A First for Malaysia’s Private Sector: Smart Cochlear Implant Surgery at Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur | Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur
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A First for Malaysia’s Private Sector: Smart Cochlear Implant Surgery at Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur

A First for Malaysia’s Private Sector: Smart Cochlear Implant Surgery at Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Smart Cochlear Implant Surgery (1400px x 500px)

Hearing is one of the most powerful ways we connect with the world. For a child, hearing is the foundation for learning, communication and social development. Even a mild hearing loss can affect speech, language and academic progress if left undetected. That is why early detection and intervention are key to giving children the best possible start in life.

Now, a new breakthrough has arrived in Malaysia’s private healthcare sector, bringing even greater possibilities for patients at Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur. On 7 August 2025, our team made history as the first private hospital in Malaysia to perform surgery using the Cochlear™ Nucleus® Nexa™ Smart Cochlear Implant System. Led by our sessional ENT consultant, Prof Dr Goh Bee See, we are proud to offer this advanced device designed not just for better hearing today, but for continued innovation well into the future.

The Importance of Early Detection in Children

Hearing loss in children can be present at birth or develop during the early years. Because babies and toddlers cannot always express their hearing difficulties, signs can be subtle, such as:

  • Not responding consistently to sounds or voices
  • Delayed speech and language development
  • Difficulty following instructions
  • Turning the TV volume up high

Newborn hearing screening is the first step in identifying issues early. If a hearing problem is detected, a timely referral to an ENT specialist and audiologist can help determine the most suitable treatment, from hearing aids to cochlear implants. The earlier a child receives the right support, the better their chances for normal speech, language and learning development.

Why This Matters for Patients

The Nucleus® Nexa™ Smart Cochlear Implant is designed with a child’s future in mind. Unlike traditional implants, which remain the same for life, the Nexa has upgradeable firmware that can be updated with new features over time, without additional surgery.

Key benefits include:

  1. Future-proof hearing technology
    Like a smartphone, the implant’s firmware can be updated. This means patients can access new features and hearing innovations over time without undergoing another surgery.
  2. Instant hearing recovery in case of device loss
    With built-in internal memory, personalised hearing settings are stored directly in the implant. If the external sound processor is lost or damaged, a replacement can be instantly paired, restoring hearing within seconds.
  3. Comfort without compromise
    The Nucleus 8 Nexa Sound Processor is smaller and lighter than its predecessor while offering all-day battery life through Dynamic Power Management, a system that adapts power usage to daily listening needs.

Take the First Step Towards Better Hearing

If your child did not pass a newborn hearing screening, or if you have concerns about their speech or response to sound, it is important to seek an assessment as soon as possible. The earlier hearing loss is addressed, the greater the impact on communication, learning and social skills.

At Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur, our multidisciplinary team, including audiologists, speech therapists, ENT specialists and paediatricians are here to guide parents every step of the way, from early screening and diagnosis to the most suitable treatment options. Whether that involves medical management, hearing aids or a cochlear implant, our priority is to help your child reach their full potential.

Consultant Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose & Throat)
Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur

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