Private In The Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
What is an In the Canal (ITC) Hearing Aid?
In the canal hearing aids (ITC) have been around on the private market for years. They are a style of custom made in the ear hearing aid originally designed to be more discreet than previous behind the ear models. Studies show that people are more likely to wear their devices if they are unnoticeable to others, hence the development of smaller and smaller hearing aids. With this device there is a portion of the hearing aid that sits within the ear canal and another small part that shows in bowl of the outer ear.
Because this aid sits within the ear itself, the telephone can be used in the natural way, although as there is a part sitting in the bowl of the ear, some users report they take care not to let the phone touch the aid to avoid possible feedback sound.
It should be noted that even though the aid looks good, you must be able to use it. When considering smaller models, it’s crucial to have the ability to handle the product which includes insert, removal, battery replacement and cleaning. Based on experience, the jury is out on whether this style makes it easier or harder for insertion as it very much depends on the user! At Integrate Hearing we pride ourselves on our ability to find the best suited hearing aids for each wearer and that you will never purchase aids that you cannot manage.
Are ITC devices compatible with Bluetooth and rechargeable technologies?
Yes. Most ITC models are large enough to fit these components within the hearing aids, so unless you have particularly small ears (in which case you may require a slightly larger ITE style hearing aid in order to keep these functions) you are open to these technology options. Find out more about “In-The-Ear” Models. Custom rechargeable hearing aids are currently only being offered by one manufacturers Starkey.
In the canal (ITC) models vs in the ear (ITE) models
Some differences between the two custom made models:
- ITE style may take a larger battery
- ITE often easier to insert as larger and therefore more to hold on to
- ITE sometimes offer higher power level
- ITC not always an option for none-standard ear shapes/sizes
Are they suitable with severe hearing loss?
Due to their size, there is a greater seal on the ear canal to allow for less feedback than smaller
models and therefore your aid can reach higher levels than the IIC or CIC styles. This makes them a
good option for those with severe losses looking for discretion.
(ITC) Pros and Cons
Pros
- Custom made and comfortable
- Natural use with the telephone
- May be a good option with dexterity problems
- Suitable for severe losses
- Full technology functionality in (most cases) in comparison to small custom styles
- Rechargeable and Bluetooth options
Cons
- Second largest custom style – more discreet models available
- Size and shape may prove difficult for wearers with dexterity issues
- May be more susceptible to moisture/ear wax in comparison to BTE styles
Model Hearing Aid Batteries and Accessories
This style also required replacement ear wax filters which help to prevent wax from damaging the internal component that sit within the aid. Although one manufacturer offers a rechargeable option, most ITC models will require 312 or 13 batteries.
Don’t worry, we will explain all necessary running costs, how often items will need replacement, what comes as standard or the replacement cost. At Integrate Hearing we make sure you are up to speed with everything you need to know so there will be no hidden costs!
ITC – are these custom in the ear devices available on the NHS?
Most NHS providers still currently only offer BTE style hearing aids. These can come in both the more traditional style with a custom-made earmould or for milder losses you will be offered an open fit BTE with a slim tube. More recently some NHS providers have started to offer Receiver in canal (RIC)
style aids, although it is only some. For more discreet models such as custom in the canal styles you may need to see a private audiologist. At Integrate Hearing we offer all styles of hearing aids from all UK leading manufacturers. Find out more about our other discreet hearing aid styles.
Are In-the- canal RICs right for you? How much do they cost?
At Integrate hearing we offer invisible in the canal hearing aids from all manufacturers at all price points. To find out more about our 4 ranges of aids click here (link prices page) or contact us on 01978799387 to discuss our products and book a hearing aid assessment for a 14-day free trial.
JM 47
10:31 02 Oct 24
Excellent earwax removal service from Kelly. Answered all my questions and provided a very professional and thorough service. Also, advised a potential problem with an eardrum and wrote a letter for me to take to my GP explaining a potential issue.
Malcolm Oswald
16:09 04 Sep 24
Had ear wax removed from both ears - great result and a good service from the audiologist. Good value too - can recommend
sheila huck
20:27 24 Jul 24
My ear had been blocked five weeks and quite sore,dreaded ear procedure,went in could not believe how much wax comeout and so painless,a job very well done I won’t go anywhere else, ps I went in a walk-in centre few days before they did a prod down my ear,sore for hours.
Mel Godfrey
18:17 03 Jul 24
I’ve been a customer of Olivea and her team for six years. I have found the products they have provided to me and the service quality to be excellent. I can genuinely say that they improve the quality of my life. For example, the periodic (free) hearing reviews I am invited to which regularly pick up details that I might otherwise not have noticed, such as gradual loss due to ear wax build up or change in my prescription. Technical and behavioural advice is honest and delivered in a straightforward manner. Value you for money is also excellent. Product pricing has been very competitive in my experience.Integrate Hearing is a great, young company and I will be sticking with them.
D P
13:40 12 Jun 24
Attending the clinic on Deansgate today for Audiogram hearing test. Nice, bright, new clinic and the Audiologist, Monum, was brilliant. Very knowledgable, very professional and I would recommend this clinic if you need hearing tests or audiology. Great price too.
Malgosia Jarmolowicz
18:04 11 Jun 24
My 12 year old daughter has just been seen by Monum at the Cheadle clinic for wax removal. I am so impressed. Her kindness and skill relaxed my daughter and although not a straightforward case the results are fantastic. Very pleased indeed!
deborah bulger
18:05 22 May 24
Highly recommend this clean , professional & relaxing practice . Monum was very helpful and advised me with ear care to control repeated need for syringing etc . She cleared my blocked ear with water very carefully and comfortably .The whole visit was really friendly from the phone call yesterday to make an appointment , to the warm greeting at reception prior to the treatment . I’ll definitely return .
Dee Kennedypeers
16:31 22 May 24
Very impressed with the service I received The young lady that dealt with me was very professional and efficient She explained everything really well and the problems with my hearing haveresolved I would have no hesitation in using Integrated hearing again.
Helen Bradley
16:51 17 May 24
Contacted Integrate in the morning and was given an appointment same day. I'm quite a nervous patient, but from the moment I arrived I felt very much at ease. Monum carried out microsuction, and from start to finish and was totally professional. She explained every step prior to carrying it out, and I wasn't hurried at all. She further advised on aftercare and how to manage any future flare ups . I would totally recommend going to Integrate, and this will be my go to place in the future. Thank you again Monum.
Lauren Hudson
12:04 07 May 24
I recently visited the team at the Cheadle clinic, having already used the services at their smaller hub in Wrexham, and wow, the warmth, friendliness and professionalism of the team was outstanding. I came away with having my issue resolved and more knowledgeable about how to look after my ears and my overall hearing. Whilst I live an hour from the Cheadle clinic, there are many other clinics I could visit in between, I will always be making an appointment to see the team at Integrate Hearing. I would not trust anyone else with such an important thing as my hearing.
Matthew Tebay
09:20 06 Apr 24
Great service and excellent advice provided.
Debra Dolan
15:39 22 Feb 24
The audiologist was very kind and patient with my 16 year old daughter, who was a bit scared. He was very reassuring and went at her pace with the earwax removal. The whole experience from booking the appointment with the receptionist to appointment was great 🙂. Would definitely recommend.
Stephanie Feely
12:22 22 Feb 24
Quick efficient earwax removal very friendly
Hassan Jagranvi Jagranvi
10:20 16 Feb 24
Such a nice and cooperative staff
Carl O'Connor
10:35 02 Feb 24
The most comprehensive personal centred care approach for deaf people. Highly recommended, customer care is paramount to them and nothing is too much trouble.
William Myers
12:14 21 Jan 24
Really friendly and understanding staff.I was nervous about my appointment but Olivia put me at ease and explained everything incredibly well.100% recommend!
Christina Jones
17:14 15 Jan 24
Very efficient and friendly! Highly recommended.
Amy L
09:55 13 Jan 24
I could not recommend Integrate Hearing more. Olivia is professional, kind and patient.She explains things very clearly and made me feel very comfortable.If you ever went into the shop before you will know just how much Olivia has transformed the space. It is beautifully decorated it makes it such a lovely atmosphere in there.Her attention to detail is evident in all areas of her business.
Jack Hughes
16:01 11 Jan 24
Booked and seen same day by a very skilled practitioner. Dealt with the issue promptly and effectively.
Steven Davies
15:19 09 Jan 24
Very good experience, nice clear ears. Gentleman was great and caring.
sophie wormleighton
22:36 07 Jan 24
After desperately trying to resolve the issue myself, and after struggling to hear for a few days, I realised I needed to get some help. Thankfully I found Olivia who put me at ease straight away and suppressed all of my anxieties about what was going on!Quick to be seen, informative and a straight forward ear wax removal process - and I’m good to again. Thank you for the very welcoming and friendly service, I highly recommend.
Sarah Parry
21:00 05 Jan 24
Visited recently for ear wax removal, Olivia and all of the staff put me at ease straight away. Olivia was very professional and explained the process thoroughly, as well as answering all of the questions I had. The removal was quick and painless.
LIAM DODD
12:34 05 Jan 24
I Highly recommend Integrate Hearing for ear wax removal. Olivia and the staff were professional and welcoming.
T Stonier
10:41 04 Oct 23
Very friendly and efficient
Dee Hall
10:50 24 Aug 23
Definitely recommend integrate hearing, I got my hearing back after persistent efforts to remove the blockage.
Ruth Shaw
08:52 12 Jul 23
Great experience for ear wax removal.Would highly recommend
Colin Comerford
17:48 11 Jul 23
What can I say. Love what the NHS do but they are so stretched..BUT this place is ace. So easy. Called 9am Monday after 4 days with no hearing in left ear and was in at 12 having both ears syringed. Pain free. 15 mins...Very professional service and lovely ladies to deal with. Highly recommend 👌
Sans_RFP Work
12:27 10 Jul 23
When I went for my appointment due to build, up of ear wax I could hear virtually nothing! Within minutes I could totally hear, it was like magic! Fabulous service, professional, kind, considerate, lots of background info and after care, amazing, I will defo go here next time, am sure there will be a next time sadly, that's my ears.
mark pilbeam
06:40 09 Jul 23
Just had a very professional, knowledgeable and efficient appointment to remove stubborn wax from both ears.All my questions were answered quickly and easily.I can't thank Olivia enough.I will definitely use her services again and would highly recommend her as an audiologist who cares about her work and her customers/patients.Thank you
Lorraine Holmes
23:48 28 Jun 23
Very welcoming from the moment you walk through the door. The examination and procedure were explained in detail. Would definitely recommend
Ben Marsh
21:09 14 Jun 23
Was seen by Melissa who was very helpful and informative, was able to get an appointment quickly and the price was very reasonable too - would recommend.
Steve Drake
06:49 15 May 23
Great friendly staff and superb efficient service.
Usaam Gillani
08:05 04 May 23
Audiologist (can't remember her name, sorry!) was very polite and professional. Very clean inside and was an efficient service. Would highly recommend
Allan Colcombe
16:08 03 May 23
Friendly and efficient. Explained exactly how to get there, where to park, and what the procedure would be. And most importantly, I can hear again!
Grant Furber
09:15 02 Feb 23
Great service, easy booking process, nice clean clinic and very welcoming staff. Would recommend.
Clive Stubbings
10:36 26 Jan 23
Very professional and friendly service. Spotless premises, friendly, knowledgeable staff - totally positive experience.
Roy Owen
10:39 21 Jan 23
My appointment was on the same day as my phone callIt was like having an ear MOT - I only needed to have suction on one ear but Olivia checked the other one just in caseAfter my ear was cleared I was offered a free hearing test which I chose to take as it had been sometime since my last testAll in all a quick professional friendly serviceI recommend and will return should I have another blocked ear
Hall Meadow
19:23 18 Jan 23
Helpful, friendly and very professional. Will use again.
wendy jackson
23:25 17 Jan 23
Very efficient in sorting my hearing problem. Ear wax removal was quick and painless.
Stephen Tanswell
06:52 13 Dec 22
Very professional
Rebecca Green
09:21 13 Nov 22
Olivia was friendly, efficient and professional. She took the time to check I was suitable for treatment and explained the risks clearly. I felt I was in safe hands!
Markus Sorsa
17:58 15 Oct 22
Great friendly customer service, will go again.
Mike Roylance
11:05 08 Oct 22
Excellent service. Very friendly.
Brian Bradley
09:17 28 Sep 22
If you need troublesome ear wax removing, Olivia & the team at Integrate Hearing is definitely the place to go. From walking into the modern and stylish reception & receiving a friendly welcome by front of house you know you are in safe hands. The micro suction they use is painless and within a few minutes your ears are clear & your hearing is spot on. I would wholeheartedly recommend Olivia, you will not be disappointed!
Andrew A
17:50 29 Aug 22
Olivia was patient and understanding of my needs, taking time to reassure me and explain the treatment. She helped calm down a nervous man with bad experiences at other clinics. Thanks very much, Olivia!
roger peach
17:37 21 Jun 22
Delighted with the ease of getting an appointment and the efficiency with which the appointment concluded. (It's quite horrifying seeing what has been extracted, as well.)I really like the idea of Olivia putting me in her diary system to call me for a further appointment in a number of years time.
G J Griffiths
14:33 03 Mar 22
Excellent service! Olivia was patient, informative and caring. Ear wax removal by micro suction was far more efficient and not at all uncomfortable when compared to previous irrigation methods through NHS surgeries. A helpful suggestion might be to charge less for one ear, in order to stay competitive with some other names offering similar services.
Joanna Dowey
14:44 21 Feb 22
I've been putting olive oil droplets into my ear - as per doctor's orders - and it just wasn't having any effect at all. Made an appointment with Olivia,and I can hear properly for the first time in months. It's really wonderful. Thanks Olivia, super professional, clearly explained, tidy and clean!
Terry McHale
12:41 18 Feb 22
I am delighted with the service received. I first saw Olivia for ear wax removal and gained enough confidence to ask about hearing aids. I had previously had 3 attempts with other suppliers without great success but this time I am really pleased. I have the Cros type aids and can hear so much more and clearer. Thank you Olivia.
Tony
12:52 21 Jan 22
Ear wax removal - very satisfactory second visit..Friendly & courteous. Showed caring by asking about my general health as well as my ears/hearing. Explanation of procedure clear & understandable. . Work carried out quickly & efficiently.
Amjad Ali
13:19 12 Nov 21
Olivia is very caring and helpful
Sally Halon
14:52 12 Aug 21
First time I have visited here for ear wax removal. Prompt and efficent and would definitely visit again should I need to.
dominic creighton
17:02 06 Aug 21
Had two visits, seen by two very supportive experts who did a great job.Professional, accommodating and efficient.Will definitely be using again when needed and also recommending to family.
Claire Barker
00:44 16 Jul 21
Saw Olivia for a hearing assessment. She explained the procedures and the results fully and clearly. She was both professional and friendly. Would highly recommend.
Kenneth Pratt
15:01 21 Jun 21
The process was carried out very efficiently and promptly and Olivia has a pleasant personality would certainly recommend her
Mike Erskine
14:28 21 Jun 21
Having had an ear wax problem for some time , which was exacerbated by warm olive oil, making me almost totally deaf, I was very pleased to get an urgent appointment with Olivia.She did an excellent micro-suction wax extraction which was completely painless and very quick. It was such a relief to hear properly again.She was a very professional and pleasant audiologist, whom I would not hesitate to recommend.
Omar Attarbashi
14:33 01 Jun 21
Helped with my hearing issue, very professional, friendly and informative. Would recommend 100%
Richard Gee
19:19 23 May 21
All went smoothly ,no problems
Ben Brampton
08:22 17 May 21
I took me 91 year old Aunt to see Olvia as she had an ear wax build up completely blocking both ear canals. Olivia was excellent with her and used several different techniques to ensure all wax was removed. I fully recommend Olivia and will be back should the need arise again in the future.
Henrique Pereira (hery1996)
16:09 10 May 21
Very professional polite staff
Daniel Roe
09:35 09 May 21
Attended Integrate Hearing after suffering hearing loss for about ten days due to a blockage caused by a build up of ear wax. Olivia explained the micro-suction process in detail prior to removal and cleared my ears. The whole process was painless and well worth the relief of having clear ears again. Would recommend seeing Olivia to anyone with similar problem.
Sue Baker
17:54 04 May 21
I recently saw Olivia for assessment/advice regarding tinnitus. The appointment was excellent and I would not hesitate to recommend Integrate Hearing to anyone who is looking for an audiologist who is both professional and caring.
Sally Jowett
10:38 30 Apr 21
Olivia came out to my home during lockdown which was a great service. I had microsuction on one ear that had been troubling me with a build up of wax. This is a common problem for me and I get it done once a year. Not wanting to venture into town to my usual place, the home visit was very welcome. The procedure was very quick and painless. She also gave me a thorough hearing test which reassured me about my hearing. Being over 50 and experiencing tinnitus for many years I wanted to know if I had any hearing loss. Good to know that there is nothing wrong with my hearing.
Dion Storr
18:32 29 Apr 21
Happy customer here, had a good experience; friendly, fast, considerate and effective treatment.
Diane Weastell
14:26 01 Apr 21
The service was very timely , professional and thorough. At no time did I feel under pressure to make a decision to purchase hearing aids. The follow up was also within a month, following my decision to go ahead with the hearing aids, and my questions were answered clearly. Also there was a quick response to my emails.
Ed Maxwell
08:42 30 Mar 21
Olivia quickly put my mind at rest about the micro suction process. The procedure was professional, efficient and 100% effective!. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Olivia.
Alan Rowbottom
08:36 25 Mar 21
Olivia removed ear wax for me by micro suction. It was pain free & the outcome was excellent. Olivia is a charming professional lady who puts the patient first. She explained in detail everything about the procedure. I would not hesitate to recommend Integrate hearing to anyone. I would certainly use this service again
Sue Thomas
20:49 22 Mar 21
I visited Olivia in Cheadle towards the end of 2020 with a view to getting some new hearing aids. My sister had recommended Integrate Hearing to me. From my first appointment I was really impressed. Olivia was very reassuring and patient. Most importantly, I never felt pressured into buying. I had several appointments to ensure the correct fitting. I had previously only been able to wear a hearing aid in my right ear as the one for my left ear wasn’t a very uncomfortable fit. Thanks to Olivia I now have correct fitting aids for both ears. So pleased I decided to make the change.
Quentin White
17:25 22 Mar 21
I was completely blocked in both ears due to earwax this was caused by ear plugs worn over a long time, it was uncomfortable and disconcerting. I was told by the ENT that there would be a 3 month wait for an NHS appointment! Thank god for Olivia, she saw me within 2 days and after 2 visits had my hearing restored. well worth the money she is a very experienced, kind and understanding professional.
Heather Bratt
21:30 19 Mar 21
What a lovely, kind, caring, professional practitioner. So delighted to be able to hear again in time for Christmas.
Stevie D
16:38 19 Mar 21
Resolved my hearing issue totally. Very informative and professionally conducted. Would recommend.
Rick
13:38 19 Mar 21
I can thoroughly recommend Integrate Hearing. Olivia is friendly, professional, helpful, knowledegable and effective. You really can't ask for more!
Wasim Akram
11:17 13 Jan 21
Extremely professional service and quick. Olivia was super helpful and knowledgeable.
Andy Hazlewood
15:46 08 Jan 21
Very informative, everything explained. Fantastic service. I can now hear again! Cannot recommend enough.
Magdalena Kepa
17:35 18 Dec 20
Absolutely amazing! Very professional service! I will recommend this clinic if you struggle with any hearing difficulties, or have any concerns and need an advice. They use a modern professional equipment and Olivia is giving a good advice for the future after care as well. I have not seen such a good customer care anywhere else before. Thank you!
Valerie Clark
10:32 24 Nov 20
Very pleased to have found Olivia, who has been a big help with post-Covid hearing problems. I saw her first for a Hearing Check and wax removal. The system she uses for this was much more pleasant than my previous experiences of wax removal on the NHS. The check found some hearing loss and Olivia recommended a full hearing test, at no extra charge, which was an hour and a half appointment. From this, she was able to tell me where the problem lay, explain it to me, then let me try some hearing aids. She emailed me a record of the results, and has written to my GP to inform him of her findings. I have been disheartened by the lack of interest in my long Covid symptoms from my GP, and was so reassured by the way Olivia listened to me and took a keen interest in getting to the bottom of my newly acquired tinnitus and hearing loss. I highly recommend her services.
Richard Harper
17:01 25 Oct 20
Fantastic service! Really helped alleviate tinnitus ringing. Quick response if we had any queries. Pressure-free choice of a good range of hearing-aids.
Daniel Currie
09:37 14 Sep 20
Really great and informative service. I had a blocked right ear and Alison was great at persevering and getting it unblocked. All Covid secure and would highly recommend.
Julia Bearder
17:29 02 Sep 20
Visited Olivia today for mico suction at the Cheadle clinic. Olivia was wonderful, she was kind and gentle and explained the procedure fully before she started. The outcome was fantastic, I can hear again after suffering with hearing loss throughout lock down. I most certainly would recommend Olivia to everyone.
Brian Goodhand
12:36 17 Aug 20
Olivia came to see my 90yr old mum, because she had impacted wax in her left ear. Mum was really nervous and worried about the procedure for removal. However, Olivia immediately put her at ease with her very calm professional manner. The treatment took only minutes and mum felt the benefit straight away. Mum and I could not be happier, and we would not hesitate in saying Olivia provided a First Class Service. Many Thanks.Brian Goodhand - Denton
Money Mike
18:38 29 Jun 20
Great service! Had very badly blocked ears and the treatment completely cleared them straight away!
Abdul Alim
15:38 01 Feb 20
Olivia helped me massively with my hearing. Definitely recommend at least calling to see if she can help you out
jackie skinner
20:13 25 Nov 19
Hi , I have just had my ear waxed cleared by Olivia . I found the whole experience quite pleasant ! Olivia explains every thing so well and it reassuring throughout ! You don’t realise how important hearing is until it is gone as mine was in one ear ! Thankyou Olivia for your fantastic work and advice to help me maintain ear health , No more cotton buds for me 🙄🤦🏼♀️
Norman Wall
19:10 20 Nov 19
Visited Olivia today at Cheadle for ear wax removal. I was very impressed with her professionalism and friendliness which I feel would put even a nervous patient quickly at ease. The treatment was trouble free and pain free and reached a successful outcome with complete removal of the wax. I would not hesitate to recommend Olivia to any potential patients.
Jean Silvester
15:47 29 Jul 19
After having miscrosuction, I discussed the possibility of a hearing aid from Olivia after having problems with my NHS aid. At each appointment I found Olivia very thorough and professional. She was careful to ensure that I had exactly the right fit and that I was happy with it. She was helpful, pleasant and made me feel relaxed. I am very happy with my new neat hearing aid. Thanks Olivia!
Sam Chillingworth
12:27 24 Jul 19
An excellent service. Easy to book and appointments available within a few days. The procedure was quick and easy!
Alexandra Grant
09:13 16 Jul 19
Very good experience of a pleasant, professional audiologist. I felt I was in good hands and ended up with excellent hearing.
NATALIE FREEMAN
17:51 29 May 19
Olivia Austin came out to me this afternoon. So informative, professional and a very cheerful lady. Syringed my ear and I can actually hear without asking people to repeat what they said. Definitely use them again. Integrate Hearing from Stockport
Elaine Chegwin Hall
12:17 22 May 19
I can honestly say that I feel a new woman after receiving microsuction at Integrate Hearing. Olivia's thorough explanation, care and attention along with her gentle and friendly manner made the experience a very positive and reassuring one.
Jim B
01:02 10 Mar 19
Olivia is a superb hearing specialist. I have been to others, but she is definitely the best. She is very knowledgeable, and takes time to explain the ear wax removal procedure. I have been to see her twice now, and have been very impressed. I believe Olivia does home visits too.
Tony Congdon
09:42 19 Jan 19
The experience from start to finish was relaxed yet highly professional. Olivia gently allayed my fears about wearing a hearing aid and after extensive testing, explained the options very clearly. I’m now the happy owner (wearer!) of a tiny device that’s genuinely changed my life! Thank you Olivia (wish is done it years ago....😊)
Our Range of Hearing Aids
Find out more about the products we offer below.
Our Services
We offer all aspects of hearing care in Manchester, Stockport, Cheadle Hulme & Romiley. Whether it be ear wax removal, hearing aids, hearing tests or tinnitus treatment, we can help. Please click on one of the following services for more information.
Private Hearing Aids
Hear well and stay integrated, with a choice of the latest hearing aids from the best manufacturer’s brands like Phonak, Unitron, Widex, Signia, Starkey or Oticon. Our honest, unbiased and comprehensive advice helps you understand your best hearing aid features and styles.
