How long is a cochlear implant surgery?
The duration of cochlear implant surgery can vary, but it typically takes around two to four hours. Cochlear implant surgery involves placing an internal device with electrodes directly into the cochlea, the part of the inner ear responsible for hearing. The surgeon makes an incision behind the ear, drills a small hole in the skull, and inserts the electrode array into the cochlea. After the surgery, a recovery period is necessary before the external components, including the speech processor and microphone, are connected. While the surgical procedure itself is relatively short, the comprehensive process involves preoperative evaluations, postoperative follow-up, and rehabilitation to optimize the individual's ability to hear and understand speech with the cochlear implant.