Cochlear Implant Surgery Cost in India

Cochlear implant surgery is a commonly performed procedure to implant a small, complex device called a cochlear implant to help provide a sense of sound to a person who is considered deaf or has severe hearing loss. The implant consists of an external portion that sits behind the ear and an internal portion that is surgically placed under the skin. 

Cochlear implant surgery procedure and its cost

A cochlear implant surgery generally begins by making a small incision behind the ear and creating an opening in the mastoid bone to guide the electrode to the cochlea. Once the incision is made, the surgeon places the implant electrode inside the cochlea. The surgeon then places an internal processor in the pocket between the muscle and the bone behind the ear. This internal processor receives information from an external speech processor that will be worn outside the skin. Once the implants are in place, the incisions are sutured and you will be moved to a recovery area. The entire surgery lasts for about 2 hours and is typically performed under general anaesthesia meaning you will be asleep throughout the procedure.

As mentioned before, the average cost of a cochlear implant surgery can range from Rs. 1,78,438 to Rs. 8,73,600. Various factors however, are likely to affect the exact cost of surgery. 

Factors that affect the cost of cochlear implant surgery in India

Some of the most common factors that are likely to affect the exact cost of your cochlear implant surgery are given below: 

City you are in: Depending on the city you are in, the exact cost of your cochlear implant surgery is likely to vary. Typically, surgeries of any kind are more expensive in metropolitan cities across India as compared to non-metro cities. 

Choice of hospital: Hospitals with better amenities and facilities are likely to cost more in comparison to hospitals with slightly inferior facilities and amenities but are also more affordable

Pre-operative tests: Prior to surgery, your surgeon will likely perform a series of general and simple tests such as blood tests, blood pressure and ECG. These will help your doctor not only assess your overall health but also uncover any underlying medical conditions you may have that could pose risk of complications either during or after the surgery. 

Consultation fees: Before and after a cochlear implant surgery, you will likely have a number of consultations with your doctor. The cost of these consultations may add up and affect the exact price of your cochlear implant surgery. 

Post surgery medications: After your surgery, your doctor may recommend some medications for pain management and faster recovery. The cost of these medications may add up and affect the exact cost of your cochlear implant surgery.