What they are, who they help, and what life
with one really looks like — without the jargon.
What they are, who they help, and what life with one really looks like — without the jargon.
A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that helps a person with severe-to-profound hearing loss perceive sound. Unlike a hearing aid, which amplifies sound, an implant bypasses damaged parts of the ear and sends signals directly to the auditory nerve.
It has two parts: an external sound processor worn behind the ear, and an internal component placed during a surgical procedure.
Implants can support children and adults whose hearing loss is significant enough that
hearing aids no longer provide enough benefit. A qualified audiologist and ENT will
assess whether an implant is appropriate.
Implants can support children and adults whose hearing loss is significant enough that hearing aids no longer provide enough benefit. A qualified audiologist and ENT will assess whether an implant is appropriate.
Cochlear implants restore 'normal' hearing.
They provide a different kind of hearing — useful and powerful, but it takes time and therapy to learn to use it well.
Implants are only for children.
Adults of all ages can benefit. Eligibility depends on the type and degree of hearing loss.
Once implanted, no more support is needed.
The implant is the start. Speech therapy, mapping sessions, and family support shape outcomes.
Sign language is no longer needed.
Many families choose a combination — sign and spoken language are not in opposition.
A few weeks of recovery before the device is switched on.
The audiologist 'maps' the device — your first day of new sound.
Speech and listening therapy helps the brain learn to interpret sound.
School, friendships, work — life continues, with new tools and new confidence.
