How Much Does Ear Wax Removal Cost? - A Guide

Ear wax removal is an important part of ear health, but it’s no longer routinely available on the NHS.

If you’re not local to Suffolk, and can’t take advantage of Ear View’s competitive pricing, this guide will help you understand how much ear cleaning costs across different providers, what to expect, and how to spot safe, professional services.

Why is ear wax removal no longer free?

The NHS no longer routinely offers ear wax removal as a core general practice service, as it is considered a non-urgent and elective procedure. In May 2023, the government confirmed that earwax removal is no longer part of the standard national ‘General Medical Services Contract’ for GPs.

Routine wax removal is now seen as a preventive or comfort-based treatment, in which the NHS expects patients to manage privately.

The only exception to this rule is if the extraction of a patient’s earwax is deemed medically necessary for the patient (if an earwax blockage is preventing investigation or treatment) then the NHS may remove it.

To find out more about the changes to earwax removal services on the NHS, visit our dedicated blog on the subject here.

How much is ear wax removal to Suffolk locals?

At Earview, we offer professional earwax removal for £49.50. Our team uses safe, painless,  and effective techniques to ensure a thorough comfortable clean. We offer both Microsuction and Ear irrigation. We serve many locations across Suffolk, including Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Woodbridge, Alderton, Aldeburgh, Needham Market and Stowmarket. We also understand that you may not always be able to travel to one of our locations, so with this in mind we offer a home-visit service, allowing us to provide our award winning services in the comfort of your own home.

How much does ear wax removal cost elsewhere?

Not all earwax removal services are able to match our pricing. Prices will vary depending on the type of practitioner you choose, the location, which method, and the level of expertise of the removal specialist.

Typically, earwax removal clinics tend to be cheaper and private healthcare providers will charge significantly more.

Below we’ll go over what you can expect to pay if you choose an audiologist, an ENT specialist, a private healthcare provider, and a GP.

Audiologist / Earwax Removal Clinics prices

Prices for earwax removal by an audiologist can range between £40 and £90 a session, often with more being charged for home visits.

Audiologists offer a high-level of expertise and care, making them a reliable and safe choice.

Private ENT specialist prices

ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialists often charge between £150-£200 for initial consultations, and up to an extra £100 for wax removal.

Costs for ENT specialists are high due to hospital grade facilities and overheads.

Whilst experts in their field, this would not be a cost effective option for wax removal unless you are experiencing other symptoms of ear-related issues.

Private Healthcare Provider prices

Private GP clinics charge between £60 and £140 for treatments, the price depends on the method used (Microsuction is generally considerably more expensive than irrigation).

NHS GP prices

As mentioned, NHS GP surgeries no longer offer routine earwax removal for free on the NHS.

However, if you meet the requirements of a medical need for earwax removal, your GP can refer you to the ENT for free earwax removal.

Always check with your GP service if you meet the criteria for free earwax removal.

How much is too much for ear wax removal?

While prices between providers and the method used for earwax extraction vary, a quote exceeding £120 or more should be carefully considered.

Some high-end, or private, clinics may charge more because they include consultations fees, additional checks, treatments,or services, but this isn’t always the case.

It’s important to remember that a higher price does not necessarily mean a better service. Make sure when enquiring about services you always ask what is included in the price, if the price provided is for both ears, and for all associated costs/hidden fees before committing to a provider.

How much is too little for ear wax removal?

While it can be tempting to opt for the cheapest option for earwax removal, below average prices, (£30 or less) can be a red flag.

Very low prices for earwax removal services may indicate inexperienced practitioners, unsafe methods, or shortcuts that could compromise hygiene or your safety.

Some of the risks associated with cheap earwax removal methods/services include ear damage and ear infections as they often use unsafe methods like ear candling; of which there is no credible scientific evidence to suggest this method works. To ensure your ear health, and safety, always opt for a regulated, safe, and audiologist approved method for earwax removal, such as Microsuction.

In summary…

Ear wax removal costs can vary depending on the type of provider and the method used.

Be wary of below average prices for earwax removal, and always visit a qualified specialist.

At Ear View, we offer a safe, professional, and competitively priced microsuction service for both ears at just £49.50.

So, if you are local to Suffolk, or visiting, you don’t need to compromise on safety for affordability. Book your appointment or check availability on our booking page.