About 3 to 6 weeks after your child's cochlear implant, once the incision has healed, the doctor will turn on the implant.

While your child is healing, the area behind the ear may be sore and swollen.

Your child may feel pain and have a headache for a few days.

Some children may hear popping or clicking noises in the ear.

They may feel dizzy.

Things may taste funny or different.

Or they may have a sore throat.

Most children can go back to school or day care after about 1 week.

But they shouldn't play sports or do anything strenuous for about 3 to 4 weeks.

After going home, be sure that your child follows any instructions about diet or activity, and takes medicines as prescribed.

And be sure to follow any instructions for incision care.

Watch for any problems, and call your doctor if your child has problems such as new or worse pain, bleeding, or an incision that comes open.

And call your doctor if bright red blood soaks through the bandage.

Now there's one more thing to watch for after a cochlear implant.

Call your doctor right away if you see any signs of meningitis.

The signs include a high fever, a headache, a stiff neck, feeling sick to the stomach or vomiting, having trouble looking at bright lights, and sleepiness or confusion.

And always get emergency help right away if your child passes out or is short of breath.

You know your child best, so call your doctor if you have any questions.

Giving good care after surgery can help your child feel better and recover sooner.