25 July 2022
Getting a cochlear implant is a straightforward process designed to help you understand your options and feel confident at every step.
Start by contacting Attune on (07) 3837 0406 or implanthelp@attune.com.au
Our team will answer your questions and connect you with your local implant specialists.
At your first appointment, your audiologist will:
A cochlear implant surgeon will check your medical suitability. This may include:
A team of audiologists and surgeons will review your results to confirm whether a cochlear implant is right for you.
You’ll meet with your implant audiologist to finalise the plan, ask questions and get ready for your procedure.
Cochlear implant surgery takes around 1–2 hours under general anesthetic, with most people staying one night in hospital.
Around 5–14 days after surgery, your implant is activated—your first moment of hearing with your new device.
Over the next three months, your audiologist will:
You’re always welcome to bring a family member or friend to your appointments.
If a cochlear implant is recommended for you, we’ll also give you the chance to meet someone who already has one—so you can hear their story, ask questions, and get a real sense of what to expect.
Throughout the process, we’ll help you set realistic goals, understand your options, and choose the implant system that best suits your needs. At Attune, we offer several leading implant brands to make sure you have the right fit.
Our team works closely with highly experienced Ear, Nose and Throat surgeons, audiologists and psychologists. With their support, you can feel confident knowing you’re receiving expert, compassionate care every step of the way.
A range of funding options is available for cochlear implant recipients in Australia. Your clinical audiologist can help determine the most suitable pathway for your circumstances.
Funding for implant and speech processor:
If you are not eligible for these options, you may choose to self-fund or explore whether you meet the candidacy requirements for a publicly funded cochlear implant.
Funding for parts and ongoing maintenance:
Eligibility under the following categories can assist you with funding for your parts and maintenance for your cochlear implant speech processor:
Cochlear implantation is a routine hospital procedure performed by an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeon. The surgery typically takes one to two hours under general anaesthetic, with most patients staying overnight.
Your surgeon will discuss the procedure, associated risks, and any additional medical tests required to confirm your suitability for implantation. Before the operation, the surgical team will provide guidance on preparation and recovery.
Most patients are admitted on the day of surgery. After the procedure, a firm head bandage is applied, and you may continue using your hearing aid in the non‑implanted ear during recovery. It is important to understand that any remaining hearing in the implanted ear will likely be reduced following surgery and you will not be able to go back to wearing a hearing aid.
A follow-up appointment with your surgeon usually occurs one week post‑operation.
Depending on your occupation, many people return to work within one to two weeks. Your surgeon will advise you of any specific restrictions.
Close communication between your ENT surgeon and audiologist ensures you receive consistent, accurate information throughout the process. Attune works with highly skilled surgeons who have longstanding involvement in our cochlear implant program. Each case is reviewed in a multidisciplinary team meeting to ensure a thorough and clinically robust assessment.
About 5 to 14 days after your surgery, you will receive your external processor at Attune and hear sound through your cochlear implant for the first time. This is probably the most exciting and joyful moment of the whole process, and we encourage you to bring your loved ones to experience this with you!
Over the following three months, your Attune audiologist will:
Because cochlear implant hearing differs from natural hearing, regular listening practice is essential. Short, daily exercises—at home, while travelling, or during spare moments—help you build confidence and track progress. Involving family or friends can also help them better understand how to communicate with you and support your adjustment.
Auditory training can be completed using various apps on your phone, tablet, or computer. You will also receive a homework booklet with activities to complete with others.
Communication training focuses on practical strategies for everyday situations, including:
Your Attune audiologist will guide you through these areas to help you feel confident and comfortable in all listening environments.
The Attune Cochlear Implant Program has no waiting lists, so you will gain immediate access to expert advice and care.
Contact us on (07) 3837 0406 or email us on implanthelp@attune.com.au, and one of our caring team will help you with the next steps.