By Penelope Woods, MAudSt, MAudA (CCP), BMus, is a Masters Qualified Independent Audiologist and Hearing Health Advocate serving the Redlands Community.
Hearing is something most of us don’t give a second thought to until we can’t hear properly.
A blocked ear can be surprisingly disorienting. Voices sound muffled, balance can feel off, and there’s an immediate and strong desire to get it fixed.
For many people, the first step is a visit to their GP. Syringing has long been used in general practice to relieve earwax build-up, and in some cases, it works well.
But as we’ve learned more, it has become clear that syringing isn’t suitable for everyone. This is particularly true for older adults or those with a history of ear conditions.
That’s why, at A Better Ear, we offer microsuction: a safer, more modern alternative, also practised by ENTs, that many patients and doctors now prefer.
I recently met a gentleman in his 70s who had been syringed twice, with limited success. The nurse had followed all the proper steps. Even so, the wax was stubborn, and the experience left him not wanting to go through it again.
When he came to our clinic at Hub68 in Ormiston, we used microsuction. This precise method allows us to view the ear canal in real time and safely remove wax without introducing infection-encouraging moisture or potentially damaging pressure on the eardrum.
Within minutes, he was feeling relief, and his hearing was clearer. He left feeling not only better, but more confident about managing his earwax in the future.
That’s because we also take the time to explain what’s causing the build-up.
It could be due to ear canal anatomy, cotton bud use, or an increase in wax production common with ageing.
Importantly, we don’t just treat the problem – we help patients understand how to reduce the chance of it recurring.
That’s the real value of what we do. Microsuction earwax removal complements our holistic model of person-centred audiological care.
We work in partnership with many individuals, families and local GPs and deeply value those relationships. No doctor’s referral is needed, and we have appointments available most days.
Hearing care is never just about ears. It is about connection, confidence, and quality of life. When treatment is safe, effective, and easy to access, people are more likely to seek help early, before small problems become bigger ones.
At A Better Ear in Ormiston, we offer professional microsuction in a calm, local setting, with empathy, evidence and respect at the core of what we do. We’ll even clean and check your hearing aids during your appointment at no cost.
Call us today.
