Is a behind-the-ear hearing aid better than an in-the-ear hearing aid?

Question: Is a behind-the-ear hearing aid better than an in-the-ear hearing aid?

Answer: It’s easy to get confused about the different styles of hearing aids available. No hearing aid is best for everyone. Hearing loss and daily routine determine the best model for each person. Hand dexterity issues or significant arthritis/numbness suggest a customized in-the-ear style may be easier to insert.

If you are outside in wind and rain or wear caps, the smallest, deep in-the-canal aid may be best. The open ear canal with a behind-the-ear aid is ideal if portions of your hearing are near normal. This keeps the canal open to hear normally as well as hearing what you need through the hearing aid. We love educating our patients to their options and helping them to decide what would be best for each lifestyle.