The Patient Journey

Your first appointment is with one of our implant audiologists and usually takes about 90 minutes. We will:

• ask about your hearing, health and everyday listening challenges
• test your hearing, and how well you understand speech with your hearing aids
• talk about what a cochlear implant can and can’t do
• explain costs and funding options

If an implant may help, we’ll refer you to one of our ENT surgeons. Your GP can refer you for this assessment, or you can contact us to ask about booking.

Next, you’ll see an ENT surgeon who performs cochlear implant surgery. They will:

• check your ears and review your medical history
• arrange scans, usually a CT and/or MRI, to look at your inner ear
• explain the operation, its risks and the recovery
• talk through the costs

You’re welcome to bring a family member, and there’s no pressure to decide on the day.

Cochlear implant surgery is done under general anaesthetic and usually takes 1 to 3 hours. Most people go home the next day.

The surgeon places the implant under the skin behind your ear and gently inserts a thin electrode into the cochlea. The implant is tested before you wake up. Most people return to light activities within about 1-2 weeks.

Within a week of surgery, or even the next day, your sound processor will be fitted and switched on.

Sound may seem strange or robotic at first. This is normal. Your brain needs time and practice to get used to the new signal.

In the first year, you’ll have regular appointments to fine-tune your processor. This is called mapping. You’ll also do listening practice to help your brain adjust

After the first year, you’ll usually see us once or twice a year. At these visits we:

• check your hearing and how you’re going with your implant
• fine-tune your processor
• review your hearing aid in the other ear, if you have one
• talk about upgrades, accessories and spare parts

Between appointments, we can also help by phone, telehealth or Remote Assist. This can save you a trip to the clinic.