Hearing aids come in a variety of styles and models, with some being worn inside the ear, and some outside the ear. Most of them are hardly visible while being worn by the patient. They are also designed to treat a wide range of hearing loss – from mild to severe. The illustrations/descriptions below will give you a general overview of the types of hearing aids available. Should your hearing test results confirm that you need a hearing instrument, we will help you choose the technology that's right for you.
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These hearing aids are very discreet yet very powerful. The receiver/loudspeaker is placed in the ear canal therefore reducing the size of the hearing aid. RIC/RITEs are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Note that the RIC/RITE models are quite similar. The difference is the placement of the receiver in the ear.
The Invisible-In-Canal hearing aids are placed deep inside the ear so no part of it can be seen. IICs are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing loss but may not accommodate all ear canals. Hearing aid visibility will depend on ear canal size.
In-The-Ear hearing aids are custom-moulded to fit securely in an individual’s outer ear. ITEs are appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss, and are generally stronger and have less feedback than smaller aids.
Completely-In-The-Canal hearing aids fit within the ear canal, making them almost invisible. CICs offer excellent sound quality but may be difficult for some people to manipulate due to the instrument's small size. They are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.
In-The-Canal hearing aids are custom-moulded to fit almost completely within the ear canal. ITCs are appropriate for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.
Behind-The-Ear hearing aids rest behind the ear. Amplified sound is sent through a tube to an earmold that fits in the entry to the ear canal. BTEs often use larger batteries for longer life and have bigger amplifiers for stronger amplification. Most BTEs are compatible with assistive listening devices. BTEs are suitable for mild to profound hearing loss.
Open-Fit Behind-The-Ear hearing aids are designed to leave the ear canal open. They are perfect for people who dislike that “plugged ear” feeling. These aids are usually small and joined to the ear canal by a very slim tube, making them hard to see. They are not suitable for every hearing loss, but most adults with age-related loss find them very helpful and comfortable.