Determining the Right Magnet Strength for a Cochlear Implant Headpiece

Finding the correct magnet strength for a cochlear implant headpiece isn’t one-size-fits-all. For our active son—bilaterally implanted—it took trial and error to get it right. And like many parents, we learned the hard way.

When Magnet Strength Is Too Strong

We started with two magnets in his universal headpieces. That worked for one side, but not the other. To keep it from falling off during play, we added a third magnet.

Big mistake.

At first, it seemed fine. But over time, we noticed the skin under the headpiece turning red. Our son didn’t complain much, so we left it. Eventually, a sore developed—forcing us to remove the processor until the skin healed. Not ideal, especially during the school year.

Trial and Error: Paper Layers and Irritation

To fix the issue, we tried folding thin layers of paper to create a buffer between the magnets and the scalp. It helped a little, but the connection point still turned red and sore. The magnets were still too strong.

The Right Fix: Foam Spacer Between Magnets

That’s when our audiologist showed us how to properly use the small foam spacer included with AB headpieces (UHP and AquaMic). We mistakenly thought it went on top of the magnets.

Instead, she recommended inserting two magnets, then the foam spacer, and placing a third magnet on top. This simple adjustment worked. The headpiece stayed secure—and most importantly, the irritation stopped.

Swimming Tips: Temporary Extra Strength

For swimming with the AB AquaMic, we use four magnets in both headpieces. The extra strength helps during splashing and jumping. Goggles and a Ci Wear shirt also make a huge difference—keeping the processor secure and allowing fast recovery if it comes off.

Important: Only use extra magnet strength temporarily. Always return to your usual setup after the activity. And regularly check the skin under the headpiece for signs of redness or pressure.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right magnet strength takes time and care. If the skin looks irritated or red, it’s a warning sign that the magnet is too strong. Don’t wait until it turns into a sore—adjust early.

Your child’s comfort matters just as much as the technology. And when it comes to active lifestyles or water play, products like the Ci Wear shirt can add another layer of protection and peace of mind.