Cochlear implant surgery is a high-technology solution developed for individuals experiencing severe hearing loss and restoring the sense of hearing. This system enables the restoration of hearing function by transmitting sounds directly to the auditory nerves.
Prices are estimates; the final price is set after examination.
✓What is a Cochlear Implant?
A cochlear implant is an electronic hearing device designed for individuals with advanced hearing loss who do not benefit sufficiently from hearing aids. While traditional hearing aids work by amplifying sound, a cochlear implant creates sound perception by sending electrical stimulation directly to the auditory nerves.
✓How Does a Cochlear Implant Work?
The cochlear implant system consists of two main components:
External Component: A sound processor worn behind the ear. It detects surrounding sounds, converts them into electrical signals, and transmits them to the internal component.
Internal Component: Consists of electrodes implanted in the inner ear through a surgical operation that directly stimulate the auditory nerves.
Through this system, individuals with hearing loss can hear sounds more clearly and intelligibly.
✓Who Is Suitable for a Cochlear Implant?
Those with advanced or severe hearing loss
Those who do not benefit sufficiently from hearing aids
Individuals with reduced speech and word comprehension abilities
Those experiencing difficulty in social life due to hearing loss
Children whose education and development process is affected by hearing loss
✓How Is Cochlear Implant Surgery Performed?
Cochlear implant surgery is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2-3 hours. The surgical process consists of the following steps:
1. Pre-Operative Preparation
The patient undergoes hearing tests, magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomography (CT) scans.
Anesthesia and surgical evaluations are completed.
The patient's general health status is analyzed.
2. Surgical Procedure
A small incision is made behind the ear and the internal component is placed in the inner ear.
Electrodes are positioned in the cochlea to stimulate the auditory nerves.
The external processor is prepared for post-operative use.
✓How Are Sounds Heard After a Cochlear Implant Is Placed?
A cochlear implant does not provide a natural hearing experience. Initially, sounds may be perceived as metallic (robotic) or muffled. However, the brain gradually begins to recognize and interpret these sounds.
Sound perception depends on the following factors:
The brain's capacity to process sounds
The auditory rehabilitation and speech therapy process
Regular adjustment of the implant's sound settings
Generally, significant improvements are observed within the first 6 months, and users gradually gain a hearing experience closer to natural hearing.
The patient usually stays in the hospital for 1 day.
Approximately 1 month later, the external component of the device is placed and adjustments are made.
Within the first few weeks, the brain begins to adapt to the new hearing process.
First Days and Recovery Process
In the first few days, there may be dizziness and mild pain, but these decrease over time.
The incision area should be protected against infection and dressing should be done as recommended by the doctor.
Heavy exercise should be avoided for the first 4 weeks.
Installation and Activation of the External Processor
The external processor is installed and the device is activated 3-4 weeks after surgery.
Initial sound adjustments are made by the audiologist.
The patient begins the auditory rehabilitation process to recognize sounds and become accustomed to the processor.
Auditory Rehabilitation Process
The brain needs time to interpret the signals coming from the cochlear implant.
Speech therapy and auditory exercises help accelerate the process.
Hearing improvement varies from person to person.
Cochlear Implant Price
Cochlear implant prices can vary depending on many factors:
Technical specifications of the device, The hospital where the surgery is performed, The surgeon's experience
At what age can cochlear implant surgery be performed?
It can be applied in babies aged 12 months and above. There is no age limit for adults.
Does cochlear implant provide completely normal hearing?
No, but it provides a better hearing experience than hearing aids.
Is cochlear implant water-resistant?
Most new generation models are water-resistant and can be used even while swimming.
Should cochlear implant be preferred instead of hearing aids?
If hearing aids do not provide sufficient benefit, cochlear implant may be the best option.
Will there be pain after surgery?
Generally mild to moderate pain is felt and decreases within a few days.
Can cochlear implant be performed on both ears?
Yes, bilateral implant application is possible and can further improve the hearing experience.
What is the lifespan of cochlear implant?
The internal component lasts a lifetime, while the external processor can be used for approximately 5-10 years.
