Cochlear implants

A SURGICALLY IMPLANTED DEVICE TO TREAT SEVERE HEARING LOSS

Cochlear implants work by stimulating the nerves in the inner ear to send sound signals to the brain.

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What is a cochlear ear implant?

A cochlear implant is an electronic device that can be suitable for those who are profoundly deaf.

It has several different parts — some are surgically implanted under the skin and some are worn on the body. It works by stimulating the nerves in the inner ear to send sound signals to the brain.

Need to know

About having a cochlear implant

Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you and let you know how to prepare for your surgery and what to expect. You'll need to be assessed to make sure you're a suitable candidate for a cochlear implant. You may be able to have a cochlear implant for one ear or two (one for each ear).

What happens during surgery

Cochlear implant surgery is carried out under a general anaesthetic. Your surgeon will shave a small area of your hair behind your ear. They will then make a an incision behind your ear and drill through the bone, into the middle ear and into the cochlea.

The internal part of the device will be inserted and your surgeon will sew up the cut. The surgery can take between two to five hours, and you will wake with a large bandage on your head.

After surgery

Most patients feel better quite quickly. You'll be cared for in hospital for one to two days after surgery. After surgery to insert the implant has taken place the implant will be turned on a few weeks later.

Paying for medical treatment

You don't need medical insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.

Learn more about self-pay