Hearing Aids and Hearing Implants: Technologies for Better Hearing
Did you know there are different types of hearing aids designed to improve hearing in people with hearing loss? Traditional hearing aids, cochlear implants and bone-anchored implants each work in their own way and meet different needs. Here’s how to tell them apart.
Hearing aids: The Most Common Hearing Solution
Hearing aids are the most commonly recommended solution when hearing loss is diagnosed. They process and amplify sounds as they reach the ear.
They fit easily into your routine: you put them on in the morning and take them off at night.
Hearing aids come in many models and shapes. They are usually:
- worn on the ear;
- or hidden inside the ear canal.
When hearing aids are no longer enough, or aren’t suited to the type of hearing loss, there are other options: hearing implants.
Cochlear implants: for significant inner ear hearing loss
Who are they for? Cochlear implants are generally recommended for people who:
- have significant sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss in both ears;
- get little to no benefit from standard hearing aids.
How do they work? Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants are placed during surgery performed by an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT). The device has two parts:
- an internal part, placed under the skin behind the ear during surgery;
- an external part, which includes a sound processor.
The processor picks up sounds from the outside and sends them to electrodes placed inside the cochlea (inner ear). These electrodes then stimulate the auditory nerve, allowing sound to be perceived.
Bone-anchored implants: for outer or middle ear hearing loss
Who are they for? Bone-anchored implants are mainly intended for people whose hearing loss is caused by a problem in the outer or middle ear, such as:
- repeated ear infections;
- a malformation of the outer ear.
They can also help people with profound deafness in one ear, also known as single-sided or unilateral deafness.
How do they work? A bone-anchored implant usually requires a short, reversible surgery performed by an ENT. In some cases, non-surgical options are also available. The system includes:
- an implant, placed in the skull bone or just under the skin behind the ear during surgery;
- an external part, the sound processor.
The external processor captures and amplifies sounds, then turns them into vibrations. These vibrations travel directly to the cochlea (inner ear) through the implant and the bones of the skull. In other words, any hearing problem originating in the outer or middle ear is simply bypassed.
In summary:
- Hearing aids: the most commonly recommended solution when hearing loss is diagnosed. No surgery; you put them on in the morning and take them off at night.
- Cochlear implants: for significant sensorineural hearing loss in both ears, when hearing aids offer little to no benefit. Placed during surgery by an ENT.
- Bone-anchored implants: for hearing loss caused by an outer or middle ear problem, or for single-sided deafness. Short, reversible surgery, or a non-surgical option in some cases.
Which hearing solution is right for you?
Hearing loss affects everyone differently. Your audiologist is there to help you find the hearing solution that best suits your hearing needs and condition.
Have doubts about your hearing or that of a loved one? Don’t hesitate to see an audiologist, who can advise you based on your needs!
PAR Katherine Simoneau, audiologist
