Recovery from bone conduction implant surgery
Learn about caring for yourself or a loved one after surgery and find out what to expect during recovery.
What you'll find on this page
- Information about your procedure.
- How to care for yourself or your loved one after surgery.
- When you can expect to return to work and other activities.
Preparing yourself for surgery
As your surgery approaches, you may experience a range of emotions.
Understanding what to expect and how best to recover from surgery will help give you confidence as you look forward to life with your new hearing.
After your procedure
After bone conduction implant surgery, medical staff will apply a bandage to protect the incision.
You will likely have a bandage after surgery for a day or two. You will be given instructions on how to care for the implant site after the bandage is removed.
When the bandage is removed, there may be some swelling around the incision. Once it heals and the swelling disappears, you may have a slightly raised bump where surgeons have placed the implant. This area is typically covered by hair.
It's important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding rest and recovery after bone conduction implant surgery.
How to care for yourself or your loved one after surgery
Recovering from your surgery is generally straight forward, but it will take time. Support from family and friends is important as you prepare for life with your new hearing.
Here are some tips to help you recover
- Follow your doctor’s instructions and take medication as directed.
- Arrange for someone to take you home from hospital as you won’t be able to drive.
- Ask a friend or family member to help you for a day after your surgery so you can recuperate.
- You should be able to shower and wash your hair one week after surgery, as instructed by your doctor, being careful to keep water out of your ear.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink lots of water to promote healing.
How long does it take to recover?
Your surgeon will want your incision to heal before you are fitted with your sound processor and it's programmed for the first time. This typically takes 2-4 weeks for Baha® implants.
Many people return to work or normal activities within a few days after surgery, but you may want to give yourself at least a week to recover.
Your doctor will tell you when it’s safe to return to your activities. Most doctors advise against lifting even moderately heavy weights for a time after surgery.
More information
Disclaimer
Please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome. Always read the instructions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.
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Views expressed are those of the individual.