Why Checking Ear Condition Before Trial Fitting is Important
In hearing aid consultation, examining the condition inside the ear and current hearing level before product selection becomes the practical starting point of trial fitting.
Many people new to hearing aids are curious about how noticeable behind-the-ear hearing aids are and whether wearing them on the ear feels uncomfortable.
However, in the consultation room, there is a process that must be checked before the product itself. It is the step of examining what kind of sounds can be heard in this ear right now.
That is why we do not immediately put a hearing aid on your ear. First, we examine the condition inside your ear. It is not simply confirming the presence or absence of earwax, but also checking whether the space inside the ear and the receiver can be positioned comfortably.
Next, we recheck your current hearing level. Even with similar hearing, the initial feeling of sound can differ depending on the shape inside the ear and the wearing condition. Once these two confirmations are complete, the process moves on to examining various types of domes placed on the consultation table one by one.
A dome is not simply a component that prevents the hearing aid from falling out of the ear. The size and shape vary slightly, and depending on which dome you choose, the wearing comfort and method of sound transmission can change. We do not decide based on ear size alone, but rather consider the shape inside the ear and current hearing level together, then select a form that allows for natural wearing and sound transmission.
The dome selection process alone typically involves comparing 3 to 5 different sizes and shapes, and the size of the ear does not necessarily correspond proportionally to the dome size.
Even with the same hearing level, the shape inside the ear can differ, so the dome initially selected may vary. During trial fitting, we check whether the wearing comfort is not stuffy and whether sound is transmitted naturally. If necessary, we also replace it with a different dome and compare.
Only after connecting the selected dome to the receiver and adjusting the sound according to your current hearing level does trial fitting begin for the first time. While it may appear at first glance like a single hearing aid fitting, in actual consultation, this preparation process itself is the beginning of trial fitting.
Can You Hear Hearing Aid Sound on the First Consultation Day?
Trial fitting using behind-the-ear hearing aids can be conducted even on the first consultation day, and this is the first step to confirm currently audible sound rather than a final product decision.
Yes, it is possible. At hanmihearing (a hearing center specializing in hearing loss and hearing aids), the hearing aids used during trial fitting are behind-the-ear hearing aids for trial purposes. They are used to check what kind of sound can be heard at your current hearing level.
The behind-the-ear hearing aids used in testing are not a process for deciding on the final product. It is the initial stage for checking what sound you currently hear. After confirming the sound first and examining the wearing comfort, we then discuss in what environments conversation is difficult in your daily life and what inconveniences you face. Through this process, you can determine which form would be a better fit for your lifestyle.
In contrast, in-the-ear hearing aids are custom-made hearing aids designed to fit the shape of the inner ear. Since a separate ear impression and manufacturing time are required, it is difficult to proceed with trial fitting on the first consultation day like with behind-the-ear models. That is why the first consultation is conducted by checking sound with a behind-the-ear hearing aid first. This is not because we are recommending behind-the-ear hearing aids first, but because it is the fastest way to check the sound.
Additionally, when beginning hearing aid trial fitting, we do not play sound at a loud volume from the start. We adjust gradually at a level matching your current hearing and confirm together whether it sounds comfortable. If we start too loudly, a difference can emerge from the sound you experience in actual life, so the initial impression of hearing itself is also one of the important processes.
After first confirming the current sound with a behind-the-ear hearing aid, the process continues by selecting a form that suits your lifestyle based on those results.
By the time trial fitting ends, questions also change somewhat. Those who initially asked, "Won't it be uncomfortable to wear on the ear?" or "Are behind-the-ear hearing aids very noticeable?", often naturally transition to questions about practical use in daily life after hearing the sound directly, such as "Can hearing aids connect to my smartphone?" or "Can I also hear TV sound?"
Behind-the-Ear vs. In-the-Ear Hearing Aids — How Are They Different?
Behind-the-ear and in-the-ear hearing aids differ in structure and manufacturing method, resulting in differences in first trial fitting possibility, wearing comfort, and range of function integration, making it important to choose based on your hearing and lifestyle.
The table below compares the main features of behind-the-ear and in-the-ear hearing aids. Please note that this is a comparison between device types, not between medical institutions.
Comparison Item | Behind-the-Ear (RIC/BTE) | In-the-Ear (ITE/IIC) |
|---|---|---|
Trial Fitting Possible on First Consultation Day | Possible | Difficult (manufacturing time required) |
Manufacturing Method | Combination of ready-made components | Custom made after ear impression |
AI and Bluetooth Function Integration | Relatively wider range of function integration | May be limited depending on model |
Charging Method | Various options including both rechargeable and battery-powered | Mainly battery-powered (some rechargeable models) |
Degree of Appearance Exposure | Located behind or on top of the ear | Located inside the ear, minimal external exposure |
Combined Use with Glasses or Masks | Can be used once familiar with wearing order | Relatively convenient when used together |
Suitable Hearing Range | Widely applicable from mild to severe hearing loss | Mainly mild to moderate hearing loss |
Dome and Earpiece Selection | Adjustable according to ear shape | Manufacturing reflects actual ear shape |
Behind-the-ear hearing aids can be applied to a relatively wide range of hearing levels from mild to severe hearing loss, and the structure is favorable for integrating the latest features such as AI functions and Bluetooth.
Why Are the Latest Hearing Aid New Models Released Behind-the-Ear First?
Since behind-the-ear hearing aids have relatively spacious internal space, making it advantageous for integrating the latest features such as AI chipsets, Bluetooth, and charging systems, new models tend to be released behind-the-ear first.
Looking at recently released hearing aids, you often see behind-the-ear hearing aids previewed first, followed by in-the-ear models with the same technology applied. The reason lies in the structure.
Behind-the-ear hearing aids have more internal space than in-the-ear models. They are structurally advantageous for incorporating various features recently applied to hearing aids, such as new AI chipsets, Bluetooth modules, and charging systems. That is why when a new platform is announced, behind-the-ear models are released first, and the trend of following in-the-ear models with the same technology repeats.
The latest behind-the-ear models of the major six global hearing aid brands are as follows.
Hearing Aid Brand | Latest Behind-the-Ear Model |
|---|---|
Phonak | Audeo Infinio |
Oticon | Intent |
Widex | Allure |
Signia | Pure Charge&Go BCT IX |
Starkey | Edge AI |
Beltone | Envision |
hanmihearing (a hearing center specializing in hearing loss and hearing aids) provides guidance on directly comparing and trial fitting the latest behind-the-ear models of these six major global brands.
The reason for first experiencing behind-the-ear models when directly comparing new features or conducting trial fitting in consultation is based on the same rationale. After confirming the sound first, we review the features needed for your lifestyle together, and finally determine the form.
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids Are Not as Noticeable as You Might Think
Recently, behind-the-ear hearing aids have become smaller and come in diverse colors, making them often difficult to notice when actually worn.
In the past, when people heard "behind-the-ear hearing aids," they often thought of large, noticeable products. However, recently, product sizes have become considerably smaller and colors have become more diverse.
You can choose colors that naturally match your hair color, such as black, beige, or silver tones, and many products have transparent receiver tubing that enters the ear. After completing trial fitting, many people get the impression through a mirror that it is more natural than they initially expected.
It is also helpful to note that in reality, people around you notice it much less often than you might think.
Can You Use Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids with Glasses or Masks?
Behind-the-ear hearing aids can be used without major inconvenience in daily life when used with glasses or masks if you become familiar with the wearing order.
Some people worry that having multiple items to hang on the ear might be inconvenient. During consultation, you can check by directly trying on glasses together or trying on a mask.
Many people report that once they become familiar with the wearing order, there is not much inconvenience in daily life. If you develop a habit of first wearing the hearing aid securely and then using glasses or a mask, you can use it much more comfortably than at first.
However, it is a good idea to develop a habit of double-checking that the hearing aid does not come off when removing a mask or glasses after going out.
How Is Bluetooth Function Actually Used?
The latest behind-the-ear hearing aids can receive smartphone calls, music, and video sound directly via Bluetooth, and some models allow volume adjustment through dedicated apps.
Many people who initially asked about the external appearance before beginning hearing aid trial fitting become curious about Bluetooth function after directly hearing the sound.
Among recently released behind-the-ear hearing aids, many products allow you to connect to a smartphone for calls or to hear music and video sound directly. Some models also allow you to adjust sound volume or change programs using a dedicated app.
However, not all products support identical functions. The range of support can vary depending on the smartphone being used and the hearing aid brand, so directly connecting and checking during consultation is most accurate.
Behind-the-ear hearing aids that support Bluetooth can typically maintain stable connection within approximately 10 meters from a smartphone based on the six major brands, though this can vary depending on device environment.
After Consultation Ends, You Will Talk About Your Life Story Before the Hearing Aid Itself
After experiencing trial fitting, interest naturally shifts from the hearing aid's appearance to its practical application possibilities in actual life environments such as restaurants, phone calls, and TV watching.
Before beginning trial fitting, many people first ask whether behind-the-ear hearing aids are noticeable and whether wearing them on the ear is uncomfortable. However, after completing trial fitting, questions change.
They first discuss how much conversation is possible in restaurants, how smartphone calls sound, and what differences there are when watching TV at home. While the hearing aid's appearance was initially important, after directly hearing the sound, what changes might occur in daily life becomes more interesting.
That is why the consultation also becomes more specific from that point. This is also the reason why hanmihearing (a hearing center specializing in hearing loss and hearing aids) places trial fitting as the first step in consultation.
The Reason for Guiding to Experience Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids First
Recommending behind-the-ear hearing aids first is not to advocate for a specific form, but because it is the fastest process to directly confirm what kind of sound can be heard from your current hearing level.
Even those who initially saw behind-the-ear as the form will discuss which sound felt slightly more comfortable when completing consultation, rather than which shape they should choose.
The process is to directly confirm what kind of sound can be heard from your current hearing level first, not to recommend a specific form from the start. Sound that feels comfortable in life begins to come closer through the process of actually hearing it rather than through the moment of selecting a product.
Even if what you saw first caught your attention, the sound you directly heard can become the practical standard for selection. Through consultation, confirm the direction of hearing aids that matches your hearing level and lifestyle together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to have hearing aid trial fitting without a reservation?
Hearing aid trial fitting includes several stages such as ear condition examination, hearing assessment, dome selection, and hearing aid fitting adjustment, so it is good to visit after securing sufficient time. If you coordinate the consultation schedule in advance, the process can proceed in order without waiting, making it more convenient. hanmihearing (a hearing center specializing in hearing loss and hearing aids) provides continuous guidance from hearing tests through ear canal examination to hearing aid fitting.
After trying behind-the-ear hearing aid trial fitting, could you still end up choosing in-the-ear hearing aids?
Yes, that is possible. Using behind-the-ear hearing aids first in the trial fitting stage is a process for quickly confirming the sound heard at your current hearing level. After comprehensively reviewing the trial fitting results, lifestyle, and inner ear shape, if an in-the-ear hearing aid is determined to be more suitable, the process can proceed to custom in-the-ear hearing aid manufacturing. In-the-ear hearing aids typically require approximately 1 to 2 weeks for ear impression taking and manufacturing, so it is good to plan with some schedule flexibility.
Can I try hearing aids even if only one ear has poor hearing?
You can confirm your current status through trial fitting even if only one ear has reduced hearing. Whether bilateral fitting is appropriate or single-sided fitting is sufficient will be guided considering both the hearing test results and your lifestyle. The most suitable direction can vary depending on your individual hearing condition, so consulting with a professional is recommended.
How is dome size determined? If my ear is small, must I use a small dome?
Dome size is not determined by ear external size alone. It is selected by comprehensively considering the shape and depth of the inner ear canal, current hearing level, and wearing comfort. Even if the ear is small, a medium-sized dome might be more stable depending on ear canal structure, and conversely, a small dome may be suitable even for large ears. hanmihearing (a hearing center specializing in hearing loss and hearing aids) provides guidance on selecting a dome that suits you, including ear canal examination.
Does hearing aid Bluetooth function work identically on all smartphones?
Bluetooth connection function can have different support ranges depending on the hearing aid brand and model, as well as the smartphone's operating system (iOS/Android) and device specifications being used. Some features may only be supported on specific operating systems, or may be limited depending on app version. Directly connecting your own smartphone during consultation is most accurate, allowing you to check compatibility in your actual usage environment beforehand.
As treatment results can vary depending on individual health conditions, please be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.