🩺 Affordable Private Healthcare

Ear Syringing

Price
£100

Appointment

30 minutes

Professional

Doctor

Doctor examining patient’s ear
4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

at a glance

pound iconPrice: £100

Appointment:

Professional: Doctor

4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

Ear Wax Removal

Ear syringing (also called ear irrigation) is a safe method used to remove excess earwax (cerumen) from the ear canal.

Over time, earwax can build up and lead to discomfort, impaired hearing, and even infections.

Ear syringing helps alleviate these issues by gently flushing out the wax, clearing any plugs or blockages, and restoring clear hearing.

Doctor considering blood test options

Causes Of Wax Buildup

Excessive ear wax, or cerumen buildup, can result from several factors:

  • Dry Skin: People with dry skin may produce drier, flakier ear wax, which can accumulate more easily.
  • Ageing: As people age, ear wax can become drier and harder, making it more likely to build up in the ear canal.
  • Infections: Ear infections or inflammation can lead to an increase in wax production as the body responds to the irritation.
  • Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can affect the ear canal, leading to increased wax production or buildup.
  • Incorrect Cleaning: Using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears can push wax deeper into the canal, causing blockages.
  • Overproduction: Some people naturally produce more ear wax than others. This can be due to genetics or overactive ceruminous glands.
  • Use of Earplugs or Hearing Aids: Regular use of earplugs or hearing aids can push ear wax further into the ear canal, leading to buildup.
  • Ear Canal Shape: The shape and size of your ear canal can affect wax buildup. For instance, a narrow or unusually shaped ear canal can trap wax.

Ear Syringing Safety

Ear syringing is generally safe when performed by a trained professional. We take all necessary precautions to ensure the procedure is comfortable and effective.

However, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain ear conditions, such as perforated eardrums or ear infections. Our specialists will assess your ear health to ensure the procedure is right for you.

Remember, seeing a private GP at City Walk-in Clinic offers many benefits, including same-day appointments (in-person or virtual) across two Central London locations. You can also choose your preferred GP for consistent care, and prescriptions from virtual visits are sent directly to your local pharmacy.

We also provide fast specialist referrals and ensure complete privacy (with no hidden fees) and strict confidentiality.

Woman doctor smiling
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Do You Need Ear Syringing?

You may need ear syringing if you experience any of the following:

  • Earache: Wax buildup can lead to discomfort and pain in the ear.
  • Tinnitus: Ringing sounds in the ear can sometimes be attributed to impacted earwax.
  • Itching Or Fullness: A feeling of fullness or itchiness in the ear canal can be a sign of wax buildup.
  • Hearing Loss: A buildup of earwax can obstruct sound waves from reaching the eardrum, resulting in diminished hearing.

Statistics​

People Each Year Have Problems With Earwax In The UK
0 Mill
Of The UK Population Have A Hearing Loss Greater Than 25dB
0 %
19% of over 65s with cognitive issues have earwax impaction
0 %
of All Doctors in the UK are GPs
0 Mill

Alternative Wax Removal Methods

If ear syringing is not suitable for you, we also offer:

  • Ear Irrigation: This technique involves gently flushing the ear canal with warm water to dislodge and remove excess wax and avoid any irritation
  • Microsuction: This gentle technique employs a suction device to effectively remove earwax, and is suitable for both soft and hardened wax
Blood sample tube for testing

How To Book A Private GP Appointment?

book online or call us

Use our online booking engine or book your appointment by giving us a call.

Choose your appointment

On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

meet with our experts

You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.

The Procedure

preparing for appointment

Pre-Appointment

Our London-based doctors will assess your hearing and advise whether ear syringing would be beneficial for you. Use over-the-counter ear drops as directed by your provider in the days leading up to your appointment to soften the earwax. We typically recommend using these drops for 5 days prior to the procedure.

during the appointment

Appointment

You will be asked to sit or lie down with your head tilted to the side to give easy access to your ear. The provider will use a syringe to gently flush warm water into your ear canal to clear out the earwax. The process is usually quick and may be a bit uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. A special gown will be provided for your protection, and the provider will carefully remove the wax from your ears.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

Keep your ears dry for at least 24 hours, and avoid getting water in them while showering or swimming. If recommended by your provider, use earplugs to shield your ears from water and dust. Be attentive to any persistent symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or changes in hearing.

Why Choose Walk In Clinic For
Your Private GP?

Incorporated
in 1998

Experienced doctors & a professional team.

Registration
not needed

Up-to-date with the latest treatments & testing.

Strictly
confidential

Your medical records are kept private at all times.

Affordable private
health care

Transparent fee structure with no hidden charges.

testimonials​

All reviews
4.8
Google
Google
4.8
Trustindex
Trustindex
5.0
Provenexpert
Provenexpert
5.0
Yell
Yell
5.0
ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 54.8451 reviews
4.8Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5
Excellent451 reviews
ExcellentGoogle star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 54.8443 reviews
4.8Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Excellent443 reviews
ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 55.01 reviews
5.0Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5
Excellent1 reviews
ExcellentProvenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 55.01 reviews
5.0Provenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 5
Excellent1 reviews
ExcellentYell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 55.06 reviews
5.0Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5
Excellent6 reviews
Posted on Google Google
Jooyoung Nam profile picture
Jooyoung Nam
10 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a very positive experience at this clinic for my blood test and the follow-up with the GP. I particularly appreciated the care and attention throughout the process, including the follow-up after my results. Thank you to the team for making the experience so reassuring. I would happily recommend this clinic.
Posted on Google Google
Lucy Cropper profile picture
Lucy Cropper
31 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a fantastic experience at the Harley Street clinic. Staff were very welcoming and professional and booked my second blood test here also.
Posted on Google Google
Truman Packard profile picture
Truman Packard
19 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The service was efficient, personable and very complete. The doctor who saw me was very good, patient and sensitive. I’ll be going back.
Posted on Google Google
Sue Heald profile picture
Sue Heald
11 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As an international visitor, I was very grateful for the prompt attention to my request for an appointment. Dr Ali was respectful and empathetic in regard to my condition and suggested further treatment, which I was able to organise for the next day. Both offices I attended treated me appropriately and I would recommend Harley Street Health Walk-in Clinics to anyone visiting London who requires medical attention.
Posted on Trustindex Trustindex
Isabella Johnson profile picture
Isabella Johnson
3 August 2026
Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
Highly recommend City Walk-In Clinic Really pleased with my experience at City Walk-In Clinic. I booked a female hormone test because I wanted some answers about a few symptoms I'd been having, and the whole process was straightforward. The staff were welcoming, friendly and didn't make me feel rushed at all. The blood test was quick, and they explained everything clearly before taking the sample. My results came back sooner than I expected, and it was reassuring to have everything presented in a way that was easy to understand. I'd definitely use the clinic again and would recommend it to anyone looking for a private female hormone test. Professional service, lovely staff and an all round positive experience.
Posted on Google Google
Anabella Styles profile picture
Anabella Styles
9 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a private gp appointment yesterday as my feet have been swelling every day over the past few days. So I booked an appointment with Dr Heather. Dr Heather explained the possible causes of the swelling, including the heat that we are currently experiencing in London. Recommended further investigation if the swelling persists, to identify the underlying issue rather than just making assumptions.
Posted on Google Google
Mary Anne profile picture
Mary Anne
3 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have used City Walk In Clinic as my go to place for routine blood tests. My recent full health check gave my doctor some clues that i may be approaching my menopause era. So my doctor has recommended that i do some tests to find out if indeed i am entering perimenopause, as the symptoms are there. Will be having my tests in the next few weeks. So glad i had a full health check, because all these symptoms were driving me crazy.
Posted on Google Google
Dona P profile picture
Dona P
24 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Really good service throughout. Reception staff were welcoming and the blood test was efficient and quick. Highly recommended as blood tests can be booked on the day with results being sent very quickly.
Posted on Google Google
A B profile picture
A B
23 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great location for blood tests if you want very fast results! I got my results the same day, highly recommend!
Posted on Google Google
Grace Vizcaino profile picture
Grace Vizcaino
2 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very good service at a very reasonable cost. Same day results, I do recommend this clinic and would certainly be using it again.
Posted on Google Google
Shona McGovern profile picture
Shona McGovern
16 May 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I attended The Harley Street Walk/in centre in the City recently. I was able to book my appointment the day before for a blood test at a time that suited me. The booking process was straightforward. The doctor that conducted the venous draw was efficient and very pleasant. I have never had such a painless venous draw and I have had many! My appointment was at 5pm and I had my results before 8 am the following day. I will be very happy to book my tests here in the future. Thank you.
Posted on Google Google
Monju Zaman profile picture
Monju Zaman
19 April 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very easy to arrange the appointment with plenty of immediate availability. Very convenient location. Friendly medical associate who took my blood and results arrived very promptly, ie early the next day. Seamless experience.
Posted on Google Google
Nat N profile picture
Nat N
17 April 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Attentive, welcoming and professional staff in a great area which is easy to get to! I always feel like I'm in good hands
Posted on Google Google
Abdalla Mohamud Mohamed profile picture
Abdalla Mohamud Mohamed
18 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a very good experience at the clinic. The staff were punctual friendly and professional. I had a blood test done and received the results quickly on the same day. I would definitely recommend visiting them.
Posted on Google Google
Ena Quinn profile picture
Ena Quinn
9 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Speedy and efficient place for quick bloods. Results have been same day for me. Very friendly staff too which is always a bonus
Posted on Google Google
Arthur Attwell profile picture
Arthur Attwell
22 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great experience. I was visiting London from abroad and I needed a blood test before travelling onward. I arrived without an appointment and was done in 20 minutes. The staff were all lovely. I received my test results by email the next morning.
Posted on Google Google
Omar profile picture
Omar
19 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Really professional and friendly. They always provide their results quickly!
Posted on Google Google
Antigoni S. profile picture
Antigoni S.
17 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very good experience — all the staff were very polite, I was assisted immediately, and the results were available the same day. Thank you very much Private City Clinic!
Posted on Google Google
Sheila Daley profile picture
Sheila Daley
31 December 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I wanted a cholesterol check up and chose this clinic because it seemed to offer a competitive price for a detailed report. And so it turned out to be. Received a prompt and professional service at a price that was significantly less than other nearby providers in central London. I have now used it twice and would definitely recommend.
Posted on Yell Yell
JenniferP-344 profile picture
JenniferP-344
18 February 2025
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I appreciated the discreet and professional care during my sexual health test. The clinic made me feel safe and respected, and the results were delivered quickly and privately. Definitely recommend if you value confidentiality.
Posted on Yell Yell
MichelleD-11 profile picture
MichelleD-11
21 February 2024
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I can't express enough how pleased I am with the Private Walk-in Clinic. As someone who values privacy and comfort, this clinic hits all the marks. The waiting areas are designed for relaxation, and the staff ensures confidentiality at every step.
Posted on Provenexpert Provenexpert
Anonymously profile picture
Anonymously
4 December 2023
Provenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Provenexpert.
The Walk-In Clinic in central London exceeded my expectations in every way. Their attention to detail and commitment to tailored care for their patients truly sets them apart. The availability of evening appointments until 6:30 pm was a game-changer for someone like me juggling multiple commitments.
Posted on Yell Yell
LunaW23 profile picture
LunaW23
14 May 2021
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
They are so fast. One call and I am there in a few hours, always the same team and so polite and nice.
Posted on Yell Yell
JuliaSf profile picture
JuliaSf
14 October 2020
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I hope these guys open up again soon because I really cannot stand anyone else around here. they were perfect for me for tests and consultations whenever I needed them
Posted on Yell Yell
Emily-M profile picture
Emily-M
2 August 2019
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
i have used these guys many times in the last 6 years and its always very fast and professional. most tests are done in 24hours and they call you to explain the results. recommended if you gp (like mine) gives you an appointment in 4 weeks time.

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Test prices do not include a consultation.

Ear Syringing

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fAQ

Why do we have ear wax?
It is normal and healthy to have ear wax. It is a coating which protects the ear from damage and infection.
Can I syringe my ears myself?
Ear syringing should always be done by a doctor or healthcare professional. It should be avoided if you have recently had an ear infection, or if you have not first softened your ear wax.
What are the side effects of ear syringing?
Some temporary side effects (usually subsiding in less than a day) of ear syringing are dizziness, slight discomfort in the ear canal, and ringing in the ears.
Is ear syringing safe?
When performed by a trained healthcare professional, like our medical professionals, ear syringing is generally safe. However, it should never be done at home, as incorrect technique or water pressure can cause injury to the ear. Please bear that in mind, no matter what you read online.
Does ear syringing hurt?
Your ear syringing procedure should never be painful. However, having said that, it is important to note that you may feel a mild tickling, fullness, or pressure as the water flushes the wax out. If you experience pain, you should inform us immediately.
Are there any side effects or risks?
Side effects are rare, but some people may experience temporary dizziness, mild discomfort, or ringing in the ears. Very rarely, there can be infection, ear canal irritation, or eardrum injury.

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