Cochlear implantation is a surgical procedure to provide hearing to individuals who have lost their hearing completely or almost completely.
Unlike hearing aids, the implant does not rely on the outer ear but sends signals directly to the nerves in the inner ear to restore hearing.
Who is suitable for cochlear implantation?
The procedure is recommended for:
• Individuals with severe or complete hearing loss
• Those who do not benefit from hearing aids
• Congenital or acquired hearing impairment
• Children with delayed speech development
• Patients who perceive sounds only as vibrations
• People with bilateral (both ears) sensorineural hearing loss
How is the surgery performed?
• Under general anesthesia
• Duration: approximately 1.5–2 hours
• An incision is made behind the ear and the implant is placed
• After surgery, the patient usually stays in the clinic for 1 day
When is the device activated?
• The implant is activated 2–4 weeks after surgery
• During this period, the surgical site heals
• After activation, hearing therapy and rehabilitation begin
Expected results
• Significant improvement in speech comprehension and communication skills
• Children implanted at an early age may develop normal speech
• Adults with post-lingual hearing loss generally show even better outcomes
Cochlear implantation in children
• Early implantation (before 1 year of age) is crucial for normal speech and social development in children with congenital hearing loss
• Rehabilitation programs and speech therapy support are recommended for families