Cochlear Implants

What is a cochlear implant?

A cochlear implant is a specialized device that aids in carrying sound directly to the hearing nerve.  There are two parts: one is internally implanted behind your ear and the second part is a processor that you wear on/near your ear.  Anyone who is not benefitting from the use of hearing aids should consider a cochlear implant.  Our clinic provides audiology and speech-language pathology services related to the use of a cochlear implant.

How can it be evaluated?

Prior to receiving a cochlear implant, you are required to undergo an evaluation process which includes an audiologist, speech-language pathologist, and an ENT physician.  You will first meet with an ENT physician prior to completing the remainder of the evaluation process.  During the audiology portion of the evaluation process, the audiologist will test your hearing with and without hearing aids to determine if a cochlear implant may be a good option for you.

What happens if I get a cochlear implant?

Following surgery for the cochlear implant, you will be scheduled at our clinic for audiology visits which will include activation (i.e., turning on the device) as well as follow-up visits.  Follow-up visits can include programming of the device, troubleshooting of the device, orientation to the device and associated accessories, and testing your hearing abilities while wearing the device.

FAQs

• Is surgery required?
  Yes, a cochlear implant does require surgery.  This surgery is conducted by an ENT physician.
• Who is part of the care team?
  The following members are part of the care team for patients with cochlear implants: audiologist, speech-language pathologist, and the ENT physician.  The audiologist and speech-language pathologist are both located in our clinic while the ENT physician is located at a separate facility in close proximity to our clinic.
• Are there follow-up appointments after I receive my cochlear implant?
  Yes, there will usually be audiology appointments at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and then every 12 months after activation of the device.
• What manufacturers does your clinic work with?
  Our clinic works with both Advanced Bionics and Cochlear Americas.
• What if I got my cochlear implant from another office?
  Even if you initially received your cochlear implant from another office/hospital, you are still able to schedule an appointment with our office for services as long as you use a manufacturer that we service.
• Does my health insurance cover costs associated with a cochlear implant?
  While it depends on your particular health insurance coverage, many health insurance companies provide at least partial coverage for services related to cochlear implants.