Why choose earwax removal with Bupa?
If earwax is blocking your ears, we can help clear it. Our earwax removal service is available for adults aged 18 and over.
Our health advisers are trained and accredited in ear cleaning, using a method called microsuction. We use a small suction device and camera so we can see inside your ear.
Here’s what you need to know before you book earwax removal with Bupa:
- It’s £60 for both ears, with no hidden costs. If there’s no wax, you won’t be charged.
- If we can’t treat you, we’ll refer you to a Bupa GP (at an extra cost) or your NHS GP.
- Available to everyone, whether or not you have insurance with us. Earwax removal isn’t covered by Bupa health insurance and is paid for separately.
- Easy to book online or by phone, at a time and place that suits you.
Getting earwax removed with Bupa
1. Book an appointment online or by phone
First things first, you’ll need an appointment. It’s easy to book online or by phone, and you can choose a Bupa health centre near you. We’ll ask a few quick questions to check the service is right for you.
To book by phone, call 0333 242 9465. We may record or monitor our calls. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm and bank holidays 8am to 1pm.
2. Use ear drops before your visit
To help soften the earwax and make removal easier, start using ear drops three to four times a day for three to five days before your appointment.
You can use:
- olive oil
- almond oil (avoid this if you have a nut allergy) sodium bicarbonate 5% drops
- sodium chloride 0.9% nasal drops (used as ear drops)
Please don’t use drops containing hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate your ears.
Using drops beforehand usually makes the appointment quicker and easier. If we can’t remove all the wax, your health adviser will explain what to do next.
3. Visit a Bupa health centre near you
The appointment itself will last around 30 minutes. Your health adviser will ask a few questions, explain what will happen and make sure you’re happy before starting.
They’ll then use a special camera to look inside your ear and remove any excess earwax. They may also take pictures, which can be useful for future comparisons.
If it’s your first time, the sound of the earwax removal device can take a little getting used to. Our health adviser will show you beforehand so you know what to expect.
Having something in your ear can feel odd, but it shouldn’t hurt.
If you can’t make your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible. If you don’t attend or cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice, we’ll need to charge a fee.
4. What happens next?
If we’re unable to remove the wax, your health adviser may ask you to use ear drops for a further five days and then book one follow‑up appointment. If removal still isn’t possible, they’ll talk you through what to do next.
If there’s no wax to remove you won’t be charged. We may suggest you see a GP, so they can check for any other possible causes of your symptoms.
Want to know more about earwax and earwax removal?
If you’d like to understand the causes, symptoms or treatment options in more detail, these guides can help.
Microsuction
Read more about microsuction and how it works.
Impacted earwax
Impacted earwax happens when there's a build-up of earwax in the ear.
What is earwax?
Earwax is a natural substance that helps protect and clean your ear canal.
Why choose Bupa?
Faster, more flexible access to trusted healthcare, without the need for insurance.
Skip the wait
Pay only for what you use
Expert care you can trust
Approved by:
Dr Samantha Wild
GP and Clinical Lead for Microsuction at Bupa
MBChB
MRCGP
DCH
DFSRH
DRCOG
GMC Reg: 4418427
Sam is an experienced General Practitioner with over 25 years in clinical practice. She is the Clinical Lead for Women’s Health at Bupa.
She also provides clinical oversight for Bupa’s earwax removal services, including microsuction, ensuring they are safe, effective and delivered to a high standard.
What’s next?
Book earwax removal online
Book an appointment at one of our health centres across the UK.
Call us
For more information, or to make a booking, please call us on 0330 127 7805
Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm. Saturday 8am to 4pm. We may record or monitor our calls.
