Lyric-Extended Wear

 The 100% invisible amplification to be worn 24 hours a day for up to 120 days by InSound Medical

It's no secret that amplification is underused by those who really do need assistance.  The three reasons often given are cosmetics, inconvenience, and sound quality issues.  The extended wear devices from InSound Medical addresses all of these concerns.  It was launched commercially in January 2007, however, InSound Medical, Inc. limited the availability to ensure long term success.  This system was featured by Dr. Oz, on his television show as a medical miracle for those with hearing loss.  See the part of the show here

nSound Medical had developed the first 100% invisible amplification to be worn 24 hours a day for up to 120 days.  These units can be purchased individually, or with an annual subscription.  The convenience of having 24 hour use without need to remove even when showering is furthered by the lack of need to change batteries.  There will be 10-15 minute appointments every 90-120 days to have it replaced here in the office.  It has a soft external shell that is designed to contour to the ear canal to ensure comfort after the first 7-14 days of adjustment to the feeling of it in the ear.   Our patients have commented that it is as comfortable as their conventional in the canal amplification.
The sound quality reported in the clinical studies, as well as by patients of ours already using them is exceptional.  Even those who have tried multiple sets of "open ear" devices (currently the least invasive on sound quality concerns in the traditional amplification family), have preferred the use of the extended wear device for overall sound quality.  The deep placement ensures the use of the natural directionality of the ears anatomy to provide a more natural sound quality.  Changes to the users own voice are minimized by contact with the boney portion of the ear, a long understood benefit that has been outside the reach of many due to comfort issues of jaw movement.  The entire device sits past this point and is reported to be forgotten by a its users.  The microphone and speaker are both deep in the canal so contact with the ear is feedback free for most.  
This device will be appropriate for approximately 50% of individuals with hearing loss.  The ear anatomy, daily activities, and your  history of ear concerns is taken into account, as is the severity of hearing loss.  InSound Medical's device, marketed under Lyric and Wow, is intended for those with mild to moderately severe hearing loss (Low frequency thresholds to 50dB, high frequencies to 70-80dB).  
If you want to learn more, please contact our office for an appointment at 206-525-2525
Nilesh Shah MD, Otolaryngology and Michelle Batson AuD, Audiology will begin your evaluation to determine if this exciting new technology is right for you.