Earwax Removal Service Costs in the UK
Earwax removal services help UK patients regain hearing clarity, reduce tinnitus, and relieve pressure by safely clearing the ear canal. Clinics offer microsuction (fine suction under magnification), irrigation, or manual curettage depending on wax consistency and ear history. Treatments take 15 - 30 minutes and often include hearing checks or otoscopy photos so you can see before/after results.
🔦 Microsuction is now the gold standard because it avoids water and works well even when ears are inflamed or previously had surgery. Some clinics loan olive oil drops beforehand to soften wax, while others treat immediately using small suction tubes and video otoscopes.
Need a broader hearing review? Pair wax removal with our hearing aid assessment guide.
How Much is an Earwax Removal Service in the UK?
Single ear microsuction: £40 to £70.
Both ears (microsuction or irrigation): £65 to £110.
Home visit service: £90 to £150 when audiologists travel to your house.
Wax removal + hearing test bundle: £100 to £160.
Softening drop kits: £10 to £20.
Regional Price Differences in the UK
London (Central): Microsuction suites in Harley Street or Canary Wharf average £80 - £120 for both ears.
Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds: High-street audiologists and ENT clinics charge £60 - £90.
Smaller cities (Edinburgh, Cardiff, Newcastle): Expect £50 - £85, though appointments may run only a few days per week.
Factors that Affect Earwax Removal Pricing
👂 Number of ears treated
Removing wax from both ears takes longer and uses more consumables.
🔧 Technique used
Microsuction typically costs slightly more than irrigation because of specialist vacuums and magnification equipment.
🏠 Home visit vs clinic
Mobile audiologists add travel time and sterilisation costs to the bill.
📋 Medical history
Perforated eardrums or previous ear surgery require ENT oversight, increasing fees.
📍 Location
Central London clinics rent premium rooms, while regional practices often operate inside pharmacies or optical stores.
How to Save Money on Earwax Removal
📦 Book family or dual appointments
Many clinics discount back-to-back appointments for couples or parents with teenagers.
🧾 Use employer or membership perks
Some healthcare memberships include annual wax removal - check your plan before paying.
🏥 Combine with hearing tests
Paying for wax removal plus a hearing screen in one visit can cost less than separate bookings.
🪣 Maintain with drops
Using olive oil drops monthly keeps wax soft so you need fewer professional cleanings.
FAQs
Does microsuction hurt?
No - you’ll feel light pressure and hear a gentle hum for 5 - 10 minutes while the clinician watches your ear canal on magnified screens.
Do I need to use drops beforehand?
Most clinics ask patients to soften wax with olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops for 2 - 3 days so the procedure is quicker and more comfortable.
Can I safely clean my ears at home?
Avoid cotton buds - they push wax deeper and risk perforating the eardrum. It’s safer to book professional removal every 6 - 12 months.
What if I have a perforated eardrum?
Clinicians choose dry microsuction without water and, if needed, refer you to an ENT consultant to review the perforation before future treatments.
Conclusion
Earwax removal costs £40 - £120 and takes less than half an hour. Pair appointments, use softening drops, and check membership perks to keep ears clear without paying premium London rates. 👂
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Alan Frost |
| Grew up in and live in Birmingham. Writer, publisher, editor, EFL teacher, composer. |
