2023 Cost of Cochlear Implants and Surgery in India
Updated: May 27
A single unit of cochlear implants cost in India ranges from 5,30,000INR to 14,00,000INR (approximately 6,500USD to 17,000USD). This price includes the entire external and internal unit with standard accessories.
The cochlear implant surgery's surgical charges (excluding implant), could cost 1,00,000INR to 3,00,000INR (approximately 1215 USD to 3650 USD). This could include room rent, medicines, and professional charges.
Surgery should be followed with two-year-long auditory verbal therapy that could cost 1,00,000INR to 2,00,000INR (approximately 1215 USD to 2500 USD). This follow-up is not optional.
Any ENT surgeon would suggest a simultaneous bilateral cochlear implant. The second surgery expense could decrease by 10 to 15% as you get both ear surgeries done simultaneously.
So, if we go for all the basic equipment, the unilateral cochlear implant surgery, i.e., surgery for one ear only, can cost 8,00,000 INR (approximately 9,750 USD) along with the therapy.
The basic simultaneous bilateral cochlear implant surgery and therapy could cost 14,50,000 INR(around 17,700 USD).
But, if a person can afford Dr K. R. Meghanadh will suggest the best possible simultaneous bilateral cochlear implant that could cost a whooping 32,50,000 INR (approximately 39,600 USD). Advanced cochlear implants are MRI-safe up to three-tesla magnets without affecting the cochlear implants, and these implants are ideal for a lifetime.
But, if the person is financially unstable, Dr. K. R. Meghanadh suggests a bilateral sequential cochlear implant. They initially undergo one side of cochlear implant surgery followed by another implant in the future when they have money in hand. Remember, the patient will have to undergo therapy twice, although the second one might not be as tough as the first one. So, the total expense will be higher, but as the timing is crucial for cochlear implants, this should be a wise decision when there is a budget constraint.
Additionally, as mentioned in "How often do cochlear implants need to be replaced?" the internal components generally work for a lifetime. So, a patient might not require revision surgery in a lifetime. But, the outer part, i.e., the processor, has only three years warranty, and the price ranges from 3,00,000 INR to 7,00,000 INR (approximately 3650 USD to 8500 USD).
What if a patient can afford the advanced cochlear implant for one ear or a basic one for two ears at a time?
Both surgeries cost approximately the same. Then Dr. K. R. Meghanadh would strictly suggest bilateral simultaneous cochlear implants with basic implants for two ears. Even if the patient insists they can bear extra expenses for advanced cochlear implants after a few years or months, the doctor will suggest a basic simultaneous cochlear implant ASAP rather than waiting for additional money and time.
With one basic or advanced implant, the performance can reach around 80% of the ideal performance of that individual. But, even with basic bilateral simultaneous implants, the performance can get about 100% of the perfect performance of that individual.
Advanced cochlear implants have better sound processing speed. The melody and clarity of the sound received are also a shade higher. They give you additional features like MRI compatibility and waterproof features.
ADIP Scheme by the Government of India for Cochlear Implants
Under this scheme, eligible candidates can get the surgery done along with the basic cochlear implants, medicines, surgical costs, and therapy for free. Terms and Conditions will apply as per the ADIP scheme. We don't want to include these details as they are subject to changes by the Government of India.
Please refer to http://adipcochlearimplant.in for more details.
FAQs
How can I get a free cochlear implant in India?
Eligible candidates under the ADIP scheme can get free cochlear implants in India. This scheme offers cochlear implant surgery, along with the necessary medicines, surgical costs, and therapy, free of charge. It's important to note that the specific terms and conditions of the ADIP scheme may apply, and these details are subject to potential changes by the Government of India. So we recommend visiting the official website at "http://adipcochlearimplant.in" for more information and the most up-to-date details.