Hearing loss can be a frustrating—and isolating—experience. With this in mind, cochlear implants have become a life-changing solution for folks with hearing loss, providing hope and accessibility to the world of sound.
As an audiologist, I've seen firsthand the difference that cochlear implants can make in a patient’s life.
While this device can radically impact a person’s everyday life, potential cochlear implant candidates express some concerns about the hearing aid’s visibility.
That’s where innovation comes into play. With new technological advancements, invisible cochlear implants are a new alternative on the horizon.
This article will discuss the possibility of invisible cochlear implants and explore their effectiveness, cost, and availability.
Traditional Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants can be life-changing for patients who no longer benefit from hearing aids. I've worked with many cochlear implant patients who have improved their quality of life, enjoying conversations with friends and family again.
It's important to note that cochlear implants are not a quick fix and do involve a rehabilitation period, during which the brain learns how to process hearing electrically and adjusts to the implant. If you want to learn more, check out our full guide on cochlear implants here.
Are cochlear implants visible? Can you make them invisible?
Traditional cochlear implants are visible behind the ear and consist of an external sound processor and internal electrodes surgically implanted in the inner ear. Depending on hair length, the device may be more or less visible. Speech processors nowadays have several options, including behind-the-ear and off-the-ear options.
Example 1 — Kanso 2, off-the-ear processor
Example 2 — Nucleus behind the ear processor
Truly invisible cochlear implants are now a new option on the horizon. These implants work the same way as visible cochlear implants, but the external sound processor is hidden under the skin, making the device virtually undetectable (yes, really!).
In 2022, Envoy Medical received FDA approval for a clinical trial of its Acclaim cochlear implant, a completely internal cochlear implant. This device is currently investigational and available only in select clinics as part of the clinical trial over the next few years.
The Esteem Middle Ear implants are an example of an entirely internal hearing device that came to market after a rigorous clinical trial. While different from a cochlear implant, this is an example of an invisible, implanted hearing device.
What do cochlear implants cost?
The cost of cochlear implants varies depending on the manufacturer, hospital, surgeon, insurance, and aftercare. In the United States, a single cochlear implant can cost between $50,000 and $100,000.
But, many insurance providers and healthcare organizations offer coverage for cochlear implants, reducing the cost for patients. Also keep in mind that invisible cochlear implants are not yet covered by insurance.
Where to start?
If you are considering a cochlear implant, speak to a cochlear implant audiologist to see if you are a candidate. Anyone considering cochlear implantation should first trial hearing aids.
Cochlear implant candidacy is evaluated through several types of audiological testing, physician evaluation, and imaging. If you'd like to learn more about the process from the patient's perspective, reach out to one of the manufacturers. For example, Cochlear Americas can connect you with a CI recipient who can help answer questions about what the process is like.
Final Thoughts
Invisible cochlear implants could revolutionize how we think about hearing technology. They provide day and night hearing support without the need for charging and can be used in a variety of different environments making them ideal for active lifestyles.
As they become available, invisible cochlear implants will offer an additional treatment option to those with severe to profound hearing.
