FAQs

  • Earwax (cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It protects the ears by trapping dust, debris, and microorganisms, and it naturally moves out of the ear over time. In some people, wax builds up and causes discomfort, hearing loss, or infections.

  • Microsuction is a safe and effective method of earwax removal that uses a gentle suction device while the clinician views your ear canal through a magnifying loupe or otoscope. It is quick, clean, and doesn’t require water.

  • An electronic ear irrigator is used; it involves a pressurised flow of warm water that removes the build-up of earwax. The irrigator has variable pressure control so that irrigation can be performed at the minimum pressure. A controlled flow of warm water will be squirted into your ear canal to flush out the earwax. Ear irrigation should be a painless procedure and is a useful alternative to microsuction depending on the anatomy of the individuals ear canal, and the nature and position of the earwax present.

  • Yes. South Coast Hearing is a mobile, audiologist-led service offering professional wax removal appointments in the comfort of your own home. We serve areas across West Sussex, Hampshire, and Surrey.

  • Common signs include hearing loss, a blocked or full sensation, discomfort, or ringing in the ears. If you’re unsure, we also offer a video otoscopy examination to assess your ear health before treatment.

  • Yes. When performed by a trained clinician, wax removal via microsuction, irrigation, or manual tools is safe. We always assess your ear and medical history first and use methods suited to your needs.

  • If no wax is found, you will only be charged for the consultation/otoscopy visit. We’ll advise on your ear health and whether follow-up or other care is needed. You can view our prices here.

  • If we are unable to remove the earwax successfully during your appointment, we will discuss the nature of this with you. Usually it will require a further consultation after applying more wax softening olive oil or other recommended method. This follow up appointment will be charged at £30.

  • We provide home visit services throughout West Sussex (Chichester, East Preston, Worthing), parts of Hampshire (Emsworth, Petersfield), and South Surrey (Haslemere, Godalming). You can view our full location list here.

  • Our standard fee is £80 for earwax removal. If no wax is present or treatment is not required, the consultation fee is £35. Cancellations within 24 hours are charged at £40. Our prices are listed here.

  • You can get in touch via our contact form, email, or phone. We’ll confirm your availability, answer any questions, and book your home visit appointment.

  • Otoscopy
    A visual examination of the ear canal and eardrum using a medical light and magnification. This allows the audiologist to check for wax, infection, inflammation, or structural changes that may be affecting hearing, and ensures it is safe and appropriate to proceed with further testing.

    Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA)
    A listening test that measures the quietest sounds you can hear across a range of pitches. It provides a detailed picture of hearing sensitivity in each ear and helps identify the degree and type of hearing loss, forming the foundation of any hearing assessment.

    Tympanometry
    A test of middle ear function that measures how the eardrum moves in response to gentle changes in air pressure. It helps identify issues such as fluid, pressure imbalance, or stiffness in the middle ear system that can affect hearing.

    Speech Testing
    An assessment of how clearly speech is heard and understood, particularly in everyday listening situations. This test provides insight into real world communication ability and can highlight difficulties that may not be fully explained by hearing thresholds alone.