Cochlear Implant Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions

Before having cochlear implant surgery, you may have questions about what to expect for the surgery, recovery, and initial activation of the cochlear implant. Hundreds of thousands of people have undergone the procedure all around the world, and it is natural to experience a wide range of emotions, including the anxiety that may accompany any medical procedure and the fear of the unknown. Surgery is a necessary, but brief, part of the process, and the more you know about cochlear implant surgery and recovery, the more comfortable you will be with the process. Here are some frequently asked questions about cochlear implant surgery and recovery. 

No. The internal device, the cochlear implant itself, will be implanted during surgery, and then you will go home and be allowed to heal. You will begin hearing with your cochlear implant following a visit to your audiologist (typically two to four weeks after surgery) when the sound processor is “turned on” or activated. 

Cochlear implantation is relatively simple and minimally invasive. In most cases, implantation can be done on an outpatient basis. This means you get to go home the same day (depending on country and healthcare regulations). The procedure itself typically takes two to four hours, with additional time in the preparation and recovery areas, because the implantation is done under general anesthesia.

After the surgery, you should be provided with post-implantation guidelines, including bathing and bandage treatment instructions, medication procedures, and possible activity restrictions. Adults often return to work and typical daily activities within a few days after implantation. 

Yes. It’s a good idea to have someone with you on the day of surgery to help with any communication needs when you are not able to use your hearing aid, and when you are recovering from the procedure. You may want to bring a pencil and paper or a dry erase board with you to assist with communication before and after the surgery. Most adults are able to go home the same day of the procedure, so someone should be with you to help you understand the recovery instructions, accompany you home, and fill any necessary prescriptions.

As with any surgery, you should keep the surgical site clean and dry for some time immediately afterwards. But once you have healed, you can swim and shower with your implant. The surgically implanted internal device is placed underneath the skin, making it waterproof. The external sound processor is similar to a hearing aid in that it should be removed prior to taking a shower or swimming, unless you have chosen a waterproof option. Advanced Bionics offers waterproof options for your sound processor, allowing you to hearing both when in the shower and when swimming.

No. There is no upper age limit for receiving a cochlear implant. As long as you are medically healthy and able to undergo the surgery, you may benefit from the procedure. Your doctor is the best person to tell you whether you are a good candidate for a cochlear implant.