The board-certified ENT doctors at Surgical Associates Northwest, along with our experienced audiologists, have extensive training and experience fitting patients with all types of hearing aids. We provide concierge-type services and work with most major brands and leading manufacturers to achieve a custom solution right for each patient.
Trusted Care for
Better Hearing
Our comprehensive treatment goes beyond fitting for a hearing aid, first establishing any causes for hearing loss through a thorough evaluation and ensuring that these are addressed. If hearing aids are required, we will take care of your specific needs for hearing aids in Federal Way and Auburn with a fully personalized approach.
If you are looking for help with your hearing, this may go beyond simply acquiring hearing aids. Our board-certified doctors can help to diagnose and treat the issues that accompany hearing loss, including dizziness and tinnitus. From diagnosis to treatment and hearing aid fitting, our team ensures coordinated, comprehensive care, all in one place.
What Are My Hearing Aid Options?
With so many hearing aids available today (and more advanced technology than ever before), choosing the right one can be difficult and time-consuming. Understanding the available options can help ensure that the one you select best meets your needs. Today’s hearing aids feature options that can improve a patient’s ability to hear under specific conditions. Some key features include:
- Directional microphones and noise reduction to improve one’s ability to hear in environments with substantial background noise
- Telephone adapters and Bluetooth compatibility to provide a convenient interface for devices, such as cell phones, allowing you to stream calls and audio directly
- Rechargeable batteries that offer all-day power without the need for frequent battery replacements
What Are the Different Styles of Hearing Aids?
While most hearing aids perform in basically the same manner, different styles are available to accommodate your budget, preferences, and lifestyle. An important point to remember is that the smaller the hearing aid, the shorter its battery life and the more it will cost.
Understanding Hearing Aid Styles
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
Behind-the-ear hearing aids sit comfortably behind the ear and connect to a custom earpiece that fits inside the ear canal. This style is suitable for all ages and levels of hearing loss, offering strong amplification and durability. While more visible than smaller devices, BTE models often include advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable batteries.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
Receiver-in-canal hearing aids are very discreet. They feature a small device behind the ear connected to a thin wire that delivers sound directly into the ear canal. Suitable for those with mild to severe hearing loss, RIC devices offer a natural listening experience and often include modern features like Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable or disposable battery options.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
Completely-in-canal hearing aids are custom-molded to fit entirely within the ear canal. They are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss and offer benefits such as reduced wind noise and a more natural sound direction. Due to their compact size, they may have fewer features and limited compatibility with Bluetooth or rechargeable technology.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
In-the-canal hearing aids fit partially in the ear canal, offering a balance between discreet appearance and enhanced functionality. They are appropriate for moderate-to-severe hearing loss and can include features such as volume controls and wireless connectivity. However, their size and shape may not be ideal for individuals with smaller ear canals.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
In-the-ear hearing aids fill the outer ear bowl and are easier to insert, remove, and adjust, making them a great option for individuals with dexterity concerns. Suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss, ITE devices can accommodate more features, including Bluetooth and rechargeable batteries. While more visible, they provide reliable performance and ease of use.
Choosing the Right Hearing Aid
Selecting a hearing aid starts with working with a trusted audiologist and understanding your options. As our hearing aid patient, you have access to both our board-certified doctors and our experienced, licensed audiologists (many other places use Hearing Instrument Specialists, which limits the diagnosis and management of many hearing issues).
Our audiologists take the time to understand your hearing goals, lifestyle, and preferences. Modern hearing aids use advanced digital technology to analyze and adjust sound based on your unique hearing needs. We will guide you through available technologies, explain features, and help you choose the best solution for you. Be sure to ask about trial periods, warranties, and insurance coverage so you feel confident and supported in your investment.
Personalized Hearing Aid Solutions
Hearing loss can make everyday conversations and connections more difficult, but the right hearing aid can restore clarity and confidence. At Surgical Associates Northwest, our ENT specialists and audiologists take the time to understand your hearing needs, perform thorough evaluations, and recommend hearing aids in Federal Way and Auburn tailored to your lifestyle. Our patient-first approach ensures ongoing support, education, and adjustments so you can hear your best.
