Congratulations on your BAHA connect surgery, we hope that your healing journey is comfortable and quick!
After your procedure
After bone conduction implant surgery, medical staff will apply a bandage to protect the incision.
You will likely have a bandage after surgery for a day or two. You will be given instructions on how to care for the implant site after the bandage is removed. When the bandage is removed, there may be some swelling around the incision. Once it heals and the swelling disappears, you may have a slightly raised bump where surgeons have placed the implant. This area is typically covered by hair. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding rest and recovery after bone conduction implant surgery.
How to care for yourself or your loved one after surgery
Recovering from your surgery is generally straightforward, but it will take time. Support from family and friends is important as you prepare for life with your new hearing.
Here are some tip to help your recover
- Follow your doctor’s instructions and take medication as directed.
- Arrange for someone to take you home from hospital as you may not be able to drive.
- Ask a friend or family member to help you for a day after your surgery so you can recuperate.
- You should be able to shower and wash your hair one week after surgery, as instructed by your doctor, being careful to keep water out of your ear.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink lots of water, to promote healing.
How long does it take to recover?
Your surgeon will want your incision to heal before you are fitted with your sound processor and it’s programmed for the first time. This typically takes 2-6 weeks for Baha® implants.
Many people return to work or normal activities within a few days after surgery, but you may want to give yourself at least a week to recover.
Your doctor will tell you when it’s safe to return to your activities. Most doctors advise against lifting even moderately heavy weights for a time after surgery.
BAHA Connect Surgery aftercare for your abutment and skin
First week after surgery
Once the dressing is removed, maintain good daily hygiene at home to avoid redness or soreness Wash hair carefully and use an alcohol free cleaning wipe to keep the skin clean.
Daily cleaning
After a few weeks, the outside of the abutment can be cleaned daily using mild soap and plenty of warm water An alcohol free abutment cleaning wipe should be used to remove any debris around the base of the abutment Once clean, the area should be gently dried with a clean towel or tissue Any hair wrapped around the abutment should be removed.
Weekly cleaning
The inside of the abutment should be cleaned on a weekly basis, using the alcohol free abutment cleaning wipes to avoid damage of the sound
processor Should there be any soreness or inflammation, or if the abutment feels loose, the implanting surgeon needs to be seen.
Do not use
- Alcohol
- Dettol / Savlon
- Soap with high pH
- Any other cleaning substances
Hairspray, medicated shampoo, and hair products such as
gel may cause irritation to the skin around the abutment and
should be avoided where possible. If used, the abutment and
surrounding area should be protected to avoid irritation.
Alcohol based products should NOT be used since it interferes with the osseointegration of the abutment!
Download the Cochlear BAHA Connect System Aftercare quick guide for patients here:
Download the Cochlear BAHA Connect System Aftercare brochure for professionals here:
Reference: https://www.cochlear.com/uk/en/home/ongoing-care-and-support/hearing-with-your-new-device/recovery-from-bone-conduction-implant-surgery
