For people with severe to profound hearing loss who are not helped by hearing aids and therefore receive little to no benefit from them, cochlear implant surgery, which is a surgical procedure, can completely change their lives. Though, many patients might be frightened by the idea of the offered surgical procedure, knowing the process in advance can help them to get rid of their worries and thus become the stages positively. Here, the guide explains every single detail of the cochlear implant surgery steps, such as evaluation, and recovery. Thus, the patient is able to know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Candidacy Evaluation
After all, the implantation will not be carried out without the determination of the patient’s suitable candidate for it by adequate and first-of-all evaluation. The Treating physicians may determine patients’ suitability by assessing hearing tests and patients’ medical condition. The evaluation process usually includes the following steps:
- Hearing Tests – If your audiologist finds that you have hearing loss, he/she will inquire about the type and degree of the loss and then determine if it could be helped by a cochlear implant.
- Medical Examination – Besides hearing problems, an ENT doctor diagnoses various abnormalities of the ears, noses, and the throat.
- Imaging Tests – Pieces of technology such as computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging are used to examine the anatomy of the cochlea and to determine the proper functioning of surrounding structures.
- Speech and Language Assessment – These evaluations are going to measure your ability to understand language with a hearing aid and without a hearing aid.
- Counselling – Information is given to you about the processes followed with the implanting of the device, and an idea of what can be expected from them is included in the explanation.
Once you get the master permission, you will be given a surgery appointment, and your medical specialist will prescribe for you the pre-operative instructions.
Step 2: Getting Ready for Surgery
Here is a list of things you may need to do before a procedure is performed:
- Complete fasting, by refraining from eating or drinking for the period of time indicated to you.
- Fill out any necessary forms and attend any consultations before the surgery is performed.
- Stop taking medications as directed, like blood thinners.
- Get someone to drive you home after the surgery is performed.
Step 3: The Surgery
Cochlear Implant Surgery, like most surgeries, is performed under general anesthesia and can take approximately two to four hours. The surgery includes the following steps:
- Making an Incision: A small incision is made behind the ear to access the cochlea.
- Inserting the Electrode Array: A thin, flexible electrode is carefully inserted into the cochlea.
- Closing the Incision: The incision is stitched up, and a protective bandage is applied.
- Placing the Internal Implant: The receiver-stimulator, which connects to the electrode array, is secured under the skin behind the ear.
- Creating a Small Opening in the Skull: A portion of the mastoid bone is drilled to accommodate the internal implant.
Most patients are able to leave on the same day or stay the night for check-up.
Step 4: Recovery and Healing
After surgery, recovery is usually straight, but varies from person to another. What is expected here:
- Mild discomfort – some pain, swelling and dizziness can occur, but these symptoms are usually solved within a few days.
- Healing period – About two to four weeks are required to fix the incision site before activation.
- Activity restrictions – Avoid loud activities, heavy lifting, and wet the incision until your doctor cleans you.
- Follow-up appointments – Your surgeon will examine the incision site and ensure proper treatment before going to the activation phase.
Step 5: Activity of Coclear Implant
Nearly four weeks after surgery, the external sound processor is fitted and activated by an audiologist. This session includes:
- Programing the device – Audiologist adjusts the settings of implants to suit your hearing needs.
- Early sounds and adjustments – the first voice may seem robot or unfamiliar, but the brain gradually adapters.
- Training and rehabilitation – hearing medical sessions help you interpret the sounds and improve speech recognition over time.
Step 6: Long-Term Adjustment and Support
Getting used to cochlear implants takes time and continuous help. Users see slow improvements in how they understand speech, communicate, and hear overall. Regular check-ups with an audiologist make sure the device works well, and listening practice sessions boost hearing skills.
Final Thoughts
Cochlear implant surgery offers a safe and effective choice for people with bad hearing loss. Knowing about the procedure, recovery, and what to expect in the long run can help patients feel more sure about their choice. If you or someone you care about is thinking about cochlear implants, talk to an audiologist or ear, nose, and throat doctor to find out if this life-changing technology is right for you.