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If you or a loved one has trouble hearing due to chronic ear infections, outer or middle ear problems, or single-sided deafness, a bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) could be a great solution. Unlike regular hearing aids that transmit sound through the ear canal, BAHAs bypass damaged areas by sending sound vibrations through the bone directly to the inner ear.
This can offer clearer sound and better hearing in complex cases. In this article, we’ll cover what bone-anchored hearing aids are, how they work, who they’re for, and what to expect if you’re considering this hearing solution.
What Is a Bone-Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA)?
A BAHA (Bone Anchored Hearing Aid) sits on the skull by attaching to a small titanium implant that is surgically inserted behind your ear. It is a type of hearing device that uses bone vibration to transmit sounds and directly stimulate your inner ear.
How Does the BAHA System Work?
The BAHA system has three main parts:
- Sound Processor – Worn outside, usually behind the ear. It picks up sound from your surroundings.
- Abutment or Magnet – This connects the sound processor to the implant.
- Titanium Implant – A small metal screw that is surgically implanted into the bone behind your ear.
Who Can Use a Bone-Anchored Hearing Aid?
A bone conduction implant is most helpful for people who cannot wear traditional hearing aids or do not benefit from them. You might be a good candidate if you have:
- Conductive hearing loss – where sound cannot pass through your outer or middle ear.
- Mixed hearing loss – a mix of conductive and sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD) – where one ear has little or no hearing, and the other ear works normally.
- Chronic ear infections make it hard to wear normal hearing aids. Learn more about ear infections and symptoms.
- outer or middle ear abnormalities (like atresia or microtia).
Types of Bone-Anchored Hearing Aids
There are two main types of bone-anchored hearing systems:
Percutaneous BAHA System (Direct Drive)
This type uses an abutment (small connector) that sticks out slightly from your skin. The sound processor connects directly to this part.
Pros:
- Very clear sound because of direct contact with the bone.
- Less loss of vibration compared to magnetic systems.
Cons:
- The connector is visible.
- Needs regular cleaning to prevent skin problems.
Transcutaneous BAHA System (Skin Drive)
This system uses a magnet under the skin. The sound processor sits on the outside of the head and sticks to the magnet.
Pros:
- Nothing sticks out of your skin.
- Less chance of infection.
- Easier to maintain.
Cons:
- Slightly weaker sound transmission compared to percutaneous types.
- It may not be suitable for everyone with higher levels of hearing loss.
What Is the Surgery Like?
To get a surgically implanted hearing aid, a small operation is needed. Here’s what you can expect:
Before Surgery
- You will have a full hearing test
- The doctor will check the thickness of the bone behind your ear through imaging.
- You may need to stop some medications before the surgery.
During Surgery
- The operation usually takes 30–90 minutes.
- It can be done under local or general anaesthesia.
- A small titanium implant is placed in the skull bone behind your ear.
After Surgery
- You’ll go home the same day or the next.
- You need to rest for a few days.
- The implant needs about 6–12 weeks to bond with your bone (this is called osseointegration).
- After healing, the sound processor is attached.
Benefits of a Bone-Anchored Hearing Aid
A bone conduction implant can bring many benefits, especially for people who can’t use traditional hearing aids.
- Improved Hearing in Noisy Places: Bone-anchored devices reduce background noise and focus on the sound you want to hear. This makes conversations clearer, especially in busy places.
- Natural Sound Quality: Because the sound bypasses damaged parts of the ear, it reaches the inner ear directly. This provides a more natural sound, especially for those with single-sided deafness.
- Comfort and Convenience: For people who have problems with their ear canals (such as infections or blockages), these devices are more comfortable than in-ear hearing aids and reduce the risk of ear infections or wax build-up.
- Hearing balance: Hear sounds as if they are coming from both sides.
What to Expect After Getting a BAHA
After the surgery, here’s what the process usually looks like:
- Healing Time – The implant needs 6–12 weeks to bond with your bone.
- Activation – Once healed, the audiologist will attach and program your sound processor.
- Adjustment Period – It may take a few weeks to get used to hearing with the new device.
- Follow-Up – You’ll have regular check-ups to adjust settings and ensure everything works well.
How to Take Care of Your BAHA System
To make sure your bone conduction implant works well, proper care is important:
- Clean the skin around the implant daily, especially if you have an abutment.
- Use soft brushes or wipes to clean the sound processor.
- Store them in the designated container or casing in a dry place when not in use.
- Visit your audiologist for regular adjustments.
Bone Anchored Hearing Aids for Children
Children with hearing problems due to birth defects or chronic infections may also benefit from a bone conduction implant. There are child-friendly BAHA systems that are lightweight and soft-banded (no surgery needed initially).
As the child grows, surgery can be done to implant the device permanently. This gives the child access to clear sounds during important years of speech and language development.
Latest Technology in Bone Conduction Implants
Modern BAHA systems are more advanced than ever. Some features include:
- Wireless streaming from phones, TVs, or computers.
- App control for adjusting settings.
- Rechargeable batteries for ease of use.
- Smaller and lighter sound processors for better comfort.
Explore Starkey, Signia, Phonak, and ReSound options that may complement your hearing solution.
Conclusion
A bone-anchored hearing aid is a life-changing solution for many people who can’t benefit from traditional hearing aids. Whether it’s due to chronic infections, ear abnormalities, or single-sided hearing loss, the BAHA system offers a reliable and comfortable way to improve your hearing and quality of life. To confirm your suitability, consider a professional hearing test, such as the pure tone audiometry test, ABR/ASSR test, or tympanometry.
With the latest technology, simple surgery, and a wide range of support options, more people in Singapore are turning to this effective solution. If you think a bone conduction implant might be right for you or your child, speak with our audiologist at The Hearing Centre to start your hearing journey today.
Frequently Asked Questions
A regular hearing aid sends sound through the ear canal. A BAHA sends sound through the bone directly to the inner ear.
Most people experience only mild discomfort. It’s a minor procedure, and you can usually go home the same day.
Yes. Children with certain hearing conditions can use soft-band BAHA devices. Surgery can be done when the bone is strong enough.
Some devices are very discreet, especially magnetic ones. Others may be more visible, depending on the type you choose.
You can swim, but the sound processor must be removed before going in the water.
The titanium implant is designed to last many years. The sound processor may need updates over time.
Yes. It can send sound from the deaf side to your good ear, helping you hear from both sides.
Most people return within a few days to a week, depending on how they feel.
Yes. It is generally safe for people of all ages, including older adults.
Yes. Some clinics allow a trial using a headband version of the BAHA system to test how well it works for you.