What happens after the cochlear implantation surgery?
Device Programming: After a healing period of about 1 month, the patient returns to the Cochlear Implant Center at UCSF to have the externally worn speech processor programmed. The speech processor converts speech into a special code for each user. Each program is customized for the user.
Testing: Implanted patients are asked to return to the Cochlear Implant Center at UCSF at regular intervals for device checks and re-evaluation. During these visits, the implant and equipment are checked and performance is measured. Re-testing generally occurs at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months following the initial device fitting. Thereafter, patients come to the clinic for semi-annual or annual evaluations.