Microscopic Examination and Microsuction

Microscopic examination and microsuction is performed by an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist or audiologist to look into the ear and clear the ear canal of wax and debris.

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What is microscopic examination and microsuction?

Microsuction is the general term used to describe clearance of the ear canal done under direct vision using a microscope. The microscope allows your ENT consultant or audiologist to see into the ear clearly, and safely use instruments including low-pressure suction to clear the ear canal of wax, discharge, dead skin or other material that may be blocking the ear canal, and to assess the health of the eardrum. This is the gold standard treatment for clearance of debris in the ear canal.

Why is microscopic examination and microsuction done?

You might need microscopic examination and microsuction if you’re experiencing symptoms caused by a blockage or infection such as hearing loss, earache, pressure in the ears, tinnitus, and irritations in the ears.

 

What does microscopic examination and microsuction involve?

At OneWelbeck, microscopic examination and microsuction is performed as an outpatient treatment within a clinic consultation. Your consultant will begin by looking into your ear using a tool called a microscope. They will then guide a suction tool into your ear to remove anything causing a blockage in the ear canal. 

Are there any risks to having microsuction?

Microsuction is the safest way to have your ear cleared of blockage, and considered much safer than syringing or other mobile methods. Although you may experience some mild discomfort during microsuction, particularly if your ear is very inflamed, anaesthetic or sedation is not required. Most patients find the experience a little noisy, and occasionally some may experience some brief dizziness during the procedure. The procedure lasts seconds to minutes. 

 

All procedures carry a potential risk of infection, but this is minimal when microscopic examination and microsuction is carried out by a specialist. Your ears may feel a little sensitive after the treatment but this should pass in a few days as any small scratches or irritations begin to heal. 

Preparing for microscopic examination and microsuction

At your initial consultation, your specialist may ask you to use specific ear drops for a few days before the treatment. This helps soften any wax and loosen debris so it can be more easily removed with suction.   

Recovering from microscopic examination and microsuction

There is minimal risk associated with microsuction, however, some patients find the experience uncomfortable (others have a feeling of relief), some experience dizziness, and very occasionally there may be some bleeding from the ear canal after the procedure if the skin is scratched by removal of a dry crust.

 

You can go home straight away after the treatment. Depending on the outcome of the procedure you may or may not need to have a follow-up appointment.

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Microscopic Examination and Microsuction

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Health Insurance

This service or treatment is generally covered by most health insurance policies. You are responsible for checking your insurance policy cover, and you may need a referral letter. Check which insurance companies are covered.

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Self-Pay Available

This treatment is available for self-paying users. If you would like to see more information on pricing visit our pricing and payments page.

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Consultation Required

For this treatment you will need to have a 1-to-1 consultation at OneWelbeck first. To book in with our team of expert clinicians or to find out more about the process contact the relevant centre team.

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Next Day Availability

We usually have next day availability for this service, please call us to check availability.

Microscopic Examination and Microsuction Specialists

All our private ENT specialists at OneWelbeck in London are leaders in their sub-specialties, providing the highest quality treatment to ensure you receive the best available care. Click on the profiles below to see which of our consultants specialise in Microscopic Examination and Microsuction.