Cochlear implants use a sound processor that fits behind the ear. The processor captures sound signals and sends them to a receiver implanted under the skin behind the ear. The receiver sends the signals to electrodes implanted in the snail-shaped inner ear (cochlea).

The signals stimulate the auditory nerve, which then directs them to the brain. The brain interprets those signals as sounds, though these sounds won't be just like normal hearing.

It takes time and training to learn to interpret the signals received from a cochlear implant. Within a year of use, most people with cochlear implants make considerable gains in understanding speech.

Parts of a Cochlear Implant:

• A Cochlear Implant has and external and an internal part
• The External part is all the apparatus, shown in the image which is worn at ear level by the Cochlear Implant user.
• The internal part is all the apparatus which is surgically implanted in the skull during a Cochlear Implant Surgery.