“He Turned His Head Toward Sound for the First Time” – Dilip Chandra’s Cochlear Implant Journey

For every parent, hearing their child respond to their voice is a beautiful and natural moment. But for Bheemaya Babu, that moment came after a long journey filled with uncertainty, emotional struggles, and hope.

His son, Dilip Chandra, was an active and cheerful child from a very young age. Until the age of one and a half years, the family believed everything was normal. Like any loving parents, they assumed their son could hear because he appeared active and playful.

But slowly, they began noticing something concerning — no matter how much they called him or spoke to him, Dilip was not responding.

The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Worried about their child’s development, the family visited a local hospital in Shamshabad where doctors recommended hearing evaluations, including a BERA test.

The results were heartbreaking.

Dilip was diagnosed with nearly 90% hearing loss.

Doctors explained that a cochlear implant could help him hear and eventually develop speech. However, the family was overwhelmed because cochlear implant surgery involved significant financial challenges.

Searching Everywhere for a Solution

Like many parents desperately searching for hope, Dilip’s family explored every possible option before deciding on surgery.

His father recalls trying:

  • Herbal medicines
  • Ayurvedic treatments
  • Hearing aids
  • Speech therapy sessions

For nearly six months, they continued alternative treatments hoping for improvement. But despite all efforts, Dilip was still unable to hear properly.

Eventually, while searching online for better treatment options, the family discovered Dr. Rao’s ENT.

Finding Confidence at Dr. Rao’s ENT

After reaching Dr. Shree Rao and the team at Dr. Rao’s ENT, the family finally found clarity and confidence about the path ahead.

Dilip’s father explains how carefully they considered every aspect before choosing the cochlear implant device. Since it was a lifelong surgery, they wanted the best possible implant with advanced sound clarity and MRI compatibility for future safety and convenience.

He shared:

“It is a one-time surgery. We cannot do it again and again, so we wanted the best implant for our child.”

The family appreciated the detailed counselling and support provided throughout the process.

The Emotional “Switch-On” Moment

One of the most unforgettable moments in the journey came during the cochlear implant switch-on session.

As sound was introduced for the very first time, Dilip suddenly turned his head toward the sound.

That simple reaction became an emotional milestone for the entire family.

His father recalls the happiness they felt in that moment — the joy of finally seeing their child respond to sound after such a difficult journey.

Gratitude for the Care and Support

The family also expressed heartfelt gratitude toward the doctors, audiologists, and hospital staff at Dr. Rao’s ENT.

According to Dilip’s father:

  • The staff received them warmly
  • Every doubt was patiently clarified
  • The team constantly encouraged and reassured them
  • They were given courage during emotionally difficult moments

He especially thanked Dr. Shree Rao for successfully performing the cochlear implant surgery and helping transform their child’s future.

A Story of Hope for Other Parents

Dilip Chandra’s story is a reminder that early diagnosis and timely intervention can completely change a child’s life. It also highlights the emotional strength parents carry while searching for the right treatment for their children.

For families struggling with hearing loss, this journey offers hope:

With the right medical guidance, technology, and support, children with profound hearing loss can begin hearing, responding, and building a brighter future.

Under the leadership of Dr. Shree Rao, Dr. Rao’s ENT continues to help children rediscover the world of sound through advanced cochlear implant care and compassionate support for families.

If you are concerned that your child may not be responding to sounds or voices, you don’t have to face the uncertainty alone. Every child’s hearing needs and circumstances are different, and an experienced cochlear implant specialist can help you understand the diagnosis, treatment options, and next steps. Book an appointment to discuss your child’s hearing loss and explore the right path forward.

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About Dr. Shree Rao

MBBS, MS (ENT)
Director & Head – Cochlear Implants, Dr. Rao’s ENT

ENT Doctor, Dr-Shree-Rao-Cuddapah

Dr. Shree Cuddapah Rao, an ENT (Ear-Nose-Throat) surgeon, is a leading expert in Otology and Cochlear implant surgeries. With 10 years of experience in medical and surgical ENT, she heads the Cochlear Implant team at Dr. Rao’s ENT, a renowned ENT superspecialty hospital in Hyderabad. Dr. Rao’s patient-first approach and positive outcomes have won the hearts of both patients and families. Her expertise includes specialized training in Rhinoplasty, Facial Plastic Surgery, Head and Neck surgery, and Thyroid surgeries. With over 200 successful cochlear implants performed for patients worldwide, she continues to expand her knowledge and skills through the Hyderabad ENT Research Foundation, contributing to medical education and training. Dr. Shree has received numerous awards and recognition throughout her academic and ENT practice career.