Our clinic
Kia ora, we are a nurse-led clinic specialized in ear wax removal via microsuction. This is a gentle and safe approach to effectively remove ear wax.
We understand that blocked ears can affect your comfort and daily life. At Papanui Ear Care, we provide friendly, personalised care in a welcoming environment, helping you achieve clearer hearing and better ear health.
We use digital otoscopy to capture images of your ear canal and eardrum, helping you better understand your ear health.
We offer after-hours appointments and 24 hours urgent care for removal of foreign body in ear (Call 029 0344 7477).
Services
Services by our Ear Nurse
Ear Wax Removal
We use gentle microsuction to remove excessive ear wax using direct vision using specialised head-worn binocular magnification.
Ear Health Assessment
We provide ear assessment and identify any signs of infections like otitis external and otitis media. We take a photo with a digital otoscope and write a referral to your GP or NP at no additional cost.
Removal of Foreign Body
Foreign body can be removed in our clinic if its safe to do so.
Education on Ear Care & Ear Health
All clients will be provided information on best practice to maintain their ear health.
FAQs
What is ear microsuction?
Ear microsuction is a safe and effective method of ear wax removal that uses gentle suction to remove wax from the ear canal. The procedure is performed under direct vision using specialised head-worn binocular magnification, allowing for precise and controlled treatment.
Ear microsuction is also the preferred method used by many ENT specialists for removing ear wax. It is not painful and may feel a little ticklish due to the gentle suction.
Is ear microsuction safe?
Yes. This is a best-practice method for earwax removal. At Papanui Ear Care, it is performed by qualified Registered Nurses who have undergone specialised training in ear microsuction and curettes.
Do you remove ear wax for children?
Yes, we do. We have a kid-friendly waiting area and use a play-based approach to minimise stress and anxiety for our tamariki and whānau.
We will assign an extended appointment slot at no extra cost for all paediatrics.
How do I know if I need ear wax removal?
Common symptoms of ear wax build-up include blocked ears, itchiness, reduced hearing, ear fullness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) & hearing aid feedback.
However, ear wax can also build up without any symptoms. We welcome ear checks to remove wax before symptoms appear and help maintain optimal ear health
Who are more prone to ear wax build-up?
People more prone to ear wax build-up include those with narrow ear canals, frequent hearing aid or earbud use, hairy ear canals, or naturally drier or harder wax. Genetics and stress can also contribute in some individuals.
What can I expect during the appointment?
Most appointments take between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the amount and consistency of wax present.
The ear nurse will perform a history taking related to your ear health, conduct an assessment with a digital otoscope, remove ear wax with microsuction, take a post-procedure photo of your ear canal & provide ear health education.
Can you help with ear infection?
Ear microsuction helps remove debris and ear wax, allowing for more effective delivery of ear drops and may facilitate healing of the ear canal. We can also send images to your GP for further evaluation & prescription of antibiotics ear drop.
What makes Papanui Ear Care different from other clinics?
We are one of the few clinics offering digital otoscopy, allowing you to see your ear canal and view before-and-after photos of your ear wax removal.
We also provide after-hours and weekend appointments with no surcharge, making care accessible for working individuals. As a family-friendly boutique clinic, we welcome children and provide toys to keep them comfortable while you undergo the consultation.
Consultation
Book your consultation with us
We offer same-day and after-hours appointments with no additional fees. If your preferred appointment time isn’t available, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help find a time that works for you.
Professional service fees
| Service | Fees |
| Consultation (examination with ear microsuction or foreign body removal) | $60 |
| Consultation (reduced fees when microsuction is not required) | $40 |
| Repeat microsuction (within 2 weeks) | $40 |
| Gold card / Community Service Card | $50 |
Each consultation is approximately 15-30 minutes. It consists of ear-related history taking, examination with an otoscope, ear wax removal, and education to support your ear health.
* We believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare. If cost is a barrier, flexible payment options are available. Please speak to our friendly staff.