Once the hearing aids have been fitted for the ears, the individual should begin to gradually wear the hearing aid. Because hearing aids do not restore normal hearing, it may take time to get used to the different sounds transmitted by the device. The American Academy of Otolaryngology recommends the following when beginning to wear hearing aids: Be patient and give yourself time to get used to the hearing aid and the sound it produces. Start in quiet surroundings and gradually build up to noisier environments. Experiment where and when the hearing aid works best for you. Keep a record of any questions and concerns you have, and bring those to your follow-up examination.