Ear Wax Removal
Neils Pharmacy Ear Wax Removal Service
Microsuction, Irrigation & Syringing in Prescot, Merseyside
At Neils Pharmacy, we provide professional ear wax removal services in Prescot, Merseyside, supporting patients across Knowsley, Huyton, Liverpool, St Helens, Kirkby, and surrounding areas.
๐ Blocked ears caused by excess wax can affect hearing, balance, and comfort. Our trained clinicians offer safe, professional ear wax removal using modern, clinically approved techniques to help you hear clearly and feel comfortable again.
What Is Ear Wax Removal?
Ear wax (also known as cerumen) is a natural substance that helps protect the ear canal. According to the NHS, ear wax usually falls out on its own, but sometimes it can build up and become impacted.
You can read more about ear wax and common symptoms on the NHS website:
๐
Earwax build-up โ NHS
You may experience:
- ๐ Muffled or reduced hearing
- ๐ A feeling of fullness or blockage
- ๐ Itchiness or discomfort
- ๐ Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
- โ๏ธ Occasional imbalance
If wax build-up is persistent and affects your daily life, professional removal can help restore comfort and hearing.
Why Choose Neils Pharmacy for Ear Wax Removal?
Your care is delivered by trained practitioners in a private consultation room, with a focus on safe, effective treatment and patient comfort.
- ๐ No GP referral needed โ book directly
- ๐ฉบ Professional ear assessment before treatment
- ๐จ Choice of microsuction and irrigation techniques
- ๐ Comfortable and private clinical environment
With reduced access to GP-based ear wax removal in many areas, community pharmacies now provide a trusted and accessible alternative for professional ear care.
How the Service Works
๐ฉบ Step 1: Professional Ear Assessment
Your appointment begins with a thorough examination of your ear canal using specialist equipment to assess:
- ๐ The amount and consistency of ear wax
- ๐งช Whether removal is safe and appropriate
- โ ๏ธ Any signs of infection or other concerns
๐จ Step 2: Wax Removal Techniques
We use clinically approved methods to gently and safely remove excess wax:
Microsuction
- ๐ฌ Modern and precise technique
- ๐จ Gentle medical-grade suction
- ๐ง No water required
- ๐ Suitable when irrigation is not appropriate
Irrigation & Syringing
- ๐ฟ Controlled flushing with warm water or saline
- ๐ Pain-free when wax is softened
- โ๏ธ Effective for softer wax blockages
๐ซ We recommend using olive oil ear drops for around one week before your appointment to soften wax and improve removal success.
๐ซ Avoid cotton buds or inserting objects into your ears, as these can push wax deeper and cause injury.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
- ๐ฉบ Initial consultation and ear examination
- โฑ๏ธ Removal procedure (typically 15โ30 minutes)
- ๐ง Immediate improvement for many patients
- ๐ Personalised ear care and aftercare advice
- ๐ค Referral guidance if further medical review is needed
Many people notice improved hearing and comfort immediately following treatment.
Who Is This Service For?
This service may be suitable for adults experiencing:
- ๐ Ear blockage caused by wax
- ๐ Reduced or muffled hearing
- ๐ Itchiness or ear discomfort
- ๐ Ringing or pressure in the ears
Each patient is assessed before treatment to ensure it is safe and appropriate.
Could It Be an Ear Infection?
Some ear symptoms, such as pain, pressure, or hearing changes, may be caused by an ear infection rather than wax build-up.
๐ Please note: the NHS Pharmacy First ear infection (acute otitis media) service is commissioned for children and young people aged 1 to 17 years only. It is not available for adults.
Adults with ear pain or suspected ear infection should contact their GP, NHS 111, or another appropriate NHS service for assessment.
๐ NHS Pharmacy First โ Ear Infection (Acute Otitis Media)
Pricing & Costs
Consultation Fee
๐ท ยฃ20 consultation fee โ includes initial ear assessment and discussion of treatment options.
Wax Removal
๐ท ยฃ40 wax removal fee (one or both ears)
โฑ๏ธ Typical appointment time: up to 30 minutes
If wax removal is not required following assessment, no removal charge will be applied.
โน๏ธ If wax is particularly stubborn or additional procedures are required, this will be explained to you in advance (this is uncommon).
Infection or Other Findings
๐ฆ If infection or other clinical concerns are identified, our pharmacist prescriber may be able to provide treatment. Any associated costs will be discussed at the time.
How Do I Book?
You can book your ear wax removal appointment:
- ๐ Online via our website booking system
- ๐ By calling 0151 430 8376
Booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred appointment time.
Ear Health & Preventative Advice
๐ก๏ธ Ear wax helps protect your ears, but excessive build-up can cause problems.
- ๐ซ Do not use cotton buds or insert objects into your ears
- ๐ซ Use olive oil or pharmacy-recommended wax softeners if advised
- โณ Seek professional help if symptoms persist after self-care
Why Ear Wax Removal Matters
With many GP practices no longer offering routine ear wax removal, professional services provided by trained clinicians reduce the risks associated with DIY methods and can resolve symptoms safely and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ear wax removal?
Ear wax removal is a professional service to safely clear excess or impacted wax that can cause hearing problems, discomfort, or ringing. It is performed using techniques such as microsuction or irrigation.
Is ear wax removal painful?
Most people find the procedure comfortable and pain-free. Mild pressure or tickling sensations may occur.
How long does an appointment take?
Appointments usually last between 15 and 30 minutes, including assessment, treatment, and aftercare advice.
Is ear wax removal safe?
Yes. When carried out by trained professionals using appropriate equipment, ear wax removal is considered safe. Minor irritation is rare.
The Pharmacy First service builds on the NHS Community Pharmacist Consultation Service which has run since October 2019. The consultation service enables patients to be referred into community pharmacy for a minor illness or an urgent repeat medicine supply.