Hearing Aids

Completely in the canal (CIC)
These custom devices fit all the way in the ear canal, are usually not visable and are therefore cosmetically appealing. These tiny hearing aids are most suitable for mild to moderate hearing losses and may not be suitable for people with very small ear canals.

In the ear (ITE)
These devices fill most of the visable portion of the ear. These are best suited to moderate to severe hearing losses. They are ideal for those with limited dexterity because of their size.

In the canal (ITC)
These custom devices are slighly larger than CIC models and are partially visable in the outer ear. They are suitable for moderate losses while the power version is suitable for more severe hearing losses.

Behind the ear (BTE)
These devices consist of a receiver, microphone and amplifier that are housed in a unit that fits behind the ear. A tube connects the hearing aid to an earmould that is worn in the ear. These aid are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses.

Thin tube on the ear (OTE)
These instruments have shells similar to BTE devices but they are generally smaller and have a much thinner tube that connects to a dome shaped ear bud worn in the ear. Suitable for mild to hearing moderate losses.

Receiver in the canal (RIC)
These devices are similar in appearance to the OTE above but have a receiver that sits in the canal and an electrical wire that connects the receiver to the hearing aid. Suitable for mild, moderate or severe hearing losses.