If you’ve been experiencing muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness in your ears, or mild discomfort, a build-up of ear wax may be the cause. This guide explains what to expect before, during, and after a microsuction ear wax removal appointment at Ear Cleaning Clinic so you can arrive informed.
A little preparation can help make your appointment go smoothly. It’s not always necessary to use drops prior to your appointment, unless you are a child, previously had syringing or are a tradesman. Softening the wax before your appointment by using olive oil drops, or a commercially available ear wax softening product, for two to five days prior can help loosen compacted wax and make removal more comfortable.
A few drops in each affected ear, once or twice a day, is a common approach – but always read the label of whichever product you choose, and speak with a pharmacist if you’re unsure. Avoid using drops if you have a known or suspected perforated eardrum, or if you have any active ear pain, discharge, or infection. In those cases, please consult a health professional before using any ear drops.
Tradespeople can also read our ear wax preparation advice for tradies. For other preparation questions, see our ear-cleaning FAQs.
Please avoid inserting cotton buds, bobby pins, or any other objects into your ears in the days leading up to your appointment. This can push wax further into the canal or cause irritation.
If you have recently had ear surgery or have been diagnosed with a perforated eardrum, let the clinic know when you book so your nurse can provide a comprehensive assessment.
No special equipment is needed. If you hold a pension or concession card, please bring this along to your appointment so we can offer you the procedure at a discounted price.
We recommend arriving 5-10 minutes before your appointment if you are a new patient to give time to fill in your medical form. Don’t forget your glasses!
When you arrive at Ear Cleaning Clinic, our friendly reception team will give you a new patient form to fill out, if not already done so through the email link sent to you at the time of booking your appointment online. Our nurses will then lead you into our clinic rooms and use a speculum and microscope to examine your ear canals before proceeding.
During the microsuction itself, you may hear a rushing or whooshing sound – this is simply the suction device operating near your eardrum and is entirely normal.
Our microscopes are connected to a TV, so you can watch the whole procedure live and view your clean ears afterward.
The appointment typically takes around 15-20 minutes, though this may vary depending on the amount and consistency of wax present.
Many people notice a difference in their hearing immediately after wax is removed, though individual experiences vary. Some temporary sensitivity to sound is normal – your ears may have adjusted to muffled hearing over time.
After your appointment:
Good question. When you have syringing at the doctors you need to oil your ears for days. However we can just clear them on the day without drops if it’s a moderate build up. However, with young children we do require wax softening drops prior to the appointment. If you have grommets or a perforation (hole) in your ear drum, it is important that you do not place any drops in your ears, unless prescribed by your GP.
Professional ear wax removal is generally not painful, though you may feel strange pressure, tickling, or mild discomfort. If the wax is deeply impacted or the ear canal is inflamed, you might feel a brief pull, but pain is uncommon – so please tell your nurse if you’re feeling any discomfort.
You can go back to normal life hearing better and feeling better.You can even fly the same day!
If you’re concerned about earwax build-up or your hearing feels muffled, the team at Ear Cleaning Clinic is here to help. No referral is needed – you’re welcome to contact us directly.
Phone: 1800 327 253
Book online: Book Ear Cleaning at Gold Coast Clinic Today
Clinics located in Bundall QLD and Tweed Heads NSW.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any condition, and is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you experience ear pain, hearing changes, discharge, dizziness, or suspect a blocked or damaged eardrum, consult a doctor or qualified healthcare provider before attempting any home treatment. Always speak with a physician before using any ear cleaning method, product, or home remedy, especially if you have a history of ear surgery, perforated eardrums, or chronic ear conditions.
Two Gold Coast locations. Open Monday to Saturday. Most appointments available within days.
