Cochlear Implants
When hearing aids aren’t enough
For some individuals with significant hearing loss, traditional hearing aids may not provide enough benefit. Cochlear implants offer an alternative.
A cochlear implant is a medical device that bypasses the damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve, sending sound signals directly to the brain. It works through two main parts:
- An internal component that is surgically placed under the skin and into the cochlear
- An external sound processor that sits behind the ear, capturing and converting sound into digital signals sent to the implant
Who may benefit from cochlear implants
- Adults or children with severe sensorineural hearing loss in both ears
- Those who receive limited benefit from properly fitted hearing aids
- People motivated to participate in rehabilitation and listening therapy
Your audiologist at Hearing Associates can help determine whether you may be a candidate through specialized testing and consultation.
How does the cochlear implant process work?
Cochlear implantation is performed as an outpatient procedure, typically lasting about two hours. In most cases, patients return home the same day. After the surgical site has healed (usually within a few weeks), the external sound processor is connected and “activated,” marking the start of your new hearing experience.
From there, your audiologist fine-tunes the device and provides ongoing support to help your brain adapt to sound. Contact our office to determine if a cochlear implant is right for you.
Ready to hear life clearly again?
The first step is simple. Schedule a hearing evaluation at our Libertyville or Gurnee office and discover solutions that fit you, your goals, and your lifestyle.