Cochlear Implant

A Cochlear Implant (sometimes referred to as a "Bionic Ear"), is a small electronic device that is surgically implanted into a patient's ear in order to improve their hearing or restore it. This device is designated for people who are deaf or extremely hard of hearing.

In opposed to a hearing aid, that enhances sounds for people who are hard of hearing, the cochlear device stimulates auditory nerves in the cochlea. People who have been 'hearing impaired' for only a short amount of time still have functioning auditory nerves and are ideal candidates for this procedure.

Cochlear Implant Video

The implant is composed of two parts: the internal part implanted in the ear, and the external part placed behind the patient's ear. The internal part is actually a tiny computer that includes a small electrode and a tiny receiver placed under ones skin behind the ear. The external part is a small device that receives audio signals, processes them and transmits them into the receiver under the skin.

This device is different from a hearing aid in that it imitates the physiological hearing process and thus stimulates hearing in people that lost the ability to do so. Once the signals reach the inner part of the device, they are broadcasted it to the cochlea nerves which then transfer the signals to the brain. The brain transforms the signal into the hearing.

Cochlear Implant Surgery

The cochlear implant surgery is a complicated process that requires a staff of ENG doctors and tech experts that handle the device. The surgery lasts about three hours and is performed under general anesthesia. During surgery, an incision is made behind the ear in the mastoid bone in order to reach the cochlea. At this point the electrode is inserted to the cochlea and the small receiver is placed under the skin. Once this is done the incision is closed up.

The second part is of course the assembly of the external parts of the cochlear implant device, which is done while the patient is fully awake, after a recovery period in which the incision had time to heal. In this process, the device is calibrated according to the patient's personal needs.

Recovery time may vary from patient to patient as some will may be hospitalized for a few days and some may be released on the day of the operation. Full physical recovery takes anywhere from one to four weeks.

It should be known that there are no immediate results as the brain must learn to adapt to newly transmitted sounds and vibrations. Speech therapy and development are considered to the most essential elements of recovery after a cochlear implant.

Cochlear Implant Surgery Abroad

A Cochlear Implant surgery is a complicated procedure that requires top Ear Nose & Throat doctors and surgeons. Regaining your hearing abilities is an extremely delicate process that must be done with absolute precision. TicketMed is affiliated with the top ENT clinics and surgeons that will maximize your results. We will be happy to assist and accompany you in your Cochlear Implant surgery to regain your hearing. Contact us or ask for a quote.

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Cochlear Implant FAQ

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Am I a suitable candidate for a Cochlear Implant?

The Cochlear Implant is intended mainly for deaf people or for those who are extremely hard of hearing, as well as reached this state recently. People with less of a condition will usually be recommended for a hearing aid which is designated for less extreme cases of hearing loss. Anyhow, you should contact your ear doctor to receive a specific diagnosis.

How does the Cochlear Implant differ from a Hearing aid?

A hearing aid enhances the audio signals (what we call 'sound') for the patient using it. The cochlear implant stimulates auditory nerves in the cochlea which transforms them into audio signals which are then sent to the brain which will interpret them. Another difference is that a hearing aid does not require any surgical procedure, while the cochlear implant does.

In how many treatments is the implant procedure done?

The cochlear implantation is done in two separate stages. The first is the invasive surgery in which the tiny electrode and receiver will be implanted under the patient's skin behind his ear.
The second stage is performed only after the surgery wound has healed and there is no surgical procedure involved. The device is simply installed and calibrated according to the patient's personal needs; behind his hear and on top of the skin.

What is the recovery process for a Cochlear Implant Surgery?

This will depend on the exact condition post-surgery and your attending physician. Some may be released on the same day of the implant procedure while others may remain hospitalized for a few days. Full physical recovery takes anywhere from one to four weeks.
Only after the wound completely heals, the second stage of connecting the outer part of the implant will continue and it be installed.

Will I begin hearing immediately?

No, there is a period that the brain needs to adapt to these new signals that are sent to him. It can take a few weeks for the patient's brain to get used to the signals and start hearing properly. Speech therapy will also be needed for the other part of the recovery process as the patient will need to learn to speak accordingly, with the new implant installed.

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