Learn about Vestibular Schwannoma Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Vestibular Schwannoma and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Vestibular Schwannoma

Vestibular schwannoma surgery is a specialized neurosurgical procedure performed by an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon, often in collaboration with a neurosurgeon, to remove a benign tumor that grows on the vestibular nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain. This tumor, also known as an acoustic neuroma, can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems. The primary goal is to completely remove the tumor while preserving facial nerve function and, if possible, hearing. The approach, such as translabyrinthine, retrosigmoid, or middle fossa, is carefully chosen based on the tumor's size, location, and the patient's hearing status. This procedure is crucial for preventing further neurological damage and managing symptoms effectively.

Key Highlights

    Aims for complete tumor removal to prevent further growth and neurological complications.Performed with a focus on preserving critical facial nerve function to maintain facial movement and expression.In select cases, strives to preserve existing hearing function depending on the surgical approach and tumor characteristics.Effectively alleviates symptoms like tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, and balance issues.Utilizes advanced microsurgical techniques and intraoperative monitoring for enhanced precision and safety.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Progressive or significant hearing loss in one ear (asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss).
  • Growth of a vestibular schwannoma on serial MRI scans.
  • Tumor size causing brainstem compression or increased intracranial pressure.
  • Intractable symptoms such as severe tinnitus, vertigo, or balance disturbances affecting quality of life.
  • Patient preference for definitive treatment over observation (watchful waiting) or radiation therapy.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including audiological tests (audiogram) and high-resolution MRI of the internal auditory canals.
  • Consultation with the surgical team (ENT and neurosurgeon) to discuss the chosen surgical approach, goals, and risks.
  • Pre-operative tests such as blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray to ensure fitness for anesthesia.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin) as advised by the doctor.
  • Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to the surgery as per hospital protocol.

Risks & possible complications

  • Complete or partial hearing loss in the affected ear, especially with certain surgical approaches.
  • Facial weakness or paralysis due to proximity of the tumor to the facial nerve.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which may require additional treatment.
  • Headaches, dizziness, and balance issues during the recovery period.
  • Rare risks include meningitis, stroke, or bleeding (hematoma).

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay for monitoring of neurological function, pain management, and management of any nausea or dizziness.
  • Gradual mobilization with assistance; dizziness is common and improves over weeks.
  • Incision care instructions to keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection.
  • Follow-up appointments for wound check, audiological evaluation, and possibly facial nerve assessment.
  • Avoidance of strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and blowing the nose forcefully for several weeks to prevent CSF leak.
  • Possible referral for vestibular rehabilitation therapy to aid with balance recovery.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-7 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; up to 6-12 months for full stabilization of symptoms like balance

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering vestibular schwannoma in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for vestibular schwannoma compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 350 Thousand – 800 Thousand 5-7 days ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; up to 6-12 months for full stabilization of symptoms like balance Know More
Turkey TRY 1.23 Million – 2.8 Million 5-7 days ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; up to 6-12 months for full stabilization of symptoms like balance Know More

Top hospitals for Vestibular Schwannoma in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated ent teams and experience managing patients undergoing vestibular schwannoma.

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Manipal Hospital Dwarka

  • IconDelhi, India
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2478+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Jayanagar

  • IconBangalore, India
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91+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

  • IconBangalore, India
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1837+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Salem

  • IconSalem, India
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5734+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Siliguri

  • IconSiliguri, India
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98+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur

  • IconBangalore, India
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65+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

  • IconKolkata, India
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135+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Goa

  • IconPanaji, India
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12320+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road

  • IconBangalore, India
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185+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Ranchi

  • IconRanchi, India
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872+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Millers Road

  • IconBangalore, India
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418+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Hebbal

  • IconBangalore, India
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418+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Hebbal

  • IconBangalore, India
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156+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Patiala

  • IconPatiala, India
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181+ Rating

KMC Hospital Mangalore

  • IconMangalore, India
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PATIENT REVIEW

Amit Reddy, a 42-year-old software architect...

Amit Reddy, a 42-year-old software architect and father of two, first noticed a persistent ringing in his right ear six months ago. Over time, he developed subtle balance issues, feeling unsteady when turning his head quickly, and a concerning 30% hearing loss in that ear confirmed by an audiogram. His ENT, Dr. Sharma, ordered an MRI which revealed a 1.8 cm vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma) on his right vestibular nerve. Dr. Sharma explained the benign but growing tumor was causing his symptoms and recommended surgical removal via a retrosigmoid approach to preserve his facial nerve function and attempt hearing preservation. Amit underwent the 8-hour surgery, waking up with significant right-sided hearing loss as anticipated, but with intact facial movement, a huge relief. His recovery involved a week in the hospital managing dizziness and imbalance with vestibular therapy. Three months later, while adapting to single-sided deafness with a CROS hearing aid, his balance has greatly improved and the tinnitus has lessened. Emotionally, he moved from initial fear for his career and family stability to gratitude for the skilled surgical team and a determined focus on rehabilitation, valuing his health and family more deeply.

ENT Specialists for Vestibular Schwannoma

Explore experienced ent specialists who regularly perform vestibular schwannoma and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Muthu kumar s
  • 16 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Tamil, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai

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Dr. Gayatri Pandit
  • 21 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Diptarka Bhattacharyya
  • 14 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore

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Dr. J Jayabaskar
  • 9 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 500
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salem, Salem

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shalina Ray
  • 26 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 450
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Anitha Kumari AM
  • 24 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 500
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vijay Rangachari
  • 21 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 500
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

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Dr. Alok Banka
  • 18 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

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Dr. EV Raman
  • 43 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

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Dr. Girish Rai
  • 38 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Bathi Reddy
  • 36 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Anitha Kumari AM
  • 24 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Satish Nair
  • 29 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Parvinderjit Singh Kohli
  • 20 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vishal Sharma
  • 10 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 450
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala

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Dr. Praveen Kumar R
  • 14 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore

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Dr. Dathathri HA
  • 14 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore

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Dr. Arun Raykar N Raykar
  • 19 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore

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Dr. Shalini Bansal
  • 8 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 550
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Pune

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Dr. Shanthala MN
  • 26 Years Experience
  • ENT Specialist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated