FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT COCHLEAR IMPLANTS

Cochlear implants are widely used in adults and children who cannot benefit from hearing aids. More recently in Australia, even those who have a profound hearing loss in one ear only, may be eligible for cochlear implantation.

You will need to see an implant team comprised of an ENT Specialist and an implant audiologist to ensure you are a good candidate for cochlear implantation and to discuss the rehabilitation process. Your GP or ENT Surgeon can refer you to our implant team at Medical Audiology Services. Click here to complete the Professional Referral form.

As with any surgical/medical procedure, the results of implantation cannot be predicted or guaranteed. A wide range of outcomes is possible as many factors will influence the results, including your age at implantation, onset of deafness, duration of deafness, other pathologies etc. For instance, for children born with a hearing loss, the earlier the age of implantation, the greater the benefit achieved in speech perception and speech and language development.

After surgery, you will return to the implant clinic for the fitting of the external components and activation of the implant. This will be followed by a number of follow-up visits for “mapping sessions” and hearing rehabilitation. The implant audiologist will program the implant and make necessary adjustments to allow for the most comfortable and beneficial hearing. Rehabilitation training will depend on each individuals’ needs, difficulties and expectations.

 Remember – wearing a cochlear implant is a lifetime commitment!

The total cost varies between implant centres and the services you need. Private health insurance providers cover the cost of an implant. You will need to discuss this with your private health fund once the surgeon and audiologist have provided you with billing codes.

There are risks inherent with any surgery requiring general anaesthesia. The surgical risks of cochlear implantation are minimal and complications are very rare. You will receive further information about this from you Ear, Nose and Throat specialist and Anaesthesiologist.

The externally worn speech processor can be upgraded as technology improves so there is no need for further surgery.