For many people, discretion is an important factor when choosing a hearing aid. If you’re looking for a hearing solution that is both effective and discreet, invisible hearing aids may be worth considering.
Also known as custom hearing aids, these devices are individually designed to fit the unique shape of your ear. During your appointment, your Audiologist will take an impression of each ear, which is then used to create hearing aids tailored specifically to you. Because they fit inside the ear canal, custom hearing aids are often referred to as “invisible” hearing aids.
Types of Invisible Hearing Aids
There are four main types of custom hearing aids available:
In-the-Ear (ITE)
ITE hearing aids sit within the outer portion of the ear and are custom-made for comfort and fit. While they are discreet, they are generally more visible than smaller custom hearing aid styles.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
ITC hearing aids are smaller than ITE devices and are designed to sit partly within the ear canal. They offer a more discreet appearance while remaining easy to handle and maintain.
Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC)
CIC hearing aids fit entirely within the ear canal, making them one of the most discreet hearing aid options available. However, individuals with particularly narrow ear canals may not be suitable candidates for this style.
Invisible-in-canal (IIC)
IIC hearing aids are similar to CICs, but sit deeper into the ear canal. This type of hearing aid is perhaps the most discreet device there is. As with CIC aids, individuals with particularly narrow ear canals may not be suited to this type of hearing device.
Once you have had a hearing test with your Audiologist, they will be able to talk you through the options you have for your specific hearing loss and ear size / shape.
Benefits of Invisible Hearing Aids
Invisible hearing aids offer a range of advantages, including:
- Discreet appearance – Their small size and in-ear design make them virtually unnoticeable.
- Custom comfort – Each device is moulded specifically to your ear for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Natural sound quality – Many users report that custom hearing aids provide a more natural listening experience.
- Reduced wind noise – Being positioned inside the ear helps protect the microphones from wind interference.
- Greater convenience for glasses wearers – With no device sitting behind the ear, there is less risk of dislodging the hearing aid when removing glasses.
- Bluetooth connectivity – Many modern custom hearing aids offer Bluetooth technology, allowing you to stream phone calls, television audio, and other media directly to your hearing aids.
Things to Consider Before Choosing Invisible Hearing Aids
While invisible hearing aids offer many benefits, they may not be the ideal solution for everyone.
Due to their compact size, custom hearing aids can be more challenging to insert, remove, and maintain than larger hearing aid styles such as Behind-the-Ear (BTE) or Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) devices. If you experience dexterity issues, arthritis, or reduced hand strength, it is important to discuss this with your Audiologist before making a decision.
In addition, the size and shape of your ear canal, as well as the degree of your hearing loss, may influence which hearing aid styles are suitable for you.
Book a Hearing Consultation
If you’re interested in learning more about invisible hearing aids or would like professional advice on the most suitable hearing solution for your needs, our experienced Audiologists are here to help.
Contact us today to arrange a hearing consultation and discover whether custom hearing aids are the right choice for you.
