What Does A Private Hearing Aid Look Like?

Many people still imagine bulky beige appliances when they hear the words hearing aid; however, technology has advanced very quickly in a relatively short space of time and the design of hearing aids has also evolved. Today’s hearing aids are very different to those many of us still think about from times gone by and you can even get aids, which are virtually invisible to other people.

There are various different types of hearing aid available and lots of different brands and manufacturers, so two of the same type of hearing aid may still look slightly different. It is estimated that there are over 200 different models available.


Behind the ear hearing aids (BTE) are generally available on the NHS and from private dispensaries; this type of hearing aid sits behind the ear and is attached to an ear mould, which lies in the ear canal; the ear mould is custom-designed. In the past, BTE hearing aids were cumbersome and bulky, but today’s models are much lighter and sleeker, making them much more discreet. The wire is usually clear and the ear mould may be beige or beige and clear.

Receiver in the canal (RITC) hearing aids are a good option for those with significant hearing loss who also want a discreet hearing aid; in this case, the loudspeaker lies inside the ear canal, making the hearing aid smaller and more discreet than the old style behind the ear hearing aids. You can also get RITC hearing aids in lots of different colours and designs.

Invisible in the canal (IIC): hailed as the most discreet hearing aid on offer today, the IIC is virtually impossible to see, as it sits inside the ear canal. There are various models available and this may be the best option for you if aesthetics are a concern and you would prefer your hearing aids to remain incognito. With this hearing aid, all the components are contained within the same small shell, so there are no connecting wires or parts located in other parts of the ear.

Completely in the canal (CIC): these hearing aids are a very discreet option, as they are contained almost entirely in the ear canal and they can be colour matched to complement the shade of your skin. Like the IIC hearing aid, all parts of the aid are contained with the same appliance, so there are no trailing wires.

In the canal (ITC): in the canal hearing aids are a slightly larger version of completely in the canal hearing aids, which represent a good option for people who would benefit from more power.

In the ear (ITE): this type of hearing aid fits in the ear, but it is not located within the ear canal; there are no parts behind the ear, but the aid is slightly more visible than hearing aids, which sit inside the ear canal. ITE hearing aids are easier to adjust and set than the smaller hearing aids, so they may be a good choice for people who find the smaller aids fiddly and those who have poor dexterity.

Once your audiologist has assessed your hearing, they will be able to recommend different types of hearing aid and once you have chosen which type of hearing aid you prefer, you can then have a look at the various styles and models available.

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