Cochlear implant surgery is done to help people with severe to profound hearing loss by directly stimulating the auditory nerve.
 

The procedure:

• Performed under general anaesthetic

• The surgeon makes an incision behind the ear and creates a small opening into the cochlea (inner ear)

• A thin electrode array is carefully inserted into the cochlea

• The internal receiver-stimulator is placed under the skin behind the ear

• The incision is closed, and the implant is left to heal for a few weeks

• After healing, an external processor is fitted and programmed to send sound signals to the implant
   

The surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours. It’s usually a day surgery or may require an overnight stay. Cochlear implants can significantly improve hearing and speech understanding for suitable candidates.