Written By: Dr. Gurvinder Singh Dhiraj
Consultant - ENT
Sohana Hospital, Mohali.
Experience: 15+ Years
Speciality: ENT
Published: 12 May 2025
Last Updated: 12 May 2025
Going for a cochlear implant surgery might prove to be a life-changing step for individuals struggling with severe hearing loss. Preparing for a cochlear implant surgery might feel like gearing up for a brand new chapter in life, which would be filled with excitement, and possibilities of hearing and rediscovering the sounds, voices, and music of everyday life that were once written off. However, it is very important to understand that the success of any surgery depends on the amount of preparation that has gone into it. From understanding what to expect from the surgery to being mentally and emotionally ready to adapt to the cochlear implants, the preparation for this surgery involves much more than just logistics or material requirements. It is all about setting realistic expectations and laying the basic groundwork that is going to assist the patient in their hearing journey. The preparation for a cochlear implant surgery will also involve working in close coordination with the expert audiologist and surgeon in order to ensure that the patient is the right candidate for the surgery, and whether they are well-informed and aware about the surgical procedure, the device itself, and the post-surgical rehabilitation required. In this article, we will dive deeper into various aspects of a cochlear implant surgery in Mohali that give an idea of the preparation required for it.
What are cochlear implants?
Before getting started with the preparation, let us first understand what cochlear implants really are. A cochlear implant is an electronic device that helps manage the hearing ability of patients with hearing loss. These devices are a game-changing treatment option for patients who are struggling with moderate to severe or profound hearing loss and have not been able to derive any benefit from hearing aids. Cochlear Implants don’t actually restore hearing, but they make sure that the patient can listen and understand the voices and music more clearly. There are two different parts of the implant. One is the external part that is worn by the patient outside, and contains a microphone, a processor, and a transmitter. The other is the internal part, which is placed inside the ear during the surgery. This part contains a receiver and an electrode.
What is the procedure for a cochlear implant surgery?
The procedure for a cochlear implant surgery near me can be divided into two parts. First of all, the patient would need the implant to be placed inside the ear. This is typically an outpatient procedure, and the patient is allowed to go home the same day after the implant. On the day of the procedure, an experienced ENT surgeon will follow these steps:
Patient is administered general anesthesia that puts them to sleep
A small incision is made behind the ear of the patient
An opening is created in the bone behind the ear, and this opening is used to place the implant in the ear of the patient
The incision is closed with the help of stitches
After about two weeks from the surgery, the audiologist will place the outer part of the device during a follow-up session. This process involves the following steps:
The mic and processor are put in place and adjusted according to the fit of the patient
The device is checked to make sure that all the devices are working
The device is turned on, and the patient is asked to check what they can hear
How to prepare for the surgery?
In order to prepare for a Cochlear implant treatment, the patients need to undergo certain comprehensive evaluations, which might involve hearing tests, physical tests, and various imaging tests like CT Scans or MRIs. The doctors might also be interested in knowing the medical history of the patients to understand any ongoing medications and other problems.
Before the surgery, an audiologist tests and assesses the degree and extent of hearing loss faced by the patient.
A general physical exam is carried out to understand whether the patient is healthy enough for the surgery.
CT scans and MRI scans are used to assess the condition of the cochlea and other parts of the inner ear.
A psychological assessment might also be required in order to determine whether the patient is psychologically ready for the surgery.
The patient would be required to mention all the pre-existing medical conditions and the medications they have been taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Meningitis and Pneumonia vaccines might also be recommended to minimize the risk of infection after cochlear implant surgery in Chandigarh.
If you are looking for the Best cochlear implant surgeon in Mohali or the Best ENT surgeons near me, Sohana Hospital might just be the right choice for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the world’s most advanced technology and North India’s most trusted and experienced ENT specialists, who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for all cases of hearing loss and other ENT problems of the patients in the region. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier and happier future, enabling your loved ones to listen to all the symphonies of life.
Is a cochlear implant a difficult surgery?
Cochlear implant surgery is generally considered a routine, low-risk procedure for experienced ear surgeons rather than a complex or difficult operation. You can clear all your concerns with a ENT specialist near me.
How can Sohana hospital help with cochlear surgery?
Sohana Hospital has a wide range of treatment for cochlear surgery and its related steps. Their expert set of doctors and ENT specialists helping you with all of the required medical procedures are the best treatment available for cochlear implants.
How painful is cochlear implant surgery?
Cochlear implant surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Your entire procedure for a cochlear implant surgery can be discussed and planned with an ENT surgeon near me.
Are you deaf after cochlear implant surgery?
You are temporarily without hearing in the implanted ear immediately after surgery until the external sound processor is turned on. The external processor remains off for 2 to 4 weeks to let the surgical incision heal.
What is life like after a cochlear implant?
Life after a cochlear implant involves healing from a minor outpatient surgery, activating the external sound processor a few weeks later, and training the brain to interpret new digital sound signals. You can ask your cochlear implant surgery in Chandigarh about how things after the surgery will look like for you.
Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Gurvinder Singh Dhiraj
Sohana Hospital, Mohali.
Credentials of the Reviewer :
-MD Internal Medicine
-MS ENT
-16+ Years of Clinical Experience
-Specialist in ENT Diagnostics, Treatment & Prevention
ENT, Head & Neck Surgery
SOHANA HOSPITAL