False.
Today's cochlear implant surgery is a relatively minor operation of just a few hours. Children who have had the surgery have been known to go home immediately afterwards, playing normally with minimal post-surgical effects. The surgery has the same normal risks associated with any surgery, and serious complications are rare. Meningitis has been shown to be a risk, and patients should take steps to reduce that risk, such as being vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers suggestions for reducing the risk of meningitis on their website.
Prior to Surgery
The implant candidate is anesthetized with a general anesthesia.Preparing for Operation
Some hair is shaved off where the surgery will be done. This is usually a small amount of hair. The area shaved is behind the ear.Making the Cut
An incision is made and the skin and tissue flap is lifted so that the surgeon can drill into the skull bone behind the ear. A receiver is placed into the drilled-out area and an electrode array is inserted into the cochlea.Closing Up
The surgical area is closed up with stitches (a small permanent scar may result) and the head is bandaged.After Surgery
Depending on the length of the surgery and other factors, the patient may either be sent home shortly after surgery or have to stay in the hospital for a short while.Recovery Period
During the recuperation from the surgery, there may be minimal side effects such as temporary swelling. Side effects are minor if they do occur and generally temporary: pain, changes in taste, dizziness, inflammation, bleeding, etc.Photographic illustrations
Plenty of graphic photographs (Not for the squeamish. These photographs show blood and tissue.) of implant surgery are available online.If you have pictures of your cochlear implant surgery to submit for a photo gallery of implant surgery, please contact me at deafness.guide@about.com.
