• Serious complications from previous irrigation
• A middle ear infection (otitis media) within the last 2 months
• A history of ear surgery (excluding grommets in place for less than 2 years) and no
  longer attending ENT appointments
• A perforated eardrum or mucous discharge within the last 2 years
• A cleft palate (repaired or unrepaired)
• An active, painful ear infection (acute otitis externa)

Most people can have earwax or debris removed at their GP practice using water irrigation,
but microsuction is preferred for the above conditions.

The suction device operates like a vacuum cleaner and may be noisy but is generally quick
and painless. Removing hard objects may cause slight discomfort, and the healthcare
professional will inform you if this is expected. To minimize discomfort:

• Use a wax-softening spray (e.g., Earol® olive oil spray) for 3 nights before and on the
  morning of the appointment.
• Bring the spray to the appointment, as it may be used to soften wax during the
  procedure.

Do:

• Clean around and behind your ears with a dry tissue or alcohol-free baby wipes after
  showering or bathing.

Do Not:

• Use cotton buds, scratch, or poke your ears, as this can lead to wax buildup or
  infections.
• Use cotton buds, tissues, or materials to soak up moisture; allow ears to dry naturally.
• Use over-the-counter ear products if there is a risk of a perforated eardrum.

For Itchy Ears or Infections:

• Avoid getting water, soap, or shampoo in the ear canal during bathing or showering.
• Use a small piece of cotton wool (about twice the size of your thumbnail) coated with
  white soft paraffin, placed at the entrance of the ear canal (not pushed inside).

• Wash the hearing aid mould daily with warm, soapy water during treatment.
• Discuss with your hearing aid provider:
• Venting the hearing aid mould to allow air circulation.
• Using a hypo-allergenic mould to reduce skin reactions.

To keep ears dry while swimming:

• Wear a tight-fitting swimming cap or headband to protect ears from water.
• Use cotton wool or earplugs, kept in place by a headband or cap.
• For frequent ear infections, visit an audiologist for custom silicone swimming plugs.

Some wounds do not require closure with stitches and in these cases the area will recover by
‘natural wound healing’, where the body gradually grows new skin over the affected area.

The results are usually back and reviewed within 4 weeks. You will be contacted with the results
directly. If you have not heard 6 weeks after the procedure or have any queries, please contact:
info@theprivatemedicalgroup.co.uk / 0333 210 2146.