Frequently Asked Questions

Booking online is the quickest way to book your ear wax removal appointment. If you prefer to book by telephone you can call us on 0141 459 0005. If you require a home visit appointment you need to book by telephone so we can understand the patients needs and any additional requirements. 

Ideally we would suggest the use of olive oil for a few days leading up to your appointment . If you have not used oil or are booking a same day appointment we can still remove ear wax  in a safe and pain free way.

Yes, children can safely undergo ear wax removal at our clinic. We are one of the few licensed ear care clinics equipped to treat patients of all ages, including children. As long as your child is able to stay relatively still during the procedure, we can ensure a safe and effective treatment.

Our clinic is designed to be child-friendly, with techniques and a setting tailored to younger patients to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the process.

Ear wax removal is usually a comfortable procedure. We utilise two main methods: gentle water irrigation and microsuction, where a small device carefully removes wax by suction.

Most clients find the process pain-free, but some may notice mild discomfort or a unique sensation from the equipment. Our NHS trained practitioners are experienced in minimizing any discomfort, which is typically brief and mild. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, the practitioner will pause the procedure to ensure your comfort.

As we have various treatment methods available we can treat children and adults from the age 5 and above. If you have an pre existing ear conditions make us aware on arrival to help us complete your ear health check and clinical assessment. 

Ear wax removal is a routine and generally painless procedure that our clinic handles with the utmost care and expertise. We treat thousands of ears every month, which gives us extensive experience in providing high-quality ear care to our patients. Our dedicated staff is not only skilled in performing the procedure but also deeply committed to ensuring that every patient feels informed and comfortable throughout their visit.

We believe in the importance of patient education, which is why we take the time to thoroughly explain the entire process, from start to finish. Our team will walk you through how the procedure works, what you can expect during your appointment, and most importantly, how to maintain optimal ear health moving forward.

By equipping you with the knowledge and tools to care for your ears, we aim to prevent future issues and promote long-term ear health. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are passionate about providing you with a positive and reassuring experience.

If you attend your appointment and we do not discover wax you will be charged £20 for a consultation fee. This cost covers your full ear health check and any advice required to keep your ears in a healthy condition.

If further medical intervention is required we will coordinate directly with your GP or ENT clinic to make sure you receive the care you need.

Ear wax removal is generally a very low-risk procedure, but as with any medical treatment, there are some potential side effects, though they are uncommon. These can include temporary dizziness, mild discomfort, or a brief ringing sensation in the ears (tinnitus). Our NHS trained take every necessary precaution to reduce these risks and to ensure that your experience is both safe and comfortable.

After booking your appointment, you will receive an email with a consent form. This form provides detailed information about the procedure and outlines any potential risks, ensuring you are fully informed before your treatment.

Our ear care clinics employ a number of approved methods for ear wax removal, including microsuction, irrigation (this replaces ear syringing), and manual removal using specialized tools (instrumentation). The choice of method depends on the patients condition, the consistency and amount of ear wax, and personal comfort. Each method has its advantages, and our NHS Accredited Aural Care Specialists are trained to determine the most effective approach for each case. This will be determined after your initial consultation and initial photographs.

While there are numerous over-the-counter products and home remedies for ear wax removal, it’s crucial to exercise caution due to the potential risks associated with these methods:

• Limited Effectiveness: Many over-the-counter solutions may not work effectively for all types of ear wax or blockages, potentially leaving the issue unresolved.

• Risk of Wax Impaction: Incorrect use of home remedies or ear wax removal kits can sometimes push the wax deeper into the ear canal, worsening the blockage.

• Risk of Ear Damage: Without proper experience, using inappropriate tools or techniques can damage the delicate structures within the ear, leading to pain, infection, or even hearing loss.

• Disruption of Ear Canal Environment: Certain home treatments may alter the natural environment of the ear canal, potentially causing irritation or infection.

Considering these risks, it is highly recommended that ear wax removal be performed by NHS trained ear wax removal specialists. Our specialists are skilled in safe and effective removal techniques, ensuring the procedure is conducted with minimal risk and maximum comfort. Choosing professional care not only protects your ear health but also provides reassurance that your ears are being looked after by experts.

Yes, ear wax removal can lead to significant improvements in hearing, particularly when the accumulation of wax has been substantial enough to block the ear canal. When ear wax builds up, it can create a physical barrier that prevents sound from reaching the eardrum effectively, which can result in muffled hearing or even temporary hearing loss.

After the wax is safely removed, many patients experience an immediate and noticeable enhancement in their hearing clarity. Sounds that were previously dulled or difficult to hear may suddenly become much more distinct and crisp. This improvement can be particularly profound in cases where the wax build-up was extensive.

In addition to the improvement in sound quality, patients often report an overall enhancement in their hearing capabilities, leading to a better ability to engage in conversations and enjoy everyday activities. The benefits of ear wax removal extend beyond just hearing, as it can also reduce any discomfort or fullness in the ear that might have been caused by the wax blockage.

Yes, many private health insurance plans do cover the cost of ear wax removal procedures. However, coverage can vary depending on your specific insurance policy and provider. We strongly recommend that you contact your insurance company directly to confirm the details of your coverage before scheduling your appointment.

If your insurance does cover this procedure, claiming it is straightforward. At the time of your appointment, be sure to request a detailed receipt from our clinic. This receipt will include all the necessary information, such as the procedure performed and the associated costs, which you can then submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.

Our team is also here to assist you with any additional documentation that may be required to support your insurance claim. Whether it’s a formal letter, a detailed invoice, or any other paperwork, we are more than happy to help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible for you.

Taking these steps will help you make the most of your private health insurance benefits while receiving the high-quality ear care you need.

Microsuction is a highly effective and precise method of ear wax removal, often compared to using a tiny vacuum cleaner for your ear. This procedure involves a specialised, gentle suction device that carefully removes ear wax from the ear canal without coming into direct contact with the sensitive structures inside your ear. The process is typically quick, with most patients describing it as a light tugging sensation rather than discomfort.

One of the key advantages of microsuction is its accuracy. The procedure is performed under direct visualisation using magnified glasses, which allows the specialist to clearly see inside the ear canal and ensure that the wax is removed safely and thoroughly. This level of precision makes microsuction an ideal choice for removing ear wax, particularly in cases where the wax is hard, impacted, or located deep within the ear.

Microsuction is often preferred for its minimal discomfort and the reduced risk of complications compared to other methods, such as ear syringing. It’s a popular choice among our NHS trained ear wax removal specialists due to its effectiveness and the comfort it offers to patients.

However, it’s important to note that microsuction should only be performed by a trained professional. The ear canal is a delicate and small area, and attempting this method without proper training can lead to injury or damage. Our specialists are highly trained in this procedure, ensuring that it is conducted safely and effectively, providing you with peace of mind and optimal results.

Irrigation is a commonly used ear wax removal technique that can be likened to giving your ear canal a gentle, controlled shower. During this procedure, warm water is carefully introduced into the ear canal to soften and dislodge ear wax, which is then naturally flushed out of the ear. The sensation is somewhat similar to the feeling you might experience when water enters your ear while swimming, but it is much more controlled and gentle.

The process begins with our NHS trained ear wax removal specialists assessing the condition of your ear to determine the appropriate water pressure and temperature. The water is sprayed into the ear canal in a controlled manner, ensuring that it effectively loosens and removes the wax without causing discomfort. The entire procedure is designed to be both thorough and comfortable, providing a safe and effective way to clean the ear.

One of the advantages of irrigation is its ability to reach and clear out wax that might be stuck deeper within the ear canal, especially if the wax has hardened over time. The warm water helps to soften the wax, making it easier to remove without the need for physical instruments inside the ear.

However, it’s crucial to understand that ear irrigation should only be performed by a trained professional. The ear canal is a very small and delicate area, and improper irrigation techniques can lead to complications, such as pushing the wax further into the ear or causing damage to the ear canal or eardrum. Our specialists are trained to carry out this procedure with the utmost care, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout.

No, you should never insert anything into your ear that is smaller than your elbow—yes, that’s correct, nothing at all. Although it may be tempting to use cotton buds or swabs to clean the inside of your ears, these products are not designed for that purpose (just check the packaging).

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, typically falls out on its own as part of your ear’s natural cleaning process. While using cotton buds may seem like it’s helping to remove wax, it often does more harm than good. Instead of clearing out the ear canal, cotton buds can push some of the wax deeper inside, compressing it against the eardrum. Over time, this can lead to ear wax compaction, which may cause a blockage, reduce your hearing ability, and even increase the risk of ear infections.

Additionally, there are other factors that can interfere with the natural expulsion of ear wax. Genetics can play a role, as some people naturally produce more wax or have a different composition of wax that is less likely to fall out on its own. The use of in-ear devices such as earphones, earplugs, and hearing aids can also prevent wax from exiting the ear canal naturally. These devices can compact the wax further, leading to similar issues of blockage and potential hearing difficulties.

For safe and effective ear care, it’s always best to avoid inserting objects into your ears and instead seek professional advice if you believe you have a build-up of ear wax. NHS trained ear wax removal specialists are equipped to safely remove excess wax without risking damage to your ears.

UK Ear Care focus on the safe, pain free removal of ear wax. This allows us to be impartial about the need for hearing aids and other treatments. 

Our Glasgow ear wax removal clinic is just minutes from the city centre and has great access by road, train, subway or bus. We are open until 9pm 7 days a week.  There is lots of free parking around the clinic. As we are on the first floor we have limited wheelchair accessibility, if this is required please give us a call on 0141 459 0005 to book a home visit.

No, booking online or by telephone is free and we only charge after treatment. We accept payment by cash or card

We offer free cancellations and appointment changes up to 24 hours before your appointment. If you can not attend we appreciate notification by email or phone so we can make the space available for other patients. Late cancellation or no show patients are charged a £20 fee to cover missed clinical time.