Frequently Asked Questions

Highlands and Islands Ear Care  provide earwax removal using microsuction, warm water irrigation, or manual removal, depending on what is most suitable for your ears. Every appointment begins with a thorough consultation and ear examination using a video otoscope to assess your needs and ensure the safest and most effective treatment is chosen for you.

Not everyone requires earwax removal. If we find that treatment isn't necessary, we'll explain what we've seen, answer any questions you may have, and offer honest advice on the best next steps. 

We provide earwax removal for adults aged 18 and over. To ensure the treatment is carried out safely, clients need to be able to remain still during the procedure.

If you're unsure whether treatment is suitable for you, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We'll be happy to discuss your individual circumstances and advise on the best course of action.  

 Your safety is always our priority, so there are some situations where earwax removal may not be appropriate.

• Unfortunately, we cannot provide treatment if you have a current ear or skin infection. If you've been prescribed antibiotics for an ear infection, we'll be happy to see you two weeks after you've finished your course, provided your symptoms have resolved.
• We are also unable to treat anyone who has a current or previous perforated eardrum, grommets, or a history of ear surgery. 
• If you've experienced sudden hearing loss within the past week, it's important that you seek urgent assessment from your GP or NHS service before arranging earwax removal.

If you're unsure whether you're suitable for treatment, please get in touch. We'll be happy to discuss your circumstances and advise you on the safest next steps.

Using ear drops before your appointment isn't always necessary, but they can help to soften earwax and make it easier and more comfortable to remove.

If possible, we recommend using olive oil ear drops for 3–5 days before your appointment, unless you've been advised otherwise by a healthcare professional. Don't worry if you haven't had a chance to use drops—we'll assess your ears during your consultation and advise on the best course of action.

In some cases, if the earwax is too hard or impacted, we may recommend using ear drops for a few more days before carrying out treatment.

 Earwax removal can benefit anyone experiencing a build-up of earwax that's affecting their hearing or causing discomfort. It may be particularly helpful if you:

• Have blocked ears or reduced hearing.
• Wear hearing aids or earplugs regularly.
• Experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus) that may be related to earwax.
• Have a feeling of fullness or pressure in your ears.
• Have been advised by a healthcare professional that you have excess earwax.

If you're unsure whether earwax is causing your symptoms, don't worry. Every appointment includes a consultation and ear examination, and we'll provide honest advice on whether treatment is appropriate.

Highlands and Islands Ear Care is a mobile service, we offer flexible appointment times to suit your needs. We understand that life can be busy, so we aim to accommodate daytime, evening, and weekend appointments whenever possible.

If you can't find a suitable time, please get in touch and we'll do our best to arrange an appointment that works for you.