What Is Cochlear Implant Surgery?
Cochlear implant surgery is a highly advanced procedure that restores hearing in individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who no longer benefit from conventional hearing aids.
A cochlear implant bypasses damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve, allowing patients to perceive sound.
At Büyük Anadolu Hospitals, cochlear implant procedures are performed by experienced ENT and audiology teams using cutting-edge technology and internationally approved implant systems.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Cochlear Implant Surgery?
You may be a candidate if you:
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Have severe or profound hearing loss in one or both ears
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Receive limited or no benefit from traditional hearing aids
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Have intact auditory nerves and no contraindications for surgery
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Are motivated to participate in postoperative rehabilitation and auditory training
For children: Diagnosed with hearing loss and cleared after ENT and audiological evaluation
Cochlear implantation can be performed in both adults and children (as early as 12 months old) after thorough testing and multidisciplinary assessment.
Step-by-Step Procedure Process
Preoperative Evaluation: Audiological and ENT examination, CT/MRI scans of the inner ear, and speech perception tests.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia.
Surgery:
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A small incision is made behind the ear.
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The surgeon places the internal receiver-stimulator beneath the skin and inserts the electrode array into the cochlea.
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The external speech processor is fitted after healing.
Duration: 1.5–3 hours.
Hospital Stay: 1–2 days.
Activation: The device is activated and programmed approximately 2–4 weeks after surgery.
Rehabilitation: Postoperative speech and hearing therapy sessions for optimal results.
Possible Risks and Preventive Measures
| Possible Risks | Our Preventive Measures |
|---|---|
| Temporary dizziness or imbalance | Monitored postoperatively; usually resolves quickly |
| Infection at the incision site | Sterile surgical protocols & antibiotic coverage |
| Facial nerve irritation (rare) | Performed by expert otologic surgeons with nerve monitoring |
| Device failure or migration | Use of high-quality implants & secure fixation |
| Tinnitus or mild sound distortion | Gradual programming and auditory rehabilitation |
Cost of Cochlear Implant Surgery in Turkey
Cochlear implant surgery in Turkey typically ranges between €12,000 – €20,000, depending on the implant brand (Cochlear™, MED-EL™, Advanced Bionics™), unilateral or bilateral implantation, and rehabilitation requirements.
| Country | Average Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Turkey | €12,000 – €20,000 |
| United Kingdom | €25,000 – €35,000 |
| Germany | €22,000 – €30,000 |
| Spain | €20,000 – €28,000 |
| USA | €35,000 – €50,000 |
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Recovery and Aftercare
Mild discomfort or swelling behind the ear for a few days is normal.
Patients usually resume normal activities within 5–7 days.
The implant is activated after 2–4 weeks, followed by device tuning and speech therapy.
Full hearing adaptation and speech improvement occur gradually over 3–6 months.
Lifelong follow-up ensures device maintenance and auditory progress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cochlear Implant Surgery
It doesn’t restore natural hearing but provides clear sound perception through electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve.
The external processor is typically activated 2–4 weeks after surgery, once healing is complete.
Yes — cochlear implantation is safely performed in children over 12 months old, with excellent outcomes when combined with rehabilitation.
Cochlear implants are designed to last for decades, and external processors can be upgraded as technology advances.
Yes, after 7–10 days, once postoperative recovery is stable.