Questions
The things people ask most. If yours isn't here, ring and ask.
Do I need to be a patient at the practice?
No. Anyone's welcome. If I already treat you, you know where we are. If I don't, you're just as welcome, at the same prices.
What does the £25 cover?
I look in both ears and tell you whether wax is the problem. If it isn't, you pay £25 and that's it. If it is, the £25 is part of the removal price, not added on top: £50 in total for one ear, £65 for both.
What if the wax doesn't all come out?
Some wax is stubborn and won't all shift in one go, and I won't force it. If it won't come out easily, I'll ask you to soften it with an olive oil ear spray until you come back, and then I finish the job, free of charge. If you need a spray, I can supply Earol for £5.
Microsuction or irrigation, which is better?
Neither, across the board. Both get wax out, in different ways. Microsuction lifts it out with a fine suction tube. Irrigation washes it out with a controlled flow of warm water. Which suits you depends on your ears and the wax, and I'll explain my choice before I start.
Do you do ear syringing?
Irrigation is the modern version of ear syringing: a steady, controlled flow of warm water washes the wax out. I do that, and microsuction too, and I'll use whichever suits your ears.
Should I do anything before my appointment?
It helps to soften the wax first with an olive oil ear spray, usually twice a day in the days before your appointment. You can get one from most chemists, or I can supply Earol spray for £5.
How long does it take?
Appointments are 40 minutes. That covers everything: questions, a look in both ears, removal if it's needed, and a final check.
Who will I see?
Me, Paddy. Ear wax appointments are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Can I book online?
Not yet. It's coming. For now, ring the practice on 0117 949 1290, or email me and I'll reply with a time.
My ear hurts. Should I book?
Not for this. A painful or discharging ear needs your GP first, not a wax appointment.
Do you do hearing tests or hearing aids?
No, and no tinnitus treatment either. Wax removal, done properly, and nothing else.
I thought it was The Fishponds Practice?
It is, until November 2026, when it becomes The Chestnut Practice. Same building, same people, same phone number.
Where do I park?
There's 1-hour parking on Fishponds Road between 10am and 4.30pm, and 2-hour parking at Straits Parade opposite. The full rules are on the Find us page.
Book an appointment
Ring the practice and ask for an ear wax appointment with Paddy.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays · 40 minutes · or email me and I'll reply with a time