Does a general practice perform ear wax removal?

A general practice may perform ear wax removal, or assess your ear and refer you to a service that offers it. Availability differs between practices because removal may require specific equipment and a clinician trained in the chosen technique. When you book, ask whether the practice provides ear wax assessment and removal, which methods are available, and whether an appointment with a particular clinician is needed.

The clinician usually looks inside the ear with an otoscope before recommending removal. They may ask about reduced hearing, discomfort, discharge, previous ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, or ear infections. Depending on your history and the wax position, removal may involve microsuction or ear irrigation; softening drops may be suggested before the procedure. The aim is to clear the canal while avoiding injury to the delicate skin or eardrum. Wax is a normal protective substance, so removal is generally considered when it blocks hearing, causes symptoms, or prevents a clear examination.

Contact the practice and describe the blockage, hearing change, pain, or other symptom rather than requesting a procedure without an assessment. Tell the clinician about ear operations, an eardrum perforation, tubes, infection, or marked dizziness. Do not put cotton buds, hairpins, or other objects into the canal, because they can push wax deeper or damage the skin. Avoid home irrigation unless a clinician has confirmed that it is suitable for you. For more detail about the procedure, see the Ear Wax Removal guide.

Seek prompt medical advice for severe or worsening ear pain, fluid or blood coming from the ear, fever, swelling around the ear, sudden hearing loss, or intense dizziness. These symptoms can need a medical examination before any wax treatment. Do not try to flush the ear if you have a known or possible eardrum perforation, ear tubes, recent ear surgery, or an active ear infection; tell the practice when you call so the safest assessment can be planned.

Ask: Is wax definitely causing my symptoms? Which removal method is suitable for my ear history? Should I use softening drops, and for how long? What should I do if my hearing does not improve after removal? These questions help distinguish a blocked canal from problems such as infection or another cause of hearing change.