Cochlear Implant Surgery Costs in Andhra Pradesh: What to Expect

Dr. K. R. Meghanadh

Cochlear implants are a ground-breaking solution for people who have profound hearing loss. This article delves into the world of cochlear implants, their costs in Andhra Pradesh, benefits, and central government initiatives in India.

Understanding Cochlear Implant Surgery Costs in Andhra Pradesh

Cochlear implant costs in Andhra Pradesh or any part of the world vary based on factors such as the type of implant, surgery charges, therapy expenses, and additional features. The cost of cochlear implants is the major contributor. The cost breakdown is as follows:

1. Cochlear Implant Unit Cost

The heart of the procedure, the cochlear implant itself, ranges from 5,30,000 INR to 14,00,000 INR. This comprehensive package covers external and internal components and standard accessories.

This is the major cost of the surgery, and other expenses are just a small fraction of the total cost. A person can opt for unilateral or bilateral cochlear implants. This will almost double the cost of the surgery.

2. Surgical Expenses

The surgical charges for the cochlear implant procedure, excluding the cost of the implant, can range from 1,00,000 INR to 3,00,000 INR (approximately 1215 USD to 3650 USD). These charges include room accommodation, medications, and professional fees.

3. Speech Therapy for Cochlear Implantees

Following the surgery, a crucial one to two-year auditory verbal therapy is recommended, costing around 1,00,000 INR to 2,00,000 INR (approximately 1215 USD to 2500 USD). This therapy is integral to optimizing the implant's effectiveness.

Exploring Surgical Options

• Unilateral Surgery: Unilateral surgery means having a cochlear implant for only one ear. Opting for a unilateral cochlear implant surgery (for one ear) and therapy could start from 8,00,000 INR (about 9,750 USD).

• Bilateral Simultaneous Surgery: A simultaneous bilateral cochlear implant surgery means having implants for both ears simultaneously. Including all charges, the amount you must pay may start from 14,50,000 INR (approximately 17,700 USD), providing benefits for decreased second surgery expenses.

• Bilateral Sequential Surgery: A bilateral sequential will cost almost 16,00,000 INR. The second round of therapy could be a little shorter and easier, allowing you to spend a little lesser money during the second surgery. (Assuming that all prices are constant)

Unilateral vs Bilateral Surgery

Apart from people who have lost hearing over time one year. Other patients, especially babies who are born deaf in both ears due to a genetic mutation, are always suggested bilateral cochlear implant surgery over unilateral. If the performance or improvement for a baby who got implanted at nine months is 100%, for a nine-month-old baby with implants in one year is only 80%.

The timing of cochlear implant surgery is quite critical not only for babies but also for other patients due to neuroplasticity. In case of financial constraints, unilateral or bilateral sequential surgeries are always suggested instead of waiting to pile up money for bilateral simultaneous cochlear implant surgery.

While the idea of bilateral cochlear implants (implants in both ears) might seem costlier at first glance, it's worth considering the benefits. A simultaneous bilateral cochlear implant surgery can reduce expenses in the second surgery and give better results when compared to bilateral sequential in case of no financial constraints. This approach enhances the auditory experience and minimizes therapy requirements, making it a cost-effective long-term choice.

A bilateral sequential cochlear implant strategy is available for those seeking alternative options due to budget constraints. This involves initially undergoing one cochlear implant surgery and planning for the second surgery when financially viable. Though the overall expense may be higher, this approach provides the best results for individuals with budget limitations.

Cochlear Implant Surgery Price list in Andhra Pradesh

Advanced Cochlear Implants: Investing in Enhanced Hearing

While basic cochlear implants offer significant improvement, advanced options provide enhanced sound processing speed, improved sound clarity, and additional features such as MRI compatibility and waterproofing. These are like super ideal options as we have to live with these implants for a lifetime. Advanced simultaneous bilateral cochlear implants could cost around 32,50,000 INR (approximately 39,600 USD).

Basic vs Advanced Implants

While both basic and advanced cochlear implants can achieve 100% of an individual's optimal performance, advanced implants offer slightly improved sound processing speed, clarity, and additional features like MRI compatibility and waterproofing.

Implant Longevity and Outer Component Cost

While the internal component of cochlear implant generally last a lifetime, the outer processor comes with a three-year warranty, and costs for the processor range from 3,00,000 INR to 7,00,000 INR (approximately USD 3650 to USD 8500).

Government ADIP Scheme for Free Cochlear Implants

The Government of India has taken steps to improve cochlear implant accessibility through the ADIP scheme. Under this initiative, eligible candidates can receive free surgery and basic cochlear implant and cover expenses related to medicines, surgery, and therapy.

Please refer to the official ADIP Cochlear Implant website at http://adipcochlearimplant.in for more information and scheme updates.

An article by

Dr. K. R. Meghanadh