The honest answer: only a cochlear implant team can tell you. But you can learn how that decision gets made, so you walk into your first appointment ready.
Hearing aids and cochlear implants work differently
Hearing aids make sound louder. A cochlear implant works differently: a surgeon places a thin electrode array inside the cochlea, your inner ear’s hearing organ, and the implant sends signals to your hearing nerve. Because of that difference, some people who aren’t getting enough from hearing aids are referred for a cochlear implant evaluation.
Who decides, and how
A cochlear implant team, usually a surgeon and an audiologist, decides whether you’re a candidate. They’ll typically review your hearing history, test your hearing, and talk through your goals. Only they can say whether an implant is a good option for you.
We don’t list candidacy criteria here because they depend on your hearing, your health, and your implant team’s evaluation.
Signs it may be time to ask
Consider asking your hearing care provider about a cochlear implant evaluation if you have questions like:
- “My hearing aids don’t seem to help as much as they used to.”
- “I have trouble following conversations, even with hearing aids.”
- “I’m not sure whether I’d qualify.”
You don’t need to have the answers. That’s what the evaluation is for.
Common worries are normal
Many people hesitate. Some worry about surgery. Some worry about losing the hearing they have left. Others feel unsure about giving up natural hearing. Talk about every one of these with your team.
If surgery is on your mind, you can ask your surgeon whether they use robotic-assisted insertion. The iotaSOFT® Insertion System is designed to assist the surgeon by controlling the speed of electrode array insertion, and it’s designed to help preserve the delicate structures within your cochlea. It may give you peace of mind in your cochlear implant surgery. Read more in What is robotic-assisted cochlear implant insertion?
Hear from others
Our free webinar recordings feature surgeons, audiologists, and cochlear implant recipients, including a session titled Hearing Loss Solutions: Is a Cochlear Implant Right for You? with Michigan Ear Institute.
Frequently asked questions
Can I find out online if I’m a candidate?
No. Only a cochlear implant team can determine candidacy after an evaluation. This page can help you prepare questions for that visit.
Who should I talk to first?
Start with your audiologist or ear, nose, and throat doctor, or contact a cochlear implant center directly. You can find a clinic that offers iotaSOFT.
Can children get a cochlear implant with iotaSOFT?
iotaSOFT is intended for use in ages 4 and up. Your child’s cochlear implant team decides whether an implant, and iotaSOFT, is right for your child.
Does iotaSOFT work with my implant brand?
iotaSOFT may be used for insertions with all 3 cochlear implant manufacturers. Ask your team which implant they recommend.
Will a cochlear implant restore my hearing?
Individual results and outcomes can vary. Your cochlear implant team can explain what to expect in your situation.
Ready to take the next step? Find a clinic.
hearing, advanced.®
Individual results and outcomes can vary. Talk to your doctor to see if the iotaSOFT Insertion System is the right choice for you. Safety information: iotamotion.com/resources.
Indication: The iotaSOFT® Insertion System is intended to aid the surgeon in placement of cochlear implant electrode arrays into a radiographically normal cochlea by controlling the speed of implant insertion. The iotaSOFT® Insertion System is intended for use in cochlear implant patients ages 4 years and older during cochlear implant procedures using either a round window or cochleostomy approach.