How Does the Surgery Work?

Step-by-Step Surgery

Getting Ready for Surgery:
You will meet with surgeons and audiologists to make sure the implant is right for you. They will explain the process and answer your questions.

The Surgery Itself:

Surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep during the procedure. It takes around an hour.
A surgeon, will make a small cut behind your ear.
The implant is placed under the skin, and a thin wire is put inside your inner ear (the cochlea). This will involve drilling bone behind your ear.

After Surgery:

You will go home on the same day and should keep the wound dry.
The implant won’t work right away. You will need to wait about 3-4 weeks to heal.
An audiologist (hearing specialist) turns on the implant on and adjusts it.

What Are the Risks of Cochlear Implant Surgery?

Like any surgery, cochlear implant surgery has some risks, but serious problems are rare. Here are the most common risks:

Infection
The area around the implant might get infected, but this can usually be treated with medicine.
Bleeding or Swelling
Some people might have minor bleeding or swelling near the surgery site.
Dizziness or Balance Problems
After surgery, you might feel dizzy for a short time, but this usually gets better.
Changes in Taste
Sometimes, food might taste different for a while.
Device Issues
The implant might not work perfectly, and you may need adjustments or, in rare cases, another surgery.
Pain
This operation is normal not very painful but you can have some discomfort in the area after surgery that regular painkillers normally control very well.
Major Risks like Facial nerve palsy (injury of the nerve that moves your face) are extremely rare.

Is Cochlear Implant Surgery Safe?

Follow your doctor’s instructions.
Keep the surgery area clean and dry.
Go to all your follow-up appointments to make sure the implant is working properly.
Keep the wound dry for two weeks
Do not fly for six weeks.