Pros and Cons of Cochlear Implants

Pros and cons of cochlear implants vary greatly depending on individual experiences. Each person or caregiver will weigh the advantages and disadvantages when deciding what is best for them or their loved one for the hearing journey. 

What are Cochlear Implants and How Do They Work?

A cochlear implant is designed to provide a sense of sound to a person with moderate-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound, cochlear implants bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.

The cochlear implant system consists of two primary parts. The external audio processor, worn on either the ear or head, captures sound and transmits it to the internal component, surgically positioned beneath the skin behind the ear.

Improved Hearing Ability

For those with hearing loss, restaurants, grocery stores, and even airports can be extremely difficult to navigate. With a cochlear implant, the ability to perceive and localize sound is greatly enhanced in these environments.

Better Speech Comprehension

While loud and busy environments can be difficult, quiet environments can also be challenging for those with hearing loss. Cochlear implants help those with hearing loss understand speech better, allowing for more socialization and less isolation. Cochlear implant recipients enjoy talking on the phone and video chatting with their friends and family.

For children, the first few years of life are a crucial period for language. Cochlear implants, especially when provided early, can give a child access to spoken language during this formative time. A child's cochlear implant can help them develop speech and listening skills, potentially aligning their abilities more closely with hearing peers. Research shows that early implantation often leads to better language outcomes compared to later intervention.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Access to sound can greatly improve independence among individuals who choose to get a cochlear implant. They will be able to hear alarms or traffic which can keep them safe. And it allows them to socialize easier with friends and family. When a person is hard of hearing, the energy it takes to follow a conversation can be draining. A cochlear implant allows a person to have a longer social battery life since it makes socializing easier. A dinner party or concert that once seemed exhausting or even daunting is possible with a cochlear implant.

Expectations vs Reality

Receiving a cochlear implant marks the start of a new hearing journey. Adjusting takes time as the brain learns to interpret new sounds. Daily listening exercises can help maximize results. There are many types of rehabilitation programs, such as sound recognition and musical pitch comparison, which can be done either with a partner or on your own. Over time, these efforts help users feel more confident and capable in everyday situations.

Surgical Risk

Cochlear implantation has been established for decades as a successful and safe treatment for hearing loss. However, as with all surgical procedures, there are certain risks. These are minimal and no greater than those associated with other ear surgeries. While inflammation in the area of the cochlear implant cannot be ruled out, it is extremely rare. Causes can include bacterial infections or an allergic reaction. In such cases, rapid diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid complications and ensure the functionality of the implant.

Technical Problems

Although cochlear implants are rigorously tested, malfunctions do occur in isolated cases. These can lead to impaired hearing and require technical adjustments. The fact is that such malfunctions are extremely rare with MED-EL cochlear implants, and our implants are characterized by excellent long-term reliability. We attach great importance to communicating our reliability figures and CSR data comprehensively and transparently.