
Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implantation is a technology that partially restores hearing in cases of severe hearing loss in which hearing aids are no longer useful. Candidacy is determined by specialized hearing tests done with your hearing aids in place. Once a candidate, most patients will do better with a cochlear implant.
A cochlear implant is surgical placement of a device that has an electrode that is inserted into the part of the inner ear that controls hearing, the cochlea. An external device that is worn behind the ear has a microphone that picks up sound and sends the signal to the internal device. An electrical signal is delivered to the hearing nerve that is then heard. There can be a period of months after the implant is placed in which the patient develops improved hearing with the device.
Considering a Cochlear Implant?
Cochlear implants partially restore hearing for patients who still have trouble with their hearing, even while wearing hearing aids. You and your ENT physician can determine if a cochlear implant is a good option for you. People with cochlear implants often hear significantly better than while wearing hearing aids.
What is a Cochlear Implant?
A cochlear implant is a medical device that is surgically placed in your ear. The implant has an electrode that is inserted into the part of the inner ear that controls hearing, the cochlea. An external microphone, worn behind the ear, picks up sound and sends a signal to the internal device. The electrical signal is delivered to the hearing nerve, which is then heard.
Will I hear better with a Cochlear Implant?
Once you have a short surgery to place the implant, there is a roughly one-month healing period before you come in to see Dr. Floreani, our audiologist, for device activation. There can be a period of months after the implant is placed in which the patient develops improved hearing with the device. In short, yes, you are likely to hear better with a cochlear implant, but it may take a few months as you adapt to the device.
It is imperative to your success that you wear the device consistently and that you be seen by Dr. Floreani and her audiology team several times within the first year. Visits during the first year following your procedure will ensure you have the appropriate adjustments made and provides an opportunity for you to voice any questions or concerns.
Who can get a Cochlear Implant?
The placement of a cochlear implant is a complex surgical procedure, meaning we have to do specialized testing to determine if you would be a good candidate. Patients of all ages (babies through adults) can receive a cochlear implant.
If you experience the following, you may be a potential candidate:
- Struggling to hear on the phone
- Difficulty understanding unfamiliar speakers
- Often withdraw from social events
- Regularly have to ask others to repeat themselves
- Feel as though you can hear but not understand
If your daily life is being negatively affected by your hearing, talk with your physician about whether a cochlear implant may be a solution for you.
What to expect when getting a Cochlear Implant
The first and most important step in the cochlear implant process is an evaluation. During this evaluation we complete a series of test that indicate whether or not you will be a good candidate for the procedure. This process takes approximately 90 minutes. Afterward the evaluation, you will meet with Dr. Slattery to discuss your results.
If you are a candidate, you will then choose which cochlear implant company you feel is right for you. The Cochlear Implant Center of Utah uses all 3 FDA approved cochlear implants. Once you have decided on a device, we will schedule a surgery date. It is typically a fairly short outpatient procedure.
After the procedure, our staff will schedule your follow-up appointments to ensure your implant is working correctly.
Why should I go to the Cochlear Implant Center of Utah?
Dr. Slattery and Dr. Floreani have years of experience helping patients improve their hearing. Our highly trained and caring staff are here to help you every step of the way, from the initial appointment to discuss your hearing options, through your surgery and device activation, and as your hearing continues to evolve. We care about your hearing and your quality of life, and we use the latest technology to get you the help you need to improve your hearing.

meet the team at the Cochlear Implant Center of Utah

Eric Slattery, M.D.

Dr. Jenna Floreani, Au.D.
Follow us



Your Health Starts Here
"*" indicates required fields