Yes, your Audiologists at the Ear Institute of Chicago can create customized programs for use in different listening situations.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Earlens
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- How is Earlens different from conventional hearing aids?
Earlens directly vibrates the eardrum instead of relying on speakers to amplify sound. This enables Earlens to amplify sound across the broadest frequency range on the market, including higher frequencies that are important for speech understanding and sound quality.
- Are there different programs for various listening situations?
- What size battery does the Earlens hearing solution use?
The Processor has an internal rechargeable battery. Each night, you will simply dock the Processor in the included charger.
- Is there a battery in the lens that sits on my eardrum?
No, the Lens is powered by the energy emitted by the Ear Tip, and does not require a battery.
- Can I connect my Earlens to my smartphone?
Currently, Earlens is compatible with the Apple iPhone. You can take calls and stream music with your iPhone through your Earlens. To learn more, click here.
- Is the Lens permanent?
No, the Lens can be removed at any time by Dr. Battista or an Earlens-trained Ear, Nose and Throat Physician.
- Can you feel the Lens in your ear?
Just like any hearing technology, wearing the Lens takes some time to get used to. Most users feel a slight sensation when it is first placed on the eardrum, but that feeling goes away quickly.
- How does the Lens stay in place?
The custom design of the Lens makes it very stable. The Lens rests on the eardrum, much like a contact lens conforms to the eye. After the Lens is placed, you will be given instructions on how to apply mineral oil to the Lens to help keep it in place and working properly.
- Can I remove and reinsert Earlens?
The rechargeable behind-the-ear Processor with an attached Ear Tip can be removed and reinserted by the user. However, the Lens is designed for insertion and removal only by Dr. Battista or a trained Ear Nose and Throat physician.
- Can I shower or swim with Earlens on?
After removing the behind-the-ear Processor and Ear Tip, you can shower or swim as you normally would. If you swim regularly, we suggest using a pair of earplugs.
- How often do i need to see my doctor or audiologist with the Earlens hearing solution?
After the initial fitting and fine-tuning of your devices, we suggest that you see your Earlens Hearing Professional once a year or as needed.
- What is it like to wear the Earlens contact hearing solution?
Users report that Earlens delivers a unique sound – described as rich and natural. In a clinical study, 3 out of 4 users reported Earlens improved their hearing in noisy environments vs. their prior hearing aids.
- Can I get an MRI if I have an Earlens?
Yes. The lens on the eardrum must be removed prior to the MRI, however. Removal of the lens is done by your physician in the office. In only takes a few minutes to remove the lens. After the MRI, the lens can replaced easily in the office.