Hearing Aid Styles

Open Fit or Receiver in the Canal Technology (RIC)

These are two different classes of hearing aids that look very similar. Both have an external portion which hides behind the ear and a very thin tube or wire that delivers the signal to the ear. Both can leave the ear canal substantially to preserve the natural resonance of the ear canal.

Behind-the-ear (BTE)

A BTE sets over the ear and has a tube which conducts the sound into the ear canal. It is recommended for severe to profound hearing losses, those with certain medical issues of the ear or children who are growing rapidly.

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)

CIC’s fit entirely into the ear canal with only a small removal filament resting in the outer ear. These offer both cosmetic and acoustic benefits for some hearing losses.

In the Ear (ITE) Full Shell

ITE’s fill the most of the outer ear and are good for mild to severe losses and those with dexterity concerns.

In-the-canal (ITC)

ITC’s rest in the bottom portion of the ear and the ear canal. They are appropriate for mild to moderate hearing losses.