Cochlear Implant Surgery
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Cochlear implant surgery is used to place a cochlear implant in one or both ears. A cochlear implant is an electronic device that helps improve hearing in people who have severe hearing loss. A cochlear implant will not restore normal hearing, but it may help you better understand speech and lip movements. Have any ear pain or redness checked right away. You may have an ear infection that needs immediate care.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- Clear fluid leaks from your ear or nose.
- Your face is numb, or you cannot move parts of your face.
- You have a severe headache.
- Your neck feels painful or stiff.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have pain and redness in your ear.
- You have a fever, chills, and feel weak and achy.
- Your wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- You feel dizzy or have nausea, or you are vomiting.
- You feel more sleepy than usual.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Wound care:
Carefully wash the wound with soap and water. Dry the area and put on a new, clean bandage as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty.
Vaccines:
A cochlear implant increases your risk of meningitis. You will need a pneumococcal vaccine. Ask which vaccine is right for you and when you should receive it.
Speech therapy:
You will go to training to learn how to listen and understand sounds using the cochlear implant. If you were born deaf, you will have to learn to understand what the sounds mean. An auditory or speech therapist will help you. The therapist can also help you speak clearly. You may have lost your hearing at an older age. Therapy can help you interpret sounds coming from the cochlear implant.
Follow up with your surgeon or ear, nose, and throat specialist as directed:
You may need to return to have your stitches removed. You will also learn how to care for your cochlear implant. You will need regular checkups to make sure your cochlear implant works properly. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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