Cochlear Implants
Learn about cochlear implants — how they work, who is a candidate, what the process looks like, and the device options available through our program.
What Is a Cochlear Implant?
A cochlear implant is a small, surgically placed electronic device that provides a sense of sound to people with severe to profound hearing loss. Unlike hearing aids, which make sounds louder, cochlear implants bypass damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
The device has two main components: an external sound processor worn behind the ear that captures sound and converts it to electrical signals, and an internal implant placed under the skin during surgery that delivers those signals to the auditory nerve.
Cochlear implants can dramatically improve hearing and speech understanding for adults and children who no longer benefit adequately from hearing aids, helping them reconnect with conversation, music, and the world around them.
Cochlear implant diagram
Am I a Candidate?
Cochlear implant candidacy is determined through a comprehensive evaluation
You may be a candidate for a cochlear implant if you meet some or all of the following criteria. Recent FDA changes have expanded eligibility, so even if you were previously told you did not qualify, it may be worth seeking a new evaluation.
- Severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss in one or both ears
- Limited benefit from properly fitted hearing aids
- No medical contraindications to surgery
- Motivation to participate in hearing rehabilitation
- Realistic expectations about outcomes
- Adults and children (typically 12 months and older for children)
The Cochlear Implant Process
What to expect from start to finish
1. Referral & Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a referral from your physician or audiologist. At your first visit, our team will review your hearing history and discuss your goals.
2. Comprehensive Evaluation
Our audiologists perform detailed hearing tests and a hearing aid trial. Medical imaging (CT/MRI) is ordered to assess your inner ear anatomy.
3. Candidacy Decision & Insurance
The team meets to review your results and determine candidacy. Our financial counselors work with your insurance for prior authorization.
4. Surgery
The outpatient procedure takes about 2–3 hours under general anesthesia. Most patients go home the same day with minimal discomfort.
5. Activation & Programming
About 2–4 weeks after surgery, your external processor is activated. Your audiologist programs the device and adjusts settings for comfort and clarity.
6. Ongoing Care & Rehabilitation
Regular follow-up appointments fine-tune your device. Auditory rehabilitation helps you get the most out of your cochlear implant over time.
Device Options
Our center works with all three FDA-approved cochlear implant manufacturers
Cochlear
Nucleus System
Cochlear's Nucleus system offers the thinnest and lightest behind-the-ear sound processor, with advanced features including direct audio streaming and a smartphone app for adjustments.
- SmartSound iQ
- Direct streaming
- Waterproof accessories
Advanced Bionics
HiRes Ultra 3D
Advanced Bionics' HiRes Ultra 3D implant features MRI-compatible technology and the Marvel CI sound processor, built on Phonak hearing aid technology for excellent sound quality.
- MRI compatible
- Phonak technology
- AutoSense OS
MED-EL
SYNCHRONY System
MED-EL's SYNCHRONY system features the longest electrode array for complete cochlear coverage and a compact sound processor designed for comfort and ease of use.
- Full cochlear coverage
- Compact processor
- MRI safe
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about cochlear implants
A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that is surgically placed in the inner ear (cochlea) and provides a sense of sound to a person who has severe to profound hearing loss. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound, cochlear implants bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
Candidates typically include adults and children with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss in both ears who receive limited benefit from hearing aids. Recent FDA guideline changes have expanded eligibility to include people with moderate to severe hearing loss. Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if you are a candidate.
A cochlear implant has two main parts: an external sound processor worn behind the ear and an internal implant placed under the skin during surgery. The external processor captures sound, converts it to electrical signals, and transmits them to the internal implant, which stimulates the auditory nerve directly, allowing the brain to perceive sound.
Cochlear implant surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Most patients go home the same day. The external processor is activated about 2 to 4 weeks after surgery to allow for healing.
Cochlear implant surgery is considered safe with a low complication rate. Potential risks include infection, changes in taste, dizziness, tinnitus, and in rare cases, facial nerve injury. Your surgeon will discuss all risks and benefits thoroughly before the procedure.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days to a week after surgery. The incision site typically heals within 2 to 4 weeks, at which point the external processor is fitted and activated. Hearing improvement is gradual and continues with programming adjustments and auditory rehabilitation.
Most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover cochlear implants when medical criteria are met. Our team includes financial counselors who will work with your insurance company to verify coverage and assist with prior authorization before your procedure.
Yes, bilateral (both ears) cochlear implantation is increasingly common and can significantly improve sound localization and hearing in noisy environments. The two implants can be placed during the same surgery or in separate procedures. Our team will discuss whether bilateral implantation is right for you.
Hearing aids amplify sound and work best for mild to moderate hearing loss. Cochlear implants bypass damaged hair cells in the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve, making them appropriate for people with severe to profound hearing loss who no longer benefit sufficiently from hearing aids.
Modern cochlear implants are designed to be MRI compatible under certain conditions. Most current devices allow MRI scans at 1.5 Tesla and some at 3.0 Tesla. Your cochlear implant team will provide specific guidance based on your device. It's important to inform any healthcare provider about your implant before undergoing an MRI.