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GPhC Registered | NHS Approved | 4.9⭐ Google Rating | Same Day Appointments | Distance Selling Pharmacy
Warm-water irrigation 30 minutes From £50 per ear No referral needed
Private · Sunderland

Earwax removal by irrigation.
Gentle warm-water treatment.

Warm-water ear irrigation for softer, accumulated wax. Clinician-assessed before treatment to confirm suitability. No referral required.

Book now What’s involved
About this treatment

Ear irrigation explained.

Ear irrigation uses a controlled stream of warm water to gently flush wax out of the ear canal. It is most effective when wax has been softened beforehand using olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops for 3–5 days. Our clinician examines your ears before proceeding to confirm the method is appropriate for you.

Irrigation is not suitable for patients with a perforated eardrum, previous ear surgery, active ear infection, or narrow ear canals. If you are unsure, book a general Earwax Removal appointment and our clinician will advise on the day.

Preparation helps. Use olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops twice daily for 3–5 days before your appointment. This softens the wax and significantly improves the outcome of irrigation.
Not sure if irrigation is right for you? Book our general Earwax Removal appointment — the clinician will examine your ears and select the most appropriate method.

30 minutes

Includes ear examination, irrigation, and aftercare advice.

Clinician-assessed

Ears checked before treatment to confirm suitability.

Immediate results

Most patients report improved hearing immediately after the procedure.

Aftercare included

Written and verbal aftercare advice at the end of your appointment.

What to expect

What happens at your appointment.

Prepare with softening drops (recommended)

Use olive oil or sodium bicarbonate ear drops twice daily for 3–5 days before your appointment. This makes irrigation significantly more effective for harder or impacted wax.

Ear examination

Your clinician examines both ears with an otoscope to confirm the eardrum is intact and irrigation is safe and appropriate. If microsuction is more suitable, we can offer that instead.

Warm-water irrigation

Tempered water is gently directed into the ear canal using a controlled irrigator. The procedure takes a few minutes per ear. A slight feeling of fullness or warmth is normal.

Post-treatment check and advice

Your clinician checks the ear canal is clear and provides brief aftercare guidance. You can return to normal activity immediately.

Book now

Book earwax irrigation.

Same-day slots usually available. Use softening drops beforehand for best results.

Opening hours

Mon–Fri 9am–5pm  ·  Sat & Sun 9am–5pm (private services only)

Call us

0191 503 4053

113 Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 7HG · GPhC Registered

Book — Earwax Removal (Irrigation)

Veritas Pharmacy · 113 Chester Road, Sunderland · Same-day

GPhC Registered
FAQs

Ear irrigation questions.

Is irrigation safe for everyone?
No. Irrigation is contraindicated if you have a perforated eardrum, have had recent ear surgery, have ear grommets, or have an active ear infection. Your clinician will check before proceeding. If irrigation is unsuitable, microsuction will be offered as an alternative.
Do I need to use drops before my appointment?
It is strongly recommended. Olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops used twice daily for 3–5 days soften the wax significantly, improving the effectiveness of irrigation. Without softening, some wax may not be removable in one session.
Is irrigation painful?
Irrigation should not be painful. The water is body temperature to avoid dizziness. You may feel a sensation of pressure or warmth. If you experience discomfort at any point, the procedure is stopped immediately. Most patients find it comfortable.
What if the wax isn’t fully cleared at the appointment?
In some cases, particularly with hard or impacted wax, a further course of softening drops and a follow-up appointment may be needed. This is uncommon when drops have been used in advance. Your clinician will advise if this applies to you.
How much does ear irrigation cost?
From £50 per ear. Both ears can be treated in the same appointment. The price covers your full appointment — ear examination, irrigation, and aftercare advice. No hidden charges. Price confirmed at booking.
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If your ear symptoms suggest infection rather than blockage, Pharmacy First covers acute otitis media — free of charge.

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Private Pharmacist

For ongoing hearing issues, tinnitus, or balance problems after wax removal, a same-day pharmacist consultation is advisable.

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