Microsuction is a technique for removing ear wax or debris using either an ENT (Ear Nose and Throat) binocular operating microscope as used in hospitals by consultants. This allows the clinician to look in the ear canal in great detail and use a very fine sterile suction device at low pressure to remove the wax.  This process is not dissimilar to using a tiny vacuum cleaner inside the ear to remove the wax.  Occasionally we may need to use other instruments to remove hard wax (such as Jobson Horne probes or micro forceps).

Using microsuction means that we can visualise the external ear canal and its contents in great detail while having minimal physical contact with the earlobe. This makes the process more comfortable for patients. Preparation of wax with olive oil ear drops is not usually necessary but may make the procedure faster and more comfortable for the patient.