Implant surgery and preparation
Making the decision to get a hearing implant can be life-changing. Understanding what to expect during and after surgery can help you or your child feel more prepared and confident.
It's natural to have questions before a cochlear implant or bone conduction surgery. Below you'll find information about the procedure, recovery and activation process, along with some suggested questions to ask your surgeon or clinical team.
Many people undergo hearing implant surgery each year and for most, it is a routine outpatient procedure performed by experienced surgical teams.
What to expect during a cochlear implant surgery
Cochlear implant surgery is fairly routine and typically performed under general anaesthesia. Here's what you can expect during the procedure:
- The surgeon makes a small incision behind the ear.
- The implant is placed under the skin and the electrode array is inserted into the cochlea (inner ear).
- The surgical team tests the implant to confirm it is working.
- The incision is closed, often with dissolvable stitches.
How long does a cochlear implant operation take?
Cochlear implant surgery is typically a same-day, outpatient procedure and takes around two hours per ear.
What happens after my cochlear implant operation?
After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery area while the anaesthesia wears off. You may experience some pressure or discomfort around the implant area at this time. A bandage will likely be wrapped around the head to protect the incision site before you go home. Once the implant area has healed, your sound processor will be activated, usually a few weeks after surgery but your individual situation may vary based on your individual circumstances and your hearing care professional will guide you. This is when you begin hearing through your cochlear implant.
Is cochlear implant surgery safe?
Cochlear implant surgery has been performed for decades and is considered a well-established procedure. Most people return home the same day and resume normal activities within a short period.
Cochlear implant recipients talk about the cochlear implant surgery. They share their initial thoughts and concerns, their surgery experience and the impact it has had on their life.
Cochlear implant information guide
Every hearing journey is unique. Our free guide answers common questions and helps you explore your options.
Bone conduction implant surgery
Bone conduction implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure taking less than an hour. Cochlear offers two bone conduction systems:
- The Osia® System
Your surgeon will place an Osia implant under the skin behind the ear, attached to the bone via another small titanium implant (BI300). This implant fuses to the bone over time through a natural process called osseointegration. - The Baha® System
Your surgeon will place a BI300 Implant behind your ear and attach either an abutment (Baha Connect System) or a magnetic connection (Baha Attract System).
Both surgeries are routine procedures and can take place under local or general anaesthesia.
What happens after my bone conduction implant operation?
Most people are back to their normal activities within a few days. You may choose to take up to a week off work to allow the incision site to heal. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. Your doctor will then let you know when your sound processor can be fitted, which may be a few weeks after surgery.
Learn more about recovery from bone conduction surgery
Questions for your surgeon
Here are some of the more common queries that patients and parents raise before hearing implant surgery. Getting clear answers can provide reassurance and help you feel confident in your decision.
:
- Will I be able to hear immediately after surgery?
- Will I be able to talk on the phone right away?
- Will I be able to listen to music?
- How long does a hearing implant surgery take?
- Is the surgery painful?
- Where will the incision be made?
- Will my hair be shaved?
- Will there be swelling?
- What does the recovery process involve?
- Are there any risks I should consider?
- What should I wear and bring with me?
- Should I avoid eating or drinking before coming in?
- Will I stay in the hospital overnight?
Have more questions?
Get in touch with the Cochlear Engagement Team. We provide a free information service to help you understand your options and feel confident about your next steps.
Contact us
Disclaimer
Please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome. Always follow the directions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.
For a full list of Cochlear’s trademarks, please visit our Terms of Use page.
Views expressed are those of the individual. Consult your health professional to determine if you are a candidate for Cochlear technology.
In Australia, Cochlear™ Nucleus® implant systems are intended for the treatment of moderately severe to profound hearing loss.
In Australia, Baha® bone conduction implant systems are intended for the treatment of moderate to profound hearing loss.
In Australia, the Cochlear™ Osia® System is indicated for patients with conductive, mixed hearing loss and single-sided sensorineural deafness (SSD) aged 5 years and above with up to 55 decibels sensorineural hearing loss. Patients should have sufficient bone quality and quantity to support successful implant placement. Surgery is required to use this product. Any surgical procedure carries risk.
For Cochlear™ Nucleus®, Osia® and Baha® systems: This product is not available for purchase by the general public. For information on funding and reimbursement please contact your health care professional.
Any testimonial featured on this website is intended for an Australian audience only.