Earwax Removal

Ear wax is a natural and important part of ear health, helping to protect the ear canal from dust, debris and infection. Your ears are naturally self-cleaning, but sometimes wax can build up and cause symptoms such as blocked ears, reduced hearing or discomfort.

At Balance & Ear Care Sussex, we provide professional ear wax removal for anyone aged 12 years and over using three clinically recommended methods: microsuction, irrigation and manual instrumentation. Following an assessment of your ears and medical history, we will select the most appropriate method for you.

If you are unsure whether wax is causing your symptoms, our free Ear Health Check provides an opportunity to have your ears examined and receive professional advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes ear wax build-up?

Ear wax (cerumen) is completely normal and plays an important role in protecting your ears from infection, dust and debris.

Your ears are naturally self-cleaning. Movements of the jaw while talking and eating slowly move wax towards the entrance of the ear. Sometimes this process doesn't work as effectively, allowing wax to build up deeper in the canal.


  • Naturally narrow ear canals: Some people simply have smaller anatomy that traps wax more easily.
  • Wearing hearing aids: These devices can block the natural outward flow of earwax.
  • Using earphones or ear plugs regularly: Constant use can trap wax and compress it inside the canal.
  • Cotton buds pushing wax deeper: Using swabs often has the opposite effect, compacting the wax instead of removing it.
  • Frequent swimming: Water can cause existing earwax to expand and become trapped.
  • Naturally producing more wax: Some individuals naturally produce an above-average amount of wax.
What are the symptoms of ear wax build-up?

Common symptoms include:

  • Reduced or muffled hearing: Sound becomes noticeably quieter or less clear.
  • A blocked or full sensation: The ear feels stuffed, heavy, or plugged up.
  • Ear discomfort: Mild irritation or a dull ache inside the ear canal.
  • Tinnitus: Persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming sounds in the ears.
  • Itching: A nagging itch deep inside the ear that is hard to reach.
  • Ear pressure: A feeling of uneven pressure, similar to being on an aeroplane.
  • Hearing aid whistling: Blockages cause sound to bounce back, creating feedback.
  • Difficulty hearing in background noise: Finding it extra hard to follow conversations in crowds.
  • Dizziness: A mild sense of unsteadiness or disorientation (occasionally).
  • Water becoming trapped: Fluid gets stuck behind the blockage after swimming or showering.
  • Popping or crackling sensations: Strange noises occurring when swallowing or moving your jaw.
What happens during my wax removal appointment?

Appointments are scheduled for approximately 45 minutes but it doesn't always take this long.

During your appointment we will:

  1. Discuss your symptoms and medical history: Reviewing your ear health history and any current concerns before beginning.
  2. Examine your ears using specialist equipment: Assessing the ear canal and eardrum to clearly locate the blockage.
  3. Show you the inside of your ears: Using a digital camera so you can view the build-up yourself if you wish.
  4. Remove the wax using the safest technique: Gently clearing the blockage using the most appropriate professional method.
  5. Re-examine your ears once removed: Checking the health of the ear canal to ensure everything is completely clear.
  6. Show you before-and-after images: Providing a visual comparison of the results if you would like to see them.

The technique we use depends on your individual circumstances. For example, if you have previously had ear surgery, recurrent infections or a perforated eardrum, microsuction may be the safest option.

Once the wax has been removed we can fully assess the health of your ear canal and eardrum.

What methods of wax removal do we use?

We offer all clinically recommended methods of ear wax removal, including:

  1. Microsuction
  2. Irrigation (water removal)
  3. Manual Instrumentation

The most appropriate method is selected based on your ears, the consistency of the wax and your medical history.

Do I need to prepare for my appointment?

To make wax removal more comfortable, we advise that you use olive oil twice daily for three days prior to the removal procedure.

This will help to soften any hard, dry or compact wax in your ears. This is especially important if it has been in there for a long time.



We also recommend that you avoid using cotton buds or other objects to clean your ears, as this can push wax deeper into the canal and make removal more difficult.

What happens if I need wax removed more frequently?

Some people naturally produce more ear wax or find that it builds up regularly. If you need ear wax removal several times a year, our BECS Membership may be a convenient option.

Membership gives you access to as many ear wax removal appointments as you need throughout the year, helping you keep your ears clear and comfortable without having to pay for each appointment individually.

You can choose to schedule regular appointments to stay on top of your ear care or simply book an appointment whenever you feel you need one.

BECS Membership may be particularly suitable if you:

  • Regularly experience ear wax build-up
  • Wear hearing aids or earplugs
  • Swim frequently
  • Require ear wax removal several times a year
  • Prefer the reassurance of having ongoing access to professional ear care
When should I book an Ear Health Check instead of wax removal?

If you are unsure whether ear wax is causing your symptoms, our free 15-minute Ear Health Check is a good place to start.

An Ear Health Check may be more appropriate if you have never had ear wax removed before, are unsure whether you have a build-up, or are experiencing other symptoms such as ear pain, swelling or discharge.

During the appointment, we will examine your ears and discuss your symptoms with you. We can then advise whether ear wax removal is appropriate and, if necessary, recommend the most suitable next step.

Depending on your individual circumstances and appointment availability, it may not always be possible to remove the wax during the same visit. However, we can discuss your options and create a plan for your ear care.

If your ear appears to be infected or inflamed, we may not be able to perform wax removal and may recommend that you seek appropriate medical advice first.