Using results of a recent (within six months) diagnostic hearing evaluation, our Audiologist will discuss your hearing and communication needs as well as your style preferences with you and your family (if desired). O’Connor Hearing Center features hearing aids from several national and international manufacturers (Please see our “Hearing Aids” page on this website). We will be able to find the right device to fit your needs and your budget.
At this appointment we will select the color, the style and measurements for your new aid. Depending on the style chosen, we will obtain an ear impression and complete a contract. At O’Connor Hearing Center, one half of your share of the cost of the hearing aids is required at this appointment and the balance is due upon fitting. An appointment will be made for the hearing aid fitting, usually in about two weeks.
When an impression of the ear canal is needed for precision custom hearing aids, ear pieces or for custom hearing protection, O’Connor Hearing Center uses the most advanced technology available in Michigan, the Otoscan – 3D Digital Ear Scanning.
Otoscan – 3D Digital Ear Scanning
We strive to continuously improve our services, and to offer the most up to date technology to meet your better hearing needs. We are proud to announce that we are now offering the latest technology for custom ear impressions, Otoscan – 3D Ear Scanning by Otometrics. (Notes: Candidates must qualify under certain criteria to be eligible for scan.)
Otoscan is the first 3D ear scanning solution which allows us to make digital impressions for custom in-the-ear pieces such as earmolds and hearing aids.
The Procedure:
The process is quick, simple, and pain free. We secure a headband over the ear and use the Otoscan’s laser probe to capture the shape of the ear canal and outer portions of the ear, creating a 3D image. During the scanning process, you can see live video footage of your ear canal. The overall process generally takes less than three minutes per ear.
Benefits:
The new Otoscan – 3D Ear Scanning increases patient comfort and safety, and decreases wait time. Compared to silicon impressions, using Otoscan is a less invasive procedure. If you are a good candidate for the Otoscan, this option will eliminate the need for the thick silicone material and foam stop that is required to produce a traditional ear impression, and replaces it with a light, painless, laser scan of the ears. It removes the risks that may be associated with traditional silicone ear impressions.
Also, shipping delay and waiting time is reduced for custom earplugs and hearing aids using Otoscan because we are able to instantly send the scan with the order digitally to the manufacturer.
