Frequently Asked Questions

Is Microsuction covered by private insurance?

Most health insurance companies only cover Audiology consultations and Hearing Aid devices. They do not pay towards any other Audiology services, therefore aural Microsuction is not covered. The reason is as a not-for-profit fund most health insurance companies are limited to what they can cover by their fund rules. If you have any further queries, please contact the Custom Service Centre of your private health fund. You can receive a health insurance rebate for our services if you are insured by St.Lukes Health

How much does Microsuction cost?

Adults: $110, Seniors 65 and over: $99, Students: $93.50, Children under 16: $70. Booking are essential. Online payment, credit card and contactless payment only at this time. All prices include GST. If there is no wax present in ears, a consultation fee of $55 apply. There is no charge if you need to return for a second appointment following softening. Microsuction appointments at earLAB are not covered by Medicare.

Should I use ear candles?

Ear candles are more dangerous than they look. They can cause burns to your face, hair, scalp, ear canal and eardrum. You’ll also introduce traces of candle wax into the ear canal, and can risk perforating your eardrum. Ultimately, research has shown that ear candles don’t work – so avoid them.

Should I clean my ears with cotton buds?

In short, no. Cotton buds are most likely to simply push the wax further in. Over time, this can create severe build-up of cerumen, damage the soft tissues in your ear canal and even puncture the eardrum. So as the saying goes, never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear!

Does the cost for microsuction cover clearing both ears?

The Microsuction ear wax removal appointment cost is fixed and covers inspection and ear wax removal from all impacted ears whether one or both ears.

Who will carry out the procedure?

Our qualified clinicians have undergone further training and certification to enable them to provide the Microsuction service and good ear impressions which are essential to creating CIEMs with a good fit. They ensures our clients receive professional advice and enjoy a safe and effective practice.

What should I do before my microsuction appointment?

We advice not to use any over-the-counter eardrops e.g. Waxol, Cerumol, Audiclean Ear Wax Remover, Ear Clear ear drops, Clean Ears spray, Aquaear ear drops, Audisol earwax remover etc...Usually microsuction does not need pre-treatment, if you feel your ears are severely blocked you may use some olive oil for up to two days before the appointment to soften any wax build-up this can make the procedure faster and more comfortable.

Can babies and children have microsuction?

abies and children will need to be able to keep their head still during the procedure, so microsuction is safe for all ages. We recommend that children should be: at least >6month old able to lie still on the chair for 15 minutes or so with the assistance of a parent Young children often find microsuction more comfortable than ear irrigation or syringing. The procedure can be noisy when using the suction machine, but we can remove ear wax using other instruments and so make the procedure more acceptable if required.

How often will I need microsuction?

Everyone produces ear wax at a different rate. If you’re prone to build-up, you’ll need microsuction more frequently. In general, it’s good to have a regular check-up every 6 to 12 months for good ear wax management and to prevent any issues. We can place you on our recall list as a reminder to have your ears cleaned every 6, 9 or 12 months.

How long will my appointment take?

The length of your treatment will depend on the degree of blockage, so please allow for up to 20 minutes in your schedule. Usually you can expect amazing results within half that time.

Is microsuction safe?

Yes. Medical specialists around the world regard aural microsuction as the safest, most effective choice for cleaning ears (also known as ‘dewaxing’). Usually the procedure is very quick, easy and gives you instant relief. At our ear wax removal clinic in Melbourne we have performed this proceedure countless times with great results. Microsuction can be used even if the eardrum has been previously perforated. It is useful in removing excessive discharge caused by ear infection and it can also remove foreign bodies.

Why choose microsuction over other methods?

Most GPs will treat a blocked ear with an ear syringe, which is a pressurised device that flushes out the ear with water. This isn’t always effective, and can lead to infection or damage to the eardrum. Microsuction, by contrast, is gentle, dry, precise and safe – the gold standard for ear wax removal.

Custom sleeves (SNR or noise reduction)

The custom sleeves are not tested as they are more of a comfort product. The custom sleeves are comparable to solid mould as they are unfiltered and will reduce the sound by approx 30 -33 dB.

Does the cost of a second remake of ear impressions still be covered under the original invoice?

There is no guarantee/ warranty on defects on a discounted rate if a second booking was required, we charge a fair price of for both our clinician's time and materials used.

Who will carry out the procedure?

How long will my appointment take?

The length of your treatment will depend on the degree of blockage, so please allow for up to 20 minutes in your schedule. Usually you can expect amazing results within half that time.

How long does the custom earplug process take?

Your initial consultation will be 20 minutes. Following that, your finished ear plugs will be available within a couple of weeks, with a follow up consultation in which we’ll demonstrate how to fit them and ensure they’re comfortable. (Of course, if you’re happy with self-fitting they can be posted directly to you. An express postage fee of $14.85 is applicable, Australia-wide.)

What is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and when am I at risk?

Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when sensitive structures in the inner ear are damaged by brief or extended periods of exposure to loud sounds. NIHL usually happens with noise levels greater than 85decibels (dBs). Damage happens faster as noise levels increase above this threshold.

What are the benefits of custom moulded earplugs for sleep?

Unlike off-the-shelf foam options, these earplugs are made for comfort – they’re soft, lightweight and fit your ear canal perfectly. That means you can comfortably lie on your side, without irritation. They also won’t fall out of your ear while you sleep – a major complaint for those who use foam earplugs.

Can you tell me the noise reduction rating (NRR) for the SleepSound?

The SleepSound attenuated about 30dB. It is a solid earplug and it attenuates about as much as a very good fitting foam plug.

Who should use sleep plugs?

Anyone who needs a quieter sleep environment. Think shift-workers, people with a partner who snores, and those dealing with barking dogs or traffic noise.

Can earplugs help with surfer's ear?

They can. Surfer’s ear, also known as extoses, are bony growths in the outer ear triggered by repeated exposure to cold water. By protecting your ear canal, earplugs can prevent them from forming, or getting worse.

Can earplugs prevent swimmer's ear?

Absolutely. Swimmer’s ear happens when water is trapped in your ear canal, so the best solution is to avoid water entering your ear in the first place.

Can children use swimming earplugs?

Yes – custom plugs can be made to fit any size ear. It’s especially important for children who’ve had grommets fitted to use swim plugs.

What are the best swimming earplugs for me?

It depends on your needs and budget. Many casual swimmers who don’t have ear issues can make do with off-the-shelf options. However, if you’re prone to ear infections like swimmer’s ear, have grommets (also known as ear tubes) or an eardrum perforation, you’ll need custom moulded plugs that create a perfect watertight seal and keep your ear canal dry.

Do I need to wear swim plugs?

Yes, if you participate in water sports and are prone to ear issues. They can make all the difference between an enjoyable hobby and one that leads to pain, hearing problems and worse.

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