Ear Syringing vs Microsuction: What’s the difference?
If you have ever had wax removal done before that was not microsuction it was almost certain to have been ear syringing. The GP used to do this technique before most of them stopped ear cleaning altogether. This method is what most of us grew up with. In recent years microsuction has taken over from syringing and is now considered gold standard in ear health cleaning. So why has microsuction become the go-to technique now, what is the difference between microsuction and syringing and why does it matter to you?
What Is Ear Syringing?
Ear syringing uses water that is directed into the ear canal, to flush out wax that is building up in the canal. It usually does not require specialist equipment to see into the ear canals during the procedure, which is part of why it used to be so widely available. The issues that can come with not being able to see what is going on in the ears is that damage can occur to the ear structures such as the ear drums.
What Is Microsuction?
Microsuction uses an adjustable low pressure suction device alongside a wearable microscope such as a head loupe. This allows for the practitioner who is performing the procedure to always see down the ear canal. This makes the procedure safer as there is no guessing what is happening in the ear. Microsuction does not use any water at all and does not rely on putting pressure in the ear to remove any blockage.
Why Microsuction Is Considered Safer.
The real difference is being able to always see into the ear. When using syringing there is no way to see what is or has happened in the ear until the procedure is stopped. Something could happen to the ear canal or ear drum which could damage your ear or hearing. With microsuction it is easier to see if something is not right during the procedure and stop straight away.
This matters most for people who have a history with ear infections, perforations, or ear surgery. When adding water to these existing issues can cause more complications. Microsuction removes this risk completely because no water is being used.
Dry Ears vs Wet Ears
Using syringing for wax removal leaves the ear canals wet afterwards which some people can find uncomfortable and in some cases cause dizziness. Also, in rare cases the moisture that is left in the ear canals can lead to infections. Microsuction is a complete dry procedure. Nothing is added to the ear canal or left behind.
Comfort During the Procedure.
Most people find that microsuction is a more comfortable technique than syringing. There isn’t the pressure of water being pushed directly into the ears, and the sound is generally considered to be quieter than that of the whooshing noise of water going around the ear. For most people who have had syringing done in the past microsuction is often welcomed as a new alternative.
Why Fewer Places Offer Syringing Now
Safety concerns around adding water into the ears without being able to see what is happening in the ear, with this the guidance across the health sector has shifted away from syringing. This is a big reason why it has become harder to access wax removal through a GP surgery and why microsuction has become the gold standard for ear wax removal practitioners in the health sector.
Is Microsuction Suitable for Everyone?
Microsuction is considered suitable for the vast majority of people, including those who could not have syringing due to a history of perforations or infections. As with any procedure for the ears a full ear health check should be conducted firstly to ensure that treatment can go ahead with no concerns or issues.
It is always worth noting that whichever method is that you should not put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear. This means cotton buds and other tools that are sold for home use. These tools can push wax deeper into the ear canal and make the problems worse, regardless of which professional method is used to remove the wax.
Which Should I Choose?
If you do find you have access to both procedures then microsuction is generally considered the safest and more comfortable option. It has become the preferred choice of most practitioners nowadays. As a HCPC registered practitioner I offer microsuction across all of Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas, I use a portable machine, do full ear health checks for every visit, and can remove ear wax safely in the comfort of your own home.
If you’d like to find out more or book an appointment, get in touch.