Q1. What is the ideal age for a child to get a cochlear implant?
Most experts recommend implantation between 9 and 12 months, though some latest Med-El approvals allow for 7 months in specific cases.
Q2. Does the surgery involve the brain?
No. The surgery involves the inner ear (cochlea) and the area just under the skin behind the ear. It does not involve brain surgery.
Q3. Is the evaluation process painful for the child?
Not at all. Most tests like ABR are done while the child is sleeping or under light sedation to ensure they stay still.
Q4. Can a child with a cochlear implant swim? Yes. Both Med-El and Cochlear offer “Aqua” accessories or waterproof processors that allow children to swim and bathe while hearing.
Q5. How long does the evaluation process take?
It typically takes a few weeks to a couple of months to complete all the audiological, medical, and speech assessments.
Q6. What if my child has some residual hearing?
Many children with residual hearing now qualify for “Electro-Acoustic Stimulation” (EAS), which combines a hearing aid for low frequencies and an implant for high frequencies.
Q7. Is the internal part of the implant permanent?
Yes, the internal component is designed to last a lifetime, though the external processor is usually upgraded every 5–7 years as technology improves.
Q8. Will my child need special schooling?
Many children who receive early implants are able to “mainstream” into regular schools with minimal support.
Q9. Are both ears implanted at once?
Bilateral implantation (both ears) is increasingly common and recommended to help children localize sound and hear better in noisy environments.
Q10. Where can I start the Candidacy criteria and evaluation process for paediatric cochlear implants in Kolkata?
C.C. Saha Ltd provides comprehensive support, from initial diagnosis and evaluation to post-operative mapping and therapy.
