What are cochlear implants?

What are cochlear implants

In recent years, cochlear implants have been recognized by audiologists and physicians alike as a useful tool that provides people who are deaf or severely hard of hearing with a sense of sound and a better understanding of speech, but some mystery still surrounds these devices. As they continue to gain more attention, even more questions arise. How do they work? Who’s allowed to gvet these implants? Are they dangerous? Each of these questions has the capacity to stigmatize and clarify, so in an attempt to detangle certain misconceptions, we are going to address them and hopefully, provide a clearer definition of their role in hearing healthcare. 

As it was defined earlier, cochlear implants are a tool that assists those with severe hearing loss or deafness, but unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants do not amplify sound for damaged ears. Instead, according to Cochlear, they “are designed to mimic the function of a healthy inner ear (or cochlea). They replace the function of damaged sensory hair cells inside the inner ear to help provide clearer sound than what hearing aids can provide.” Here’s how each part works: 

A microphone situated near the ear picks up sounds and sends them to a speech processor, and the processor selects and arranges these sounds for the receiver located just under the skin. The sounds are then converted into electronic pulses and sent down to the electrode array within the cochlea itself. The auditory nerves in the cochlea then pick up the signals and send them to the brain, and just like that, someone who could not hear before, has the ability to hear. But, the sound created by cochlear implants doesn’t precisely replicate real-world sound.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), “An implant does not restore normal hearing. Instead, it can give a deaf person a useful representation of sounds in the environment and help him or her to understand speech.” As a result, it takes time to relearn and acclimate to this new sound environment. Despite this extra hurdle, people are still opting in for the chance to hear their loved ones again.

In an estimate provided by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), over 118,000 devices have been implanted in adults and around 65,000 in children since the end of 2019, but not everyone qualifies to receive one.

To be eligible, according to the Mayo Clinic, you must have:

  • Hearing loss that interrupts spoken communication
  • Limited benefit from hearing aids as determined by specialized hearing tests
  • Motivation to participate in hearing rehabilitation and be part of the hearing world
  • Realistic expectations of what cochlear implants can and can’t do for hearing

Since this is a surgical operation, there are certain risks that candidates should be aware of including the loss of residual hearing, meningitis and device failure among other things; however, candidates that have gone through with the procedure have reported improvements in their ability to hear speech, recognize everyday sounds and communicate in general.

Making a life-changing decision like this is no small task, so before deciding on anything, consult your local audiologist to see if you qualify, air out your questions and concerns and go forward with the route that best supports your hearing and mental health needs.

Take control of your hearing health today!

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Additional Services from Big Sky Audiology

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Hearing Tests

Comprehensive hearing assessments to identify and address your unique needs.

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Hearing Aids

Personalized fittings and adjustments for optimal hearing aid performance.

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Hearing Aid Repair

Expert hearing aid repair services to restore clarity and enhance device longevity.

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Hearing Implants

Advanced hearing implant solutions to improve sound clarity and hearing experience.

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Ear Cleaning

Gentle and thorough ear cleaning services to remove buildup and improve hearing.

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Ongoing Care

Continuous support and follow-up to ensure your long-term hearing health.

I was told everything prior to my tests, even wh shows me that you respect me as a person, thank you.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Vicki. We truly believe in treating every person with respect and care, and we're glad to know that was reflected in your experience. It means a lot to us that you felt informed and valued throughout the process. We're here for you anytime and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Big Sky Audiology is very professional and Tracy Hayden is wonderful. She takes her time with you and make sure that you understand everything with your hearing aids.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind words! We're thrilled to hear you had a great experience with Dr. Hayden—she truly cares about making sure everything is clear and comfortable when it comes to hearing aids. We are so happy you are a part of the Big Sky Audiology family!
An appointment with Brandy is always a very pleasant and helpful experience. She checks to hear any questions I might have with the new experience of hearing aids and also makes sure they are in perfect condition. Everyone on the staff at Big Sky Audiology is very pleasant and it has been a totally positive choice for me.
Thank you everyone, especially Brandy!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5 star review Frances! We're thrilled to hear that your experience with us has been so positive. We pride ourselves in making sure each patient feels comfortable and supported throughout their hearing journey. We look forward to seeing you again the future!
I was extremely satisfied with the care that I received at Big Sky Audiology. They were able to solve a problem that I have had for years.
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Convenient, Easy parking, Friendly service,
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This John Lyons
This a great place to get hearing aids! All the people are very nice!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the review John! We are thrilled to hear you had a great experience with us! Our team is dedicated to making sure every visit is a positive one, and we are happy to know you feel this way! We are thankful you are a part of our Big Sky Family and we look forward to seeing you!
Friendly, very helpful, understood my hearing difficulties. Will be back.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We're glad to hear that you felt supported and understood during your visit. It's our priority to make sure every patient feels comfortable, especially when it comes to hearing care. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
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Great experience, knowledgeable, friendly.
Response from the owner:Appreciate your positive feedback. Glad you found our team knowledgeable and friendly.
A hearing test this past week with Brandi... She explained all the steps in the hearing test before she proceeded and with each test. I was again informed that was going to happen and why.. At the end of the testing, she went through a graph with me. And explained the areas that we're good, and some not as good.. All is well.I will be back in a year or 2 have my hearing tested.. A great experience!!!
Response from the owner:We are so glad your experience was a positive one. That is what we strive for! See you again in the future!!
Very helpful experience. 👌
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I love the way you are treated. They made me feel good and explained everything I needed to know.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Curtis! It is always fun when you guys come see us! We look forward to you coming in the future!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review Robert! We are lucky to have awesome patients like you! We look forward to serving you in the future!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review John! We are so blessed to have awesome patients like you! We look forward to helping you on your journey to better hearing!!
It was fantastic
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Expert and friendly care! Clear explanation of test and best options.
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We are always greeted and get taken care of.
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I purchased new hearing aids and they work great. I was tested, fitted and have been in for an adjustment. All was super. Brandy and the rest of the people are great.
Response from the owner:Robert, we are so happy your new hearing aids are working great! Our patients happiness is our #1 priority! We look forward to serving you!
Great service and friendly staff! Highly recommend.
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Very friendly staff. Everyone was also very knowledgeable and did their best to get my new hearing aids fast. They called my insurance so I knew for sure what was covered. I highly recommend them!
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Very professional and pleasant to work with!
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Response from the owner:Thank you for your awesome review, Phil! It is always great to see you! We look forward to seeing you in the future!
…can’t say enough good things about Big Sky Audiology!…Dr Hayden & her team have done an amazing job assisting my husband thru all the adjustments that come with a hearing loss. Their Expertise…& kindness… along with a good dose of humor has made all the difference! If you or your loved one is struggling to hear…don’t hesitate to check these folks out…
Response from the owner:Vicki, thank you so much for your kind words! It is always a fun time when you guys come in and visit us! We are so grateful to be on this journey with Eric, changing his life with better hearing! We look forward seeing you soon!
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Very pleasant & efficient staff.
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This is Nancy Wester that recently went here to get a hearing test. Was a great experience and Brandy was awesome. The kindness and patience was appreciated. I have some time to make my mind up and have questions. Thanks again Nancy Wester
Response from the owner:thank you for your kind words, Nancy. We are excited to hear that you had a great experience with us. We think Brandy is pretty awesome too! Your kind words about our team and service are appreciated! We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Friendly staff and doctors. Great help in addressing any issues i had with my hearing aids.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your great review Scott! We're happy to hear that our team has provided you with excellent service and support. Your kind words motivate us to keep delivering the best care for our patients. We look forward to continuing to serve you!
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Tracey Hayden is thorough, smart and kind, in providing care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Barry! We're thrilled to hear you had a pleasant visit and found Dr. Hayden's advice helpful. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we look forward to serving you again!
Had an amazing experience. The staff was so professional and caring. Super knowledgeable of their products. Great over all experience.
Response from the owner:Thank you Allen for your review! We appreciate you and we look forward to seeing you again.
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As a patient of Big Sky Audiology for over two years, I can't speak highly enough of their exceptional service. Dr. Tracy Hayden's expert hearing evaluations are thorough and informative, ensuring that I am getting the best care possible. The staff are always warm and welcoming, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, they use the most up-to-date technology, which gives me confidence in their care. I highly recommend Big Sky Audiology for anyone seeking top-notch, compassionate hearing care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Brian! We are thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience at Big Sky Audiology. We strive to provide exceptional professionalism and care to all of our patients. Tina and Dr. Tracy Hayden are dedicated to ensuring that each patient feels valued and receives personalized care. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to serving you and others in the future.
Brandy was very efficient and knowledgeable. The adjustments and everything she did to my hearing aides made a 100% improvement on my hearing now. This has changed my life considerably for the better. I'm very grateful I found Brandy as my audiologist after having disappointing outcomes with three other audiologists. Her knowledge and understanding of my condition was phenomenal. Thank you very much Brandy. Sincerely, Jim Wise
Response from the owner:Jim, thank you so much for the kind words! Our provider Brandy is a rock star and we are delighted that she was able to improve your hearing aids! Your happiness is our #1 goal! We look forward to seeing you in the future!
The folks at Big Sky Audiology are the best. Always helpful and knowledgeable. They follow through with everything they say they're going to do. Top notch!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your fantastic review, Matthew! We're thrilled to hear that our team at Big Sky Audiology has provided you with excellent service and support. Your kind words motivate us to keep delivering the best for our patients. We look forward to continuing to serve you!
This is Brian Roat--(Mr. Sharon)--I am the client of Big Sky Audiology. A necessary visit to another provider resulted in my hearing aids being seriously out of adjustment. Tracy put everything back correctly--thank you! I've known Tracy since she was with Rehder--she impressed me then and continues to do so--I don't believe there is anyone better with hearing issues. The staff is friendly and very helpful as well.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Brian & Sharon, for your positive review! We are glad to hear that Tracy was able to fix the issues with your hearing aids and that you have had a great experience with her. It's also wonderful to know that the staff at Big Sky Audiology is friendly and helpful. We appreciate your continued trust in Tracy and our team for your hearing needs.
Feeling unsteady, dizzy and lightheaded was not fun. Kelsi Prosser Au.D. has really helped lessen these symptoms for me with vestibular treatments. She and the Staff are helpful and friendly.
Thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you for the review, Deb! We are delighted that Dr. Prosser was able to help you with your symptoms of unsteadiness and dizziness. Helping amazing patients like you is our favorite thing to do!
Thank you Tina fo making it r work.
Response from the owner:Thank you Erik for the review! We are happy to hear that Tina was able to help you! We look forward to seeing you again!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful 5-star rating! We're thrilled to know you had a great experience. Your support means a lot to us, and we look forward to serving you again soon.
Dr. Hayden and staff are awesome to work with. They have been taking care of all of my hearing loss needs for over 6 years.
I have used other hearing aid facilities in Billings but have not measured up Big Sky Audiology. They are prompt, courteous and professional.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, David! We appreciate your business and look forward to taking care of you for years to come!
Pleasant visit and good advice on choice of hearing aids.
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