Department of Otolaryngology / Head and Neck Surgery

Cochlear Implants

A cochlear implant is an electronic device designed to provide useful hearing and improved communication ability to individuals who are profoundly hearing impaired and unable to achieve speech understanding with hearing aids. Part of the device is surgically implanted in an outpatient procedure. The outer portion is worn behind-the ear or on the waist like a pager.

Suitable candidates for a cochlear implant include very young children who are born deaf, or who lost their hearing at an early age, and adults who lose their hearing after learning to speak. You can read more about cochlear implants at: