Completely-In-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids
Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are custom-made to fit inside your ear canal, with only a small part visible. Designed around the shape of your ear, they offer a comfortable, discreet fit while helping you enjoy a natural listening experience.
Who are CIC hearing aids suitable for?
These are best suited to people with mild to moderate hearing loss and are recommended for those who:
- Want a discreet hearing aid that sits neatly inside the ear
- Prefer a custom-made hearing aid for their ear shape
- Would like to make use of their ear’s natural acoustics.
Because these hearing aids are small, they may not be suitable for people who have dexterity issues, such as difficulty handling small devices or changing batteries.
Advantages of CIC hearing aids
01.
Discreet design
One of the most discreet hearing aid styles available, sitting inside the ear canal with only a small part visible.
02.
Custom-made fit
Each hearing aid is moulded to the shape of your ear for a secure and comfortable fit.
03.
Rechargeable options
Available with rechargeable options on selected models.
04.
Telephone friendly
A good option for people who regularly use the telephone. Their discreet in-the-ear design allows you to hold the handset naturally against your ear during calls.
05.
Natural listening experience
The position inside the ear helps make use of your ear’s natural acoustics.
06.
Comfortable for glasses wearers
With no components sitting behind the ear, they can be a comfortable option for people who wear glasses.
Your Hearing Aid Journey
Initial enquiry
Getting started is easy. You can contact our practice in Ebbw Vale or Cardiff by phone, through our online booking system, or via a referral. Many people get in touch after noticing it’s becoming harder to follow conversations, particularly in noisy environments, or because family members have commented on their hearing.
Booking your assessment
We’ll arrange your appointment using Blueprint and explain exactly what to expect. Your visit will typically include a discussion about your hearing and a comprehensive hearing test. Hearing assessments are completely free of charge. The only cost would be if earwax removal is needed, in which case our standard wax removal fees apply.
Case history & ear examination
When you arrive, your audiologist will take the time to discuss your medical history, lifestyle, listening difficulties, tinnitus and any noise exposure. They’ll then examine your ears using otoscopy to check for earwax, infection or any abnormalities that may need onward referral before your hearing test can take place.
Diagnostic hearing assessment
You’ll have a comprehensive hearing assessment, including pure-tone audiometry and, where appropriate, speech-in-noise testing. This allows us to identify the type, degree and configuration of hearing loss in each ear. All testing is carried out in a soundproof environment and meets the gold standard in audiology.
Results & discussion
Once your assessment is complete, your audiologist will explain your results in clear, easy-to-understand language. They’ll go through your audiogram with you and discuss how your hearing loss may be affecting your everyday life. If hearing aids are recommended, they’ll talk you through the most suitable options.
Hearing aid recommendation & selection
Your hearing aid recommendation will be tailored to your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle, dexterity, cosmetic preferences and budget. We’ll discuss suitable hearing aids from leading manufacturers such as Starkey, along with different styles (RIC, BTE and ITE/CIC), features including rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming and noise reduction, and the available pricing options.
Ear impressions (if required)
If you choose custom-moulded or custom in-ear hearing aids, we’ll take ear impressions or digital ear scans, which are then sent to the manufacturer to create your hearing aids.
Ordering & fitting appointment
Once you’ve chosen your hearing aids, we’ll place the order with the selected supplier. As soon as they arrive, we’ll arrange your fitting appointment.
Fitting & programming
At your fitting appointment, your audiologist will ensure your hearing aids fit comfortably and securely before programming them to match your individual hearing test results. Where appropriate, real-ear measurements are carried out to ensure accurate amplification. You’ll also be shown how to insert, remove, clean and care for your hearing aids, as well as how to charge them or change the batteries.
Trial period & orientation
We provide a FREE two-week trial period with your hearing aids. During this time, we’ll explain what to expect as your brain adjusts to amplified sounds, as this adaptation can take time. We’ll also provide guidance on troubleshooting and using any compatible apps, where applicable.
Follow-up appointment
Within your two-week trial period, we’ll contact you for a review phone call or arrange an appointment if needed. This gives us the opportunity to check your comfort, benefit and overall satisfaction, while making any fine-tuning adjustments to help you get the best possible performance from your hearing aids.
Ongoing aftercare
Our aftercare service includes routine servicing, cleaning, replacement tubing or domes where required, battery or charging support, and annual hearing reviews. We use Blueprint to schedule reminder appointments, helping you keep your hearing aids performing at their best.
Warranty & repairs
If your hearing aid develops a fault, we’ll arrange for it to be returned to the manufacturer (such as Starkey or Phonak) under warranty or repaired in-house where possible. A loan device can be provided while your hearing aid is being repaired. All Starkey hearing aids come with a 5-year warranty as standard, which is significantly longer than the industry average of two years. Accessories, including chargers, receivers and TV streamers, are covered by a 2-year warranty.
Our Packages
Our hearing aid packages combine advanced technology with personalisation, ensuring you receive the perfect match for your individual hearing needs based on your initial hearing test & assessment. Get ready to experience clarity, comfort & convenience with a solution specifically for you.
Package
Description
Payment Plan
36 months, 10.9% interest.
One Aid
Two Aids
Essential
For individuals seeking a hearing aid for uncomplicated listening situations, such as one-on-one conversations.
From £64.18*
£998
£1,995
Bronze
Perfect for improving hearing in quieter settings, such as one-to-one conversations, small group discussions, and environments with less background noise.
From £94.90*
£1,525 £1,675
£2,800 £2,950
Silver
Enhance your hearing experience in more demanding settings, such as socialising in big groups or navigating loud work environments.
From £113.40*
£2,225 £2,425
£3,325 £3,525
Gold
Ideal for more complex listening environments, featuring the most advanced technology & seamlessly integrates with both Apple & Android devices.
From £119.84*
£2,375 £2,625
£3,475 £3,725
Platinum
Get both clarity & control with this package that’s crafted for dynamic listening. This range actively filters out background noise while simultaneously giving you full access to your surroundings.
From £128.52*
£2,575 £2,925
£3,645 £3,995
Compare the packages
Essential
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
*We also offer alternative finance plans: 6 months at 0% interest, 10 months at 0% interest, 12 months at 5.9% interest, 18 months at 9.9% interest and 24 months at 9.9% interest. Please speak with our team for more details.
Finance is subject to status, and is arranged through Tabeo.
Tabeo Broker Limited, incorporated in England & Wales (registration number 10416530), with its registered office at C/O Fox Williams, 10 Finsbury Square, Finsbury, London EC2A 1AF. Tabeo Broker Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and entered on the Financial Services Register, reference number 777539.
Audiology Associates Ltd trading as Audiology Associates is an Appointed Representative of Tabeo Broker Limited (“Tabeo”)Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to carry out the regulated activity of credit broking.
Frequently asked questions
Are CIC hearing aids difficult to look after?
Due to their small size and position inside the ear canal, they need regular cleaning and maintenance. We recommend cleaning them daily, changing wax filters regularly, keeping the vent clear and using a drying system to help protect them from moisture.
Do they need more maintenance than other hearing aids?
They can require more maintenance than other hearing aid styles because they are more exposed to earwax and moisture. Looking after them properly will help keep them performing at their best.
Do CIC hearing aids have Bluetooth?
Not always, Signature Series CIC models don’t include Bluetooth or wireless streaming, so they’re best suited to those who prioritise discretion and simplicity over connectivity. For patients who want streaming in a CIC, the Edge AI CIC offers Bluetooth with disposable batteries.
Are they rechargeable?
Rechargeable options are available on selected models. The Signature Series CIC Rechargeable model offers up to 38 hours of battery life and includes IP68 protection against water and dust.
Can CIC hearing aids help with tinnitus?
Tinnitus features are available on selected CIC models. Your audiologist will be able to discuss whether a CIC hearing aid is suitable for your hearing needs and tinnitus management.
How long do CIC hearing aids last?
They typically last around 4–6 years, although this depends on how well they are cared for and how they are used.
Are CIC hearing aids available in different colours?
Yes. These hearing aids are custom-made to your ear, with colour and shell options varying depending on the model. Their discreet design allows them to blend naturally with your ear.
Do CIC hearing aids need protecting from moisture?
Yes. As they sit inside the ear canal, they are more exposed to earwax and moisture. A regular drying routine can help protect the device and maintain its performance.
