MED-EL

MED-EL is a global leader in hearing implant technology, renowned for its commitment to "natural sound" and its independence as a family-owned company.

Headquartered in Innsbruck, Austria, MED-EL focuses on engineering internal implants that work in harmony with the body’s natural anatomy to provide the most realistic listening experience possible.

A Visionary History in Innovation and Drive

The MED-EL story began in 1975, when scientists Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair began researching the electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve at the Technical University of Vienna. Their work led to the development of the world’s first microelectronic multichannel cochlear implant, successfully implanted in 1977.

Since then, MED-EL has remained an independent, research-driven company, reinvesting nearly 20 percent of its turnover into R&D to push the boundaries of what is possible in hearing restoration.

Triformance: Better Hearing, Better Living

MED-EL’s design philosophy, Triformance, is built on three pillars that aim to provide the "closest to natural hearing."

• Complete Cochlear Coverage: Unlike traditional implants that often only reach the first turn of the cochlea, MED-EL uses long, flexible electrodes (up to 31.5mm). These reach the very top (apex) of the cochlea, where low-frequency "bass" sounds are naturally processed, ensuring you hear the full spectrum of sound.

• FineHearing™ Technology: Most implants focus on "loudness" cues (envelope). FineHearing adds "fine structure" information, the subtle timing details of sound. This is critical for music appreciation and recognizing the emotional nuances in a person's voice.

• Structure Preservation: MED-EL’s FLEX electrode arrays are the softest and most flexible in the industry. They are designed to be inserted deeply with minimal trauma, protecting the delicate internal structures of the cochlea and preserving any residual natural hearing you may still have.

Be Flexible, Be Free: The Sonnet 3 (2025)

The Sonnet 3 is MED-EL’s smallest and most connected behind-the-ear processor. It features integrated direct streaming for both Apple and Android devices and boasting an IP68 waterproof rating, allowing for worry-free use in rain or during exercise.

Its ergonomic design and focus on flexibility allows wearers to enjoy their typical, busy lifestyles without even thinking of the devices!

Why Trust in Expert Care at West Coast Hearing and Balance?

A cochlear implant is a surgical medical device, making the partnership between the recipient and their clinical team a lifelong journey. You can rest assured that our team is ready to assist you in any and all hearing health needs, from adjustments to updates.

Additionally, MED-EL ensures that users who received their implants decades ago can still upgrade to the latest 2025 processors, ensuring that your internal implant never becomes obsolete. That way, you’re always at the forefront of what’s going on for your hearing health, thanks to your partnership with our experts for your implant!