Invisible hearing aids can be a blessing if you want something small and discreet, but they’re not the only style available. Hearing aids come in many different models and styles, so you can be sure to choose one that’s right for you and your hearing needs. Hearing aid styles include invisible-in-the-canal (IIC), completely-in-canal (CIC), in-the-canal (ITC), in-the-ear (ITE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), receiver-in-the-ear (RITE), and behind-the-ear (BTE). The first three styles, invisible-in-the-canal, completely-in-canal, and in-the-canal, are considered invisible hearing aids which come with several pros and cons. Here’s a closer look at what invisible hearing aids offer so you can find the model and style that’s right for you.
Invisible hearing aid models
Hearing aids typically come in three models that determine the price and features: basic, mid-range, and premium. Most models offer digital sound processing, feedback cancellation, and multiple hearing programs, but only premium models automatically adjust to different hearing environments. Basic models will work for people with inactive lifestyles while people with active lifestyles may require a premium model.
Here are some pros and cons of invisible hearing aids to help you determine if invisible hearing aids will work for your lifestyle and hearing needs.
Invisible hearing aid pros
- Discreet and easy to hide
- Position inside of the ear makes it easier to use telephones and headsets
- No bulky external hardware
- Lightweight and unnoticeable inside ear
- Custom molded for a perfect fit
- Have a more natural sound quality
- Reduced “occlusion effect”
- Require less power
- Comfortable for most wearers
- Outer ear protects them and makes it less likely to pick up outside noise
- Typically come in a variety of flesh tones
Invisible hearing aid cons
- Not suited for all ear shapes
- Work best for users with wide ear canals
- Not suited for people with severe hearing loss
- Need batteries changed more often
- Have limited features
- Controls are harder to see, feel, and manipulate
- Batteries can be challenging to replace
- Lack ability to pick up sounds from all directions
- Might be easy to misplace or lose
If you have hearing loss and think you need hearing aids, work with your doctor or hearing specialist to determine if invisible hearing aids are right for you.
