What is a cochlear implant (bionic ear)?

A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted device for the hearing-impaired. It is the first medical technology able to functionally restore a human sense - hearing.

Unlike a hearing aid that amplifies sound to make it loud enough for an impaired ear, a cochlear implant bypasses the damaged area and sends sound signals directly to the auditory nerve. A cochlear implant consists of an internal and an external component.

When is a cochlear implant considered?

What is a Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA)?

A BAHA is a hearing device which clips onto a small titanium screw that is embedded in the skull behind the ear.

Sound is converted to vibration which is transmitted to the inner ear through the skull bones. A Bone Anchored Hearing Aid consists of an internal and an external component.

When is a Bone Anchored Hearing Aid implant considered?