Audiology Doctors Offering Cochlear Implants Near Downingtown, PA
The experienced team at Hearing Smile Professionals is dedicated to providing the most advanced hearing care at our clinic near Downingtown, Pennsylvania. Hearing deficits can vary widely from patient to patient. In addition to hearing aids, we offer cochlear implants, which can be particularly beneficial for those with severe to profound hearing loss.
Cochlear implants are sophisticated electronic devices that can be used to address sensorineural hearing loss, which occurs when tiny hair cells in the inner ear (cochlea) are damaged. The damage prevents sound waves from reaching the auditory nerve and being heard. Because cochlear implants bypass the damaged portion of the inner ear and stimulate the auditory nerve directly, they can be a good option for an individual who is not helped by hearing aids.
How Do Cochlear Implants Work?
Cochlear implants have four main parts: a microphone, speech processor, transmitter/receiver, and electrode array. After being implanted in the inner ear by a surgeon during an outpatient procedure, the interior components (transmitter/receiver and electrode array) are controlled by the exterior components (microphone and speech processor), which are worn behind the ear like a traditional hearing aid.
Cochlear implants do not restore normal hearing. Instead, they help individuals with severe to profound hearing loss learn to interpret speech and other sounds. After an initial adjustment period, this skill can take some time to acquire—much like learning a new language—because the sounds transmitted by cochlear implants are considerably different than those heard naturally. Some ways to train the brain to hear with cochlear implants include formal auditory training and listening games designed for children. Nearly all cochlear implant users report a significant improvement in their ability to communicate.
Are Cochlear Implants Right for You?
If you would like to find out if you are a good candidate for cochlear implants, contact Hearing Smile Professionals today to schedule an appointment with an audiology doctor at our office near Downingtown, PA.
