If you are experiencing pressure, muffled hearing or itchy ears, excess ear wax may be the cause. At Bishopdale Hearing, we provide professional ear wax removal using safe and gentle microsuction techniques. We can also assess and treat some outer ear infections during your appointment.
Appointments are 20 minutes and include a middle ear health check (tympanometry) to ensure there are no underlying concerns such as fluid or eustachian tube issues.
Cost:
Adult $60 ($50 GC)
Child under 10yrs $80
Please note: If you have comprehensive Southern Cross Health Insurance, please call us to book — we can check your policy in the Southern Cross portal.
Clinic Location: Bishopdale, Christchurch
What is microsuction ear wax removal?
Microsuction is a safe and effective method of ear wax removal that uses gentle suction to carefully clear the ear canal. Unlike traditional ear syringing, it does not involve flushing the ear with water. Instead, a small suction device is used under direct visual guidance to remove wax precisely and comfortably.
At Bishopdale Hearing, microsuction is performed by Emma, our dedicated Ear Nurse and Provisional Audiometrist, as well as Audiologists Bradi and Corey, who are also qualified and highly experienced with microsuction.
Emma takes the time to explain the process, ensure you feel comfortable and carefully remove any blockage using specialist equipment.
Because the procedure is carried out in a clinical setting with clear visual guidance, it is considered one of the safest methods of ear wax removal.
Many patients notice immediate relief from pressure, muffled hearing or discomfort once the wax has been removed.
What are the symptoms of earwax build-up?
A small amount of ear wax is normal and healthy. However, when wax builds up or becomes impacted, it can begin to cause noticeable symptoms.
You may benefit from professional ear wax removal if you are experiencing:
- A feeling of blockage or fullness in one or both ears
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Discomfort or pressure
- Hearing aids not working as clearly as usual
- A history of recurring wax build-up
Sometimes symptoms can appear suddenly, particularly if wax shifts or becomes compacted. If your hearing feels different or your ears feel blocked, a professional assessment can quickly determine whether wax is the cause.
Do I need wax removal?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, ear wax may be contributing to the problem. However, it can sometimes be difficult to tell whether changes in hearing are caused by wax or another underlying issue. If there is little or no wax present, we may recommend a hearing assessment.
At Bishopdale Hearing, Emma will first examine your ears using specialist equipment to determine whether wax build-up is present. If wax is the cause, it can usually be removed safely and comfortably during the same appointment.
If there is little or no wax present, we will explain what we see and advise you on the most appropriate next steps. Our goal is always to provide clear answers and ensure you receive the right care for your situation.
If your ears feel blocked or your hearing has changed, booking an appointment is the simplest way to get clarity and relief.
Frequently asked questions
Microsuction should not be painful and is considered one of the safest methods of ear wax removal.
You may hear some noise from the suction device, but the procedure is usually quick and comfortable. Emma will explain each step and ensure you feel at ease throughout your appointment.
Our earwax removal appointments are 20 minutes. In many cases, relief from blocked ears is immediate once the wax has been removed.
We recommend using a few drops of olive oil or natural cooking oil in the affected ear the night before your appointment. This can help soften the wax and make removal more comfortable. We do not usually recommend pharmacy ear drops, as they can sometimes worsen blockage.
Ear wax removal at our Bishopdale clinic is $60 for adults ($50 Gold Card) and $80 for children under 10 years. If you have comprehensive Southern Cross Health Insurance, please contact us and we can check your eligibility.
Yes – we see children aged 4 and above. We take a calm and gentle approach, and will always advise whether treatment is suitable based on the child’s age and comfort level.
If your child is slightly younger than 4, get in touch – we’re happy to discuss whether an appointment is likely to work for them.
Emma is particularly loved by our younger patients – check out her Google reviews to see what parents have to say.
Bishopdale Hearing is located at Shop 33, Bishopdale Court, Bishopdale Village Mall, Christchurch 8053. Get directions.
We welcome patients from across Christchurch, Canterbury and as far as the West Coast.
Ear wax removal is performed by our dedicated Ear Nurse Emma, as well as Audiologists Bradi and Corey, who are also qualified and highly experienced with microsuction.
If you are planning to claim through Southern Cross Health Insurance, please call us to book rather than booking online – insurance claims require an Audiologist appointment, and we can confirm your cover in the Southern Cross portal at the time of booking.
Both methods remove ear wax, but they work quite differently. Ear syringing flushes the ear canal with water, which can sometimes cause discomfort or push wax deeper. Microsuction uses gentle suction under direct visual guidance — no water, no flushing. It’s considered the safer and more precise method, and is the technique used at Bishopdale Hearing.