Safe, professional ear wax removal in Tilehurst & Reading using microsuction and ear syringing.
Blocked, itchy or uncomfortable ears? Reduced hearing or a “full” sensation could be caused by a build-up of earwax. At Livingstons Hearing and Vision Care in Tilehurst, we offer safe, professional ear wax removal using both microsuction and ear syringing techniques.
Our experienced audiologists provide quick relief in a calm, clinical setting, trusted by residents across Tilehurst and the Reading area.
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In the UK, ear wax removal is currently unregulated. Since routine NHS ear wax removal became less available, many short courses have appeared, sometimes lasting only one or two days and aimed at people with little clinical background.
We have seen patients with ear canal damage, incomplete wax removal and repeat visits after unsuitable treatment elsewhere. Microsuction is very safe in trained hands, but it still needs anatomical knowledge, clinical judgement and the right equipment.
At Livingstons, your appointment is carried out by a fully qualified HCPC-registered audiologist with over 9 years of clinical experience. Livingston completed microsuction training at Aston University Birmingham in 2017.
We use hospital-grade equipment, video otoscopy and careful post-procedure checks. If we see anything that needs medical attention, we explain it clearly and advise the right next step instead of simply removing wax and sending you away.
Micro-suction is a precise method of removing ear wax using a fine sterile suction probe and specialist magnification. Unlike home remedies or cotton buds, it allows the clinician to see the ear canal clearly while removing wax in a controlled way.
It is often suitable for people who have blocked ears, reduced hearing, ear fullness, itchy ears, tinnitus made worse by blockage, or wax build-up before a hearing test or hearing aid fitting.
For best results, use a wax softener such as Earol olive oil spray for 3-5 days before your appointment, unless our audiologist has advised otherwise. Softened wax is usually easier and more comfortable to remove.
Do not use cotton buds, ear candles or metal tools. These can push wax deeper, irritate the ear canal or increase the risk of eardrum damage.
Let us know if you have had ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, recent infection, ear pain, discharge, dizziness, tinnitus changes or sensitivity to loud sound. This helps us decide the safest approach.
If no wax is found, or your hearing does not improve after removal, we can explain what we see and recommend a hearing screening, full hearing test or medical referral where appropriate.
Earol-style olive oil softeners are a simple way to prepare the ear canal before removal. You can ask us what to use when booking, or pick up suitable preparation products from the clinic if needed.
Do not use drops if you have been told you have a perforated eardrum, active infection or if drops cause pain. Contact us first and we will advise.
We ask about ear surgery, perforations, infections, pain, discharge, dizziness, tinnitus, current medication and previous wax removal. This checks whether micro-suction is suitable and whether any extra caution is needed.
Before treatment, we explain what we are going to do, what you may feel or hear, and the small risks involved, such as temporary dizziness, loud suction noise, mild discomfort or irritation. Treatment only starts once you are happy to proceed.
We inspect both ears using otoscopy or video otoscopy to confirm whether wax is present, where it is sitting, and whether the ear canal and eardrum look healthy enough for treatment.
You remain seated and comfortable. We may use a protective drape and talk you through the process so you know what to expect before the suction probe is used.
A fine sterile suction probe is gently guided into the ear canal under magnification. Wax is removed gradually, with pauses if needed. Where micro-suction is not the best method, we discuss suitable alternatives.
After removal, we re-check your ears to make sure the canal is clear and the eardrum is visible. We explain what we found, give aftercare advice and recommend a hearing test or medical referral if your symptoms suggest something more than wax.
Book an appointment at our Reading Tilehurst clinic to come in and see us. Disabled access is available, and parking instructions are available when booking.
Earwax helps protect the ear canal and delicate inner structures by trapping dust, dirt and debris before they reach the eardrum, reducing the risk of infection.
Earwax contains natural oils that help keep the skin inside the ear canal from drying out and becoming irritated.
The ear canal is designed to be self-cleaning. As new earwax is produced, it gradually moves outwards and carries trapped debris with it.
Earwax is normal and necessary, but excessive build-up can cause fullness, ear pain or difficulty hearing. Avoid cotton buds, as they can push wax deeper and risk damaging the eardrum.
