Risks

Predicted outcomes

Cochlear implant surgery is generally safe. Risks of cochlear implantation can include:

• Loss of residual hearing. Implantation of the device can cause a loss of any remaining, unclear, natural hearing in the implanted ear in some people.
• Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) after cochlear implant surgery. Vaccinations to reduce the risk of meningitis are generally given to adults and children before implantation.
• Failure of device. Surgery may sometimes be needed to repair or replace a faulty internal device.

Complications are rare and can include:

• Bleeding
• Facial paralysis
• Infection at the surgery site
• Device infection
• Balance problems
• Dizziness
• Taste disturbance
• New or worsened ear noise (tinnitus)
• Spinal fluid leak