Water Syringing vs Microsuction
Water syringing is uncontrolled
If you’ve been to your GP in the past for a blocked ear, you probably had your ear syringed, so you may be surprised to learn that this method is no longer recommended by Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists and Ear Nurses, even some GPs themselves. Ear syringing involves forcing water into the ear under high pressure in an attempt to dislodge wax. The problem is that the speed and the force of the water cannot always be controlled, potentially leading to injury. The ear canal cannot be visualised during this procedure either.
Complications of ear syringing
Your ear is a delicate structure which can be harmed quite easily by pressurised water. Syringing can cause:
- Damage to the delicate skin of the ear canal
- Perforation of the eardrum
- Ear infection
- Unpleasant sensations such as dizziness, and nausea
Microsuction is gentle and effective
Unlike water syringing where a sudden and often uncomfortable jet of water enters the ear canal, micro-suction uses a controlled, low pressure suction to gently remove wax from the canal. The trained Ear Nurses who perform the treatment use binocular glasses with magnification allowing close examination of the ear to target the wax and prevent damage. It is precise, controlled and effective, and is the gold standard for wax removal.
What is Microsuction?
Microsuction is a gentle, professional, water-free procedure to remove ear wax, dry skin, foreign bodies and infective debris from your ears.
Binocular glasses and suction is used by trained Ear Nurses to clean your ear canal. This is the same method used by Ear Nose & Throat Specialist doctors. Ear suction is carried out with a small suction catheter attached to a low-pressure suction machine that works like a gentle vacuum cleaner. The nurse may also use fine instruments, such as tiny forceps and spoons, to help remove wax.
FEES & Charges
| Ear examination and consultation fee of both ears: | $140 |
| Goverment Pension/DVA/Health Care Card holders: | $130 (not Seniors Card) |
Taking Care Of Your Ears
It is normal for ears to contain wax. Ears are also self-cleaning! The skin cells within your canal work like a conveyor belt to move the wax out.
BUT using cotton buds, swimming regularly and other behaviors such as frequent headphone use can affect your ear’s ability to clean itself.
That is why some people are more prone to blockages than others. It could also be genetic – things like narrow or curvy canals, lots of hair, and skin conditions can cause wax to build up.
Being exposed to dusty and loud environments can also cause blocked ears. Because of this we see a lot of tradesmen, construction site workers, swimmers, surfers, and musicians.
