other ear if needed

What you’ll feel:

• A gentle pulling or tugging sensation
• Vibration from the suction
• Possibly a loud humming noise (varies by equipment)

What you won’t feel:

• Sharp pain (tell your clinician immediately if you do)
• The probe touching your eardrum (the clinician keeps a safe distance)

The Review (2–3 minutes)

After removal, the clinician will:

• Show you the state of your ear canal and eardrum
• Note any findings
• Provide aftercare advice
• Schedule a follow-up if needed

After the Appointment

Immediate Feelings

• Improved hearing — Often dramatic and immediate
• Sounds seem louder — Your ears are adjusting
• Slight tenderness — Mild and temporary
• Relief — Many patients describe significant comfort improvement

Getting Home

You can drive, work, and carry on with your day normally. Microsuction is considered safe and there’s no recovery period.

How Often Will You Need It?

This varies enormously between individuals:

• Some people never need it again
• Most people who are prone to buildup return every 6–12 months
• Regular users of hearing aids or earbuds may need more frequent appointments

Your clinician will advise on the right schedule for you.

Tips for a Better Experience

1. Use olive oil drops beforehand — Soft wax is faster and easier to remove
2. Stay still during the procedure — Movement makes the clinician’s job harder
3. Communicate — Tell your clinician if you feel pain or dizziness
4. Ask questions — A good clinician will explain everything they’re doing
5. Ask about their equipment — Modern, low-noise devices make the experience much more comfortable