First, it is important to remember that there is not just one hearing aid to help you hear well. There are choices to be made both by you and Dr. Martine. It is our job to help you understand your hearing loss, your potential for hearing better and to guide you through the process. The hearing aid that works great for Mr. William's hearing loss may be totally inappropriate for your loss. "One size does not fit all." Audiologists are the professionals most appropriately trained to help you make these choices.
Behind-The-Ear (BTE)
This style places the circuitry behind the ear, and is designed to meet the mid range of hearing impairment from mild to profound. The BTE is an excellent choice for those with draining ears, waxy ears and small ear canals.
In-The-Ear (ITE)
This style is custom made fit your entire ear with no wires or tubes attached. The size of the ITE is a good choice for those with dexterity and numbness problems in the hands or fingers. Directional microphones can easily be mounted on this model.
In-The-Canal (ITC)
This style offers more concealment than the ITE. It fits down in the canal of your ear and is relatively unnoticeable. The ITC is an excellent alternative for those who cannot be fitted with a CIC due to ear size and hand dexterity.
Completely-In-The-Canal
This style offers the ultimate in concealment. However, this style requires good hand dexterity. The smaller size has greater battery consumption and is more delicate, requiring more repairs.
Open Fit (Open)
This style combines the occlusion-free properties of a BTE hearing aid with the sound quality and cosmetic benefits of a CIC. This style has proven quite effective in eliminating the plugged-up feeling individuals get from wearing traditional hearing aids.