A cochlear implant is an electronic device that is surgically placed in the cochlea by a physician who specializes in disorders of the ear. There is an internal part that has to be surgically placed in the ear and an external part that has to be worn.

What does a cochlear implant evaluation involve?

The need for a cochlear implant is determined through an extensive evaluation process that involves working with a team of professionals including:

Information to be obtained from these appointments includes but is not limited to: 

  • Confirmation of the severe-to-profound degree of hearing loss (through ABR and behavioral testing as appropriate)
  • Documentation of the lack of benefit from appropriately fit hearing aids
  • Determination that your child is healthy enough to undergo the surgery
  • Immunization review

The cochlear implant audiologist will also: 

  • Discuss the difference between hearing aids and a cochlear implant
  • Discuss how the cochlear implant works
  • Demonstrate implant device systems that are currently available
  • Discuss the expected benefit that your child will receive with a cochlear implant based on the results obtained during the evaluation process

What happens after your child has received the implant? 

  • The implant will be turned on for the first time about one month after surgery and you will learn how to use and take care of your child’s equipment
  • Numerous appointments to the implant audiologist are required the first year to maximize the amount of benefit your child will receive from the cochlear implant.  After the first year, appointments will be scheduled once or twice a year depending on the age and needs of your child. 
  • Weekly therapy with a speech pathologist trained in Auditory-Verbal therapy will be required

Throughout this process, any member of the Cochlear Implant Team is available to answer questions and/or address any concerns.  

For questions about cochlear implants or to schedule an appointment, please call (757) 668-7605