Q: If I choose bilateral implantation now, will I lose the ability to benefit from future technology?

A:  Scientific strides in science have been made over the past 20 years and further discoveries and improvements are likely to happen over the next 20 years.  Although cochlear implant technology is expected to evolve and improve over time, the benefits of early bilateral implantation may outweigh any benefits or features associated with future technologies.

It’s quite likely that, due to the plasticity of the developing auditory nervous system and the young child’s predisposition to acquire speech and language, younger children could benefit the most from bilateral implants. Parents should also consider their child’s current development status and auditory needs.

Q: What effect will bilateral implants have on therapy?

A:  It’s very important for implanted children and adults to receive ongoing speech and language therapy, regardless of whether they have one implant or two.  With more access to sound, therapists may elect to use different therapeutic approaches and may incorporate the additional auditory skills that are described here (such as sound localization) in your program.