Struggling with hearing loss can be a challenge, but luckily there is no need to suffer in silence. Hearing aids come in all shapes and sizes so that whatever your level of hearing impairment, you can enjoy the benefits they offer. While staying up-to-date with the rapidly advancing hearing aid technology can be an intimidating task, we've got you covered! Let us help keep you informed and in control of your hearing.
Discover which type of aid will work best for you by learning more about the latest styles and options available:
Extended-wear invisible hearing aids are comfortably placed in the ear canal by a Lyric trained Audiologist and can be worn 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for up to 4 months at a time. No surgery or anesthesia is required. They are kept in during showers and other activities, which makes them one of the most convenient models available today.
Recommended invisible extended-wear hearing aid:
Invisible-In-The-Canal (IIC) hearing aids are custom devices made from a 3D image or silicone earmold of the patient’s ear canal. They fit comfortably within the canal, making them completely invisible when worn. They are small and discreet, making them perfect for those who wish to keep their devices discreet. In terms of hearing loss, these small devices are best suited to treat mild to moderate hearing losses.
Recommended IIC hearing aid:
- Oticon Own IIC
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are also custom devices made from 3D images or a silicone casting of the patient’s ear canal. These models are slightly more visible when placed in the ear but are considered "nearly invisible" for most users. For some users, these models are easier to handle and insert when compared to the IIC models.
Recommended CIC hearing aids:
- Oticon Own CIC
- Resound CIC
- Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium
In-The-Canal (ITC) hearing aids provide an larger alternative to CIC models as they tend to be easier to handle by those with dexterity problems or poor vision. They are larger than CIC models yet still sufficiently discreet not to be seen when in place in the ear canal. When compared to CIC models, these hearing aids typically have a few more features available, like wireless connectivity and on-board controls. They also can fit more severe hearing losses than the smaller varieties (up to moderately severe or even severe in some cases).
Recommended ITC hearing aids:
- Oticon Own ITC
- Resound ITC
- Phonak Virto P-312
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) hearing aids provide comfort along with discretion as the main components sit outside the ear canal, but remain hidden by being tucked away behind the ears. There is also a thin wire that transmits the enhanced sound signal into the ear canal. RICs typically come with rechargeable options and can even be paired with Bluetooth enabled cell phones for added convenience when taking calls or streaming audio directly into your ears without needing wires or headphones. These models are very adaptable and can be used for people with mild to severe levels of hearing loss.
Recommended RIC hearing aids:
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids sit atop your ears and connect via hollow tubes connecting to custom molds fitted into your ear canals; typically used by patients suffering from severe levels of hearing loss or children whose ears may grow at different rates over time, meaning BTEs will always remain fitting them perfectly no matter what size changes occur during growth spurts.
Recommended BTE hearing aids:
- Phonak Naida Paradise
- Oticon More mini-BTE R
- Oticon More mini-BTE T
- Signia Motion Charge&Go X
If you think you may have hearing problems, there are a variety of options available today to address the issue. The best way to seek treatment is through experienced audiologists who will be able to create personalized plans that best suit your individual needs and lead to improved communication, cognitive health and quality of life.
