Hearing Aid Styles
Hearing aids are available in a range of styles. Each style is designed to meet different requirements based on your hearing loss and anatomy. After your hearing evaluation, Dr. Aviles will explain the advantages and benefits associated with each hearing aid style suitable for your particular hearing loss and lifestyle. She will help you determine what style of hearing aid makes the most sense with your hearing loss, listening environments and budget.
Invisible in the Canal (IIC)
The newest in custom hearing aid styles is a micro device that fits deep into the ear canal, completely hidden from view. Invisible or IIC hearing aids are ideal for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.
Completely in-the-canal (CIC)
This customer hearing aid model is molded to fit completely inside your ear canal. The outer faceplate of the shell is barely visible in the ear canal. The CIC is a very discreet option that can fit a mild to moderate hearing loss.
In-the-canal (ITC)
ITC instruments are custom built for your ear, so they fit snugly and comfortably. Only the face of the device extends into the outer ear, while the body extends into your ear canal. The slightly larger design offers extra power, making the ITC a great selection for mild to mildly severe hearing loss.
In-the-ear (ITE)
This type of hearing aid fits snugly inside the bowl-shaped area of the outer ear and can be used to treat mild to severe hearing loss. Although ITE hearing aids are more visible, they are generally easier to insert and adjust and have a longer battery life than other, smaller hearing aids.
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
The Mini receiver-in-the-canal BTE (RIC) is the smallest RIC ever designed and is virtually unseen when worn. The Mini RIC might be tiny but it packs a punch when it comes to performance, style and one of a kind features.
Power behind-the-ear (BTE)
The BTE is a popular style worn behind the ear that connects to an earmold that rests inside the outer ear. Sound is conducted from the hearing aid into the earmold. Although this can be the largest type of hearing aid, it is also the most powerful and often the easiest to adjust. BTE hearing aids are appropriate for treating almost all types of hearing loss.