Frequently Asked CI Questions
Choosing a cochlear implant involves a bit of research and may raise some questions. We have developed a list of the questions and answers most commonly asked by cochlear implant candidates. Scroll through the topics below. If you want to learn more, request an information package.
- What is a cochlear implant?
- What should I consider when choosing my cochlear implant?
- How does Cochlear compare in reliabiliy to other manufacturers?
- How will I hear after I have my cochlear implant?
- Should I wait for the newest technology?
- What is the most technically advanced cochlear implant available today?
- When will I have surgery and what can I expect?
- What does the outside part of the cochlear implant look like?
- Do I have to limit my sports activity? What about SCUBA diving and swimming?
- How long do the batteries in the processors last?
- What type of batteries do the processors take?
- What is a ‘Microlink’?
- Who invented cochlear implants?
What is a cochlear implant?
A cochlear implant is an electronic device, which can enhance hearing and speech abilities for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. A cochlear implant system comes in two parts; the first part is the external speech processor and the second is the internal implant which is placed under the skin.
What should I consider when choosing my cochlear implant?
When considering which cochlear implant manufacturer is most suited for you, you may want to compare product features, design, ease of use, performance and, most importantly, long term reliability of the device. Reputable implant manufacturers produce reports on the results of their devices.
How does Cochlear compare in reliabiliy to other manufacturers?
Cochlear is known in the industry for developing the most advanced and reliable cochlear implants. It's built using the toughest materials available and tested to the highest military/space grade standards.
How will I hear after I have my cochlear implant?
Everyone’s initial experience with their cochlear implant is unique. However, most implant users say that the sound changes with time and gets better every day. If you’ve previously used a hearing aid you’ll notice a difference in sound with your new implant. You may notice a more ‘tinny’ sound quality at the beginning, as you’ll be able to hear high pitch sounds that you might not have heard for a long time.
Children who’ve had little or no hearing prior to their cochlear implant appear to get used to the sound very quickly.
If you are uncomfortable with the sounds you experience after switch-on, work with your Cochlear Implant Consultant or Audiologist until the sound is improved.
Should I wait for the newest technology?
At Cochlear, we design our products so that you can benefit from new technological innovations without the need for additional surgery. Our track record demonstrates this. Nucleus users implanted 20 years ago now have the same access to features available to users implanted just recently. In addition, we gave Nucleus 5 the processing power and programming flexibility to handle technology advancements that aren’t even available today.
What is the most technically advanced cochlear implant available today?
Nucleus® 5 System is Cochlear’s most technically advanced cochlear implant system available. It features the thinnest implant avaialbe, and it’s designed to behave much in the same way as natural hearing, letting you focus on the sounds that are most important.
When will I have surgery and what can I expect?
Your operation will be arranged after your consulting clinic has completed all your evaluations. Ask your Cochlear Implant Consultant for more information about your surgery.
Cochlear implant surgery normally takes 1-3 hours. Typically, you would go home later the same day or early the following morning. Most people return to normal activities within a few days or a week. As with any operation there may be an element of discomfort. Most discomfort or pain after the operation can be managed with normal pain-killers.
The external processor is typically activated within 4-6 weeks after surgery.
What does the outside part of the cochlear implant look like?
A cochlear implant has two parts: an internal part, called the cochlear implant and an external part called a speech processor. You cannot see the internal part because it is under the skin. There are two types of speech processors:
1) The behind-the-ear models like the Nucleus 5 BTE, which sits behind the ear similar to a hearing aid.
2) The bone-anchored hearing aid, such as the Baha models, which work by sound conduction. They also have an external processor behind the ear, but have a small, box-like shape.
Do I have to limit my sports activity? What about SCUBA diving and swimming?
Having a cochlear implant will not limit your swimming or sports activity. For swimming you will need to remove the external component when you swim, much like you would have to remove a hearing aid. The internal part of the cochlear implant is not affected by water. More aggressive or contact sports require you to wear a helmet to protect your equipment. Boxing and other aggressive sports are discouraged.
For SCUBA divers, the internal implant is validated to withstand pressure at a depth of 25 meters (82 feet) underwater. However, it is recommended that you check with your surgeon or clinician before participating in a dive. There may be other medical conditions that you will need to consider.
How long do the batteries in the processors last?
Batteries for the behind-the-ear model of speech processor typically last several days.
Generally if you are in noisy environments your speech processor works harder and therefore requires more battery power.
What type of batteries do the processors take?
Behind-the-ear processors use small high-powered zinc-air style batteries similar to those used in hearing aids, whilst body worn processors normally use rechargeable or standard AA or AAA batteries depending on the model. Your Cochlear Implant Consultant will be able to suggest the best battery type for your processor.
What is a ‘Microlink’?
A ‘Microlink’ is a miniaturised Radio Aid (FM) system for hearing aid and cochlear implant users. The Microlink state-of-the-art receiver attaches directly to the speech processor, enhancing speech understanding, particularly in difficult hearing situations. This tiny receiver is compatible with Phonak’s range of transmitters as well as those produced by other manufacturers. For more information refer to Phonak’s website.
Children wishing to take advantage of Mircolink technology can get funding via local education services, while adults can seek funding through a variety of different charitable and professional bodies.
Please contact your Cochlear Implant Consultant for more information.
Who invented cochlear implants?
Professor Graeme Clark of the University of Melbourne was the creator and developer of the world’s first multi-channel implant and is considered by many to be the father of the cochlear implant. Professor Clark continues to work closely with Cochlear to bring the gift of hearing to every child and adult who can benefit.
