Unlike a traditional hearing aid, which amplifies sound, a cochlear implant bypasses the portion of the inner ear that is damaged and stimulates the auditory nerve directly with electric pulses. The pulses travel on to the brain, which interprets them as sound.
You have been seen by a Duke provider for otolaryngology (ENT) care within the last three years or you need to reschedule an appointment.
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919-684-3834Cochlear Implant Surgery
A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted prosthetic device that can improve your hearing. These devices are best suited for people with significant hearing loss in one or both ears who find it difficult to communicate, even with hearing aids. Almost all cochlear implant recipients enjoy significant long-term improvements in both their hearing and their ability to communicate, with minimal -- if any -- complications.
How Does a Cochlear Implant Work?
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What to Expect
Cochlear Implant Evaluation
To determine whether you are a candidate for surgery, our audiologists follow a thorough evaluation plan. Your care team will be there to guide you every step of the way.
Preparing for Surgery
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that all cochlear implant recipients receive anti-pneumococcal vaccinations before surgery to protect against potential infection (for example, meningitis). Our doctors will explain the timing and types of vaccines that are advised, and you will need to obtain these from your primary care physician.
The Procedure
Cochlear implantation is performed as outpatient surgery under general anesthesia. The procedure usually lasts about two hours. Only the internal component will be placed during surgery. You may go home the same day, and recovery time is usually one to two weeks.
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Our Locations
Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.
After Surgery
Implant Activation
After surgery, your ear needs time to heal before your cochlear implant can be turned on. This usually takes one to two weeks. Following a successful post-operative check-up with your surgeon, you’ll return to your audiologist, who will attach the external component and activate the implant.
Fine-Tuning the Device
Hearing with a cochlear implant takes time because your brain must learn to interpret sound in a new way. Progress happens gradually, with guidance and support from your care team. You’ll be asked to attend audiology appointments at three months, six months (as needed), and twelve months after activation. During these visits, your audiologists will fine-tune your cochlear implant settings to help you hear as clearly and comfortably as possible.
Aural Rehabilitation
As part of the follow-up process, you will also meet with our speech-language pathologists to develop listening and communication skills to support you on this journey of hearing. Aural rehabilitation is a critical component in reaching your full hearing potential.
New Patient Appointment
Why Choose Duke
Experts in Cochlear Implant Surgery
Our surgeons are neurotologists, meaning they are board-certified in neurotology, which is the study and treatment of neurological ear disorders. Duke neurotologists performed some of the first cochlear implant surgeries in the United States, and our research has contributed to major advances that have resulted in superior care and outcomes.
No Upper Age Limit
Our neurotologists have performed this surgery on adults in their 90s. At Duke, there is no upper age limit for cochlear implants.
Long-Term Support
A dedicated care team sticks with you from your initial evaluation through your surgery, device activation, and ongoing follow up. Cochlear implants are designed for long-term success, and the technology continues to improve. In many cases, device updates can be made without the need for additional surgery.
Team Approach
Our providers, who have extensive training in cochlear implantation and continue to advance their knowledge through ongoing training and research, put you at the center of your care team. Each team member prioritizes your preferences and plays an important role in guiding you through every stage of the cochlear implant process. Together, we provide coordinated support to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Nationally Ranked Hospital for Ear, Nose and Throat
Where you receive your care matters. Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. That is why our ear, nose, and throat (ENT) program is nationally ranked among the nation's best, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2025-2026.
This page was medically reviewed on
04/15/2026
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