Cochlear Implants

At Live Better Hearing and Balance, we have partnered with Cochlear and cochlear implant otolaryngologists to help provide qualified patients receive these remarkable hearing devices. We work with children and adults out of our Ellicott City location. Our job in the process is to help evaluate your hearing to determine if you are a candidate, and then help you find the answers you need to make an educated decision. After your surgery, we work with the patients closely to tune the implant for optimal hearing.

How do cochlear implants work?

Cochlear implants are an FDA-approved medical treatment designed to replace the function of the inner ear (cochlea) and mimic natural hearing. They work by sending electrical impulses to the inner ear and on to the hearing nerve to create the sensation of hearing. This is then interpreted by the brain as sound. There are two main components to a cochlear implant system: an external processor and an internal implant. Research shows that adults with cochlear implants understand sentences almost seven times better on average than they could with hearing aids.

How long is cochlear implant surgery?

Cochlear implant surgery can last up to two hours for one ear. The surgery is typically outpatient and performed under general anesthesia. Cochlear implant procedure is considered safe, but like with any surgery, there are risks. After a couple days of recovery, most people are back to their normal routine and back to work 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. 

How much does a cochlear implant cost?

The out-of-pocket cost associated with getting a cochlear implant will depend on your insurance plan and eligibility. Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants are covered by Medicare. Hearing evaluations are typically covered by insurance too.

How do I know if I am a candidate?

Cochlear implants help adults with moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears who are not receiving enough benefit when using hearing aids. Cochlear implants can also help children from 9 months to 24 months with bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss and children from 2 to 17 years of age with bilateral severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss. 

If you are interested in learning more please make an appointment at our Ellicott City location to schedule a cochlear implant consultation.

One of the first steps to getting a cochlear implant is to have your hearing tested by an audiologist who is trained in cochlear implants and advanced hearing technologies to see if you qualify as a candidate.

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