DOES MICROSUCTION HURT?

If ear microsuction is performed by an experienced clinician the procedure is unlikely to be painful. The main issue that patients notice is the sound of the suction probe which is reasonably quick to become accustomed to. We use extra fine tips for suction of wax very close to the drum, in order to avoid excessive exposure to suction noise.

If you suffer with infection of the outer ear canal then the infection itself could be uncomfortable and so microsuction of the infected ear canal can be painful. However, microsuction of infected debris and wax from the external ear canal is the most effective treatment for external ear infection (otitis externa), along with antibiotic drop useage if the cause is bacterial. You can help reduce some of the discomfort by taking your preferred painkiller an hour prior to attending your appointment.