The structure and mechanism of the cochlear implant are more complex than a conventional hearing aid. It brings a greater awareness to a broader range of sounds. Although the cochlear implant cannot restore damaged auditory nerves or hearing, it improves sound reception and speech perception with the sophisticated device and post-operative training.

When conventional hearing aids cannot help patients with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss to improve their hearing and communication ability, they may consider the option of cochlear implantation. In general, the shorter the period of hearing loss, the better the outcome will be. This period is especially crucial for children, as infancy is the prime time for developing speech and communication skills. Delay in treatment will hinder rehabilitative training and badly affect surgery outcomes.