FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

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I'm under 18 years old, can I have ear wax removal treatment?

Yes, we offer ear wax removal for those between 14 - 18 years old. it is perfect for those that have tried to remove ear wax with drops or other methods and it has failed.

Microsuction is safe and effective for children. If you want to find out more read our dedicated page here!

Anyone under the age of 16 years old will need to attend with a parent or guardian, or someone over the age of 18 years old.

How long does ear wax removal appointments take?

Our ear wax appointments last 30 minutes.

What is the cost of children's ear wax removal?

One ear wax removal = £45

Both ears wax removal = £65

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If no ear wax is found a £25 fee applies.

How much does ear wax removal cost?

Please see our prices here!

Can multiple people in the same household be seen in one visit?

Yes! If you, a family member, or a friend all need treatment, we can see everyone in the same visit and you can split the call out fee between you.

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How much is the call-out fee, and does it vary by location?

The call out fee is £30 for most 'BS' postcode addresses within Bristol. If you're outside our main area, the cost may be slightly different — we'll always confirm this with you before booking.

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What areas do you cover for home visits?

We cover Bristol, Bath, and the surrounding areas, with no restrictions on location type — private homes, care homes, residential homes, and community hospitals are all included (hospital visits require sign off from the ward manager first).

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How is a home visit different from a clinic appointment?

The treatment itself is identical — we bring the same portable microsuction equipment used in clinic. The main differences are convenience (we come to you) and a slightly longer appointment window (45 minutes to 1 hour).

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Which type of earplug is right for me?

It depends on what you need them for — we offer specific products for musicians, swimmers, motorcyclists, sleepers, security professionals, industrial workers, and more. Browse our dedicated pages:

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Can I reorder earplugs without having new moulds made?

Yes, provided you're ordering from the same supplier as your original order — email us at earplugs@bristolearhealth.co.uk and we'll place the order for you, applying any current discounts. Ordering from a different supplier will require new moulds.

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How long do custom earplugs last, and what's covered by warranty?

By looking after your earplugs as suggested, most should last up to 5 years. Most suppliers offer a 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects (not misuse), plus a 30-day fit guarantee so you can confirm your earplugs fit securely and comfortably once received.

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Do I need my ear wax removed before I can have moulds taken?

If you have a build up of wax, yes, accurate moulds need a clear ear canal. If needed, this can be done in the same appointment for an additional cost. Read more about the process on our Ear Wax Removal Page.

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How long does the fitting appointment take, and does it hurt?

Ear mould appointments take approximately 45 minutes and are not painful. The impression material sets quickly and comfortably in the ear canal, and your practitioner will talk you through the process as it happens.

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How are custom fit earplugs different from off-the-shelf ones?

Custom fit earplugs are moulded precisely to the shape of your own ear canal, giving a far more secure, comfortable seal than generic foam or silicone options. This means better noise reduction, less discomfort during extended wear, and a fit that won't work loose

Do I need to oil my ears before my appointment?

For most people, yes! Oiling with olive oil for 3–5 days beforehand softens the wax and makes removal easier and more comfortable. See our step-by-step guide for how to do this properly.

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What happens if you find something unusual during my check?

If we notice anything that needs further attention, such as signs of infection or a perforated eardrum, we'll provide you with a referral letter and digital images to share with your GP, audiologist, or ENT specialist.

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Is microsuction painful?

No - most patients find microsuction completely painless. You may hear a suction noise and feel some vibration, but there's no discomfort involved for the vast majority of people. If you have particularly sensitive ears, let your practitioner know beforehand so they can adjust their approach.

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How often should I have my ears checked?

See our blog post that give helpful advice and guidance on how often you might need treatment - Click here!

What's the difference between microsuction and ear syringing?

See our comprehensive blog post to found out the key differences - Click here!

How do I know if I need ear was removal?

Check out the common symptoms that normally needs ear wax removal - See Symptoms.

How long does home visit appointment last?

Our home visits last between 45 minutes - 1 hour. This gives us enough time to setup, assess and perform treatment, then run through any further advice needed after treatment.

How long is the warranty on custom fit earplugs?

Most of our suppliers offer 1 year warranty on all their products. This covers any manufacturing defects but not in relation to misuse of products.

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You will also be provided with a 30 day fit guarantee. This allows you to test that your earplugs fit securely and comfortably. This is valid from the date you receive your earplugs.

I would like to buy some more custom fit earplugs, how do I do this?

Please follow this link and you can submit a request - Custom Fit Earplug Request Form

Is it possible to get a refund for my earplugs if they don't work?

Unfortunately, our suppliers do not offer a refund for issues that relate to the product not working as well as expected. For example sleeping earplugs not reducing snoring noise as much as expected.

For all other earplugs, refund are very unlikely due to hygiene reasons.

However, we and the supplier will work with you to try and come up with an appropriate solution.

How do I pay for my treatment?

All our clinics accept card payments or cash. We can take payments from all major banks except American Express.

For home visits we have a portable care reader or we can invoice you following treatment.

If you have custom fit earplugs made you will be invoiced before and can make payment via BACS.

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Unfortunately we do not accept cheques or telephone payments.

Do you offer children appointments for earwax removal?

We're able to see anyone over the age of 14 years old. Unfortunately we cannot see anyone any younger.

Is there parking at the ear clinics?

Yes, all our ear clinics have parking available.

What happens if my new earplugs don't fit?

It is very unlikely that your earplugs won't fit due to the fact they're designed around the precise shape of your ear canals. However, sometimes this can happen and we will need to get them adjusted. We will need you to take photos of your earplugs in your ears and describe the symptoms you're having once they're in. We will let the company know and they will advise on best options.

Once my moulds are posted, how long before I receive my custom fit earplugs?

For most custom fit earplugs, please allow between 3-5 weeks for your order to be delivered. If you're purchasing any of our suppliers specialist products it can take longer, between 4-6 weeks. We will keep you updated throughout the whole process and let you know when your earplugs are on the way to you.

How long does it take to have ear moulds made?

Your appointment will last for approximately 45 minutes. This gives us enough time to perform earwax removal (if we need to) and then make your ear moulds. We will also have the chance to discuss the products you want to order and confirm any additional options you might like e.g. colour or lanyards.

Please note: only a small selection of samples are available from our suppliers.

How much does it cost to buy the custom fit earplugs?

The cost of the individual custom fit earplugs vary from product and supplier.

You can find all the prices, which includes a pair of ear moulds and delivery aswell, on the individual ear plugs pages. Just click on the type that you want and scroll down. find them here!

What companies do you work with?

We have chosen to work with three UK based companies, all supplying a range of different custom fit earplugs. These companies are;

How much does it cost to have ear moulds made?

To have ear moulds made for custom fit earplugs it costs £45.

If you have purchased from any of our suppliers the costs is £35 (proof of purchase required).

Please note this does not include the earplug product.

Who are custom fit earplugs for?

Custom fit earplugs provide superior noise reduction and comfort compared to generic options, making them ideal for anyone who needs consistent hearing protection or water blocking, from musicians and industrial workers to swimmers and light sleepers.

What is earwax removal via microsuction?

Microsuction is a professional ear wax removal technique where a specialised microscope and a medical suction device is use to carefully vacuum out earwax. Unlikely ear syringing where water is injected into the ear canal creating unnecessary risk of injury and hearing damage. Microsuction is safe, effective and painfree. It is the only treatment technique we use at Bristol Ear Health and is the national recommended method of earwax extraction.

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Do you offer home visits for ear wax removal?

Yes, we offer home visits for the Bristol, Bath and surrounding areas. There is no restrictions on the places we can visits. If you live at home or within a care / residential home we're more than happy to come and visit you. Our treatment costs are the same but we do charge an additional "call out fee" based on your home address.

Where do you provide clinic appointments and what days?

We currently run our clinics every week. Providing plenty of appointments. Our clinics locations are;

Kingswood Health Centre:

Monday & Thursday, 0900 - 1630.

Wednesday: 0900 - 1330.

‍Bedminster:

Friday, 0900 - 1700.

Our Bristol Ear Clinics

Kingswood Clinic

Bedminster Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

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Our Bristol Ear Clinics

Kingswood Clinic

Bedminster Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question?

Your Health, Our Dedicated Team Ready!

Book Appointment

Quick links

Services

Contact