Poor image choice for public engagement, but we do use that type of microscope for ear surgery like tympanoplasties and cochlear implement placements.
Judging by her attire and lack of a sterile drape, we're seeing a pic from the ear clinic, not one of surgery, but I'd assume they use similar equipment.
Anyway, the image does track with the headline, but only to a targeted audience who knows that environment.
Hmm, that's a thing too, but I'm not really sure what equipment they'd need for that. I always just assumed it was with a otoscope (little handheld thing with a cone on the end that sticks into your ear) and a loop curette (really expensive piece of wire that we buy for some reason).