Acoustic Neuroma Doctor: Find the Best Specialist for Your Care

An acoustic neuroma, or vestibular schwannoma, is a noncancerous, typically slow-growing tumor that arises from the vestibulocochlear nerve covering and affects hearing and balance. A small tumor might not need immediate treatment, but a larger one can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems because of the pressure it puts on surrounding structures.

A specialist, usually a neurosurgeon or otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat) surgeon trained in performing skull base procedures, assesses your case and offers tailored treatment options.

• Observation ("watch and wait") can be used for a small tumor that is not causing symptoms.
• Microsurgery can be performed by using an endoscopic or minimally invasive approach, can be used to remove a tumor while preserving hearing and facial nerve function.
• Radiation therapy such as stereotactic radiosurgery can be used when the tumor is small, recurrent after other procedures, and/or surgery is not the optimal option for treating a tumor.

Your specialist’s proximity to you makes obtaining follow-up care easier, especially for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) monitoring or emergent intervention. Top academic centers often provide seamless, multidisciplinary care, combining neurosurgery, audiology, and radiation oncology to provide the best outcome and comprehensive support.

A globally renowned neurosurgeon who has highest expertise in surgery of complex skull base tumors, including acoustic neuromas. Dr. Cohen-Gadol is also the founder of The Neurosurgical Atlas, an extensive online resource for neurosurgeons and patients. He has performed more than 7,500 surgeries for complex brain tumors.

Esteemed professor and Chair of Neurosurgery who specializes in skull base surgery. Dr. Couldwell is known for academic leadership and publishing more than 400 scholarly publications.

Expert in skull base and acoustic neuroma surgery, he combines surgical skill with outcome and quality-of-life research. Dr. Link is well-versed in both surgical and radiosurgical approaches.

Director of Skull Base Surgery and Microsurgery & Neuroanatomy Skill Lab, Dr. Baskaya is adept at treating acoustic neuromas, as well as a broader range of skull base tumors, using microsurgical approaches.

• Extensive case experience with surgery of acoustic neuromas.
• Board certification in neurosurgery or otolaryngology with skull base specialty.
• Fellowship training in cranial base or neurotology surgery.
• Access to advanced imaging and intraoperative monitoring tools.

• What treatment pathways suit my tumor’s size and location?
• What is the chance of preserving my hearing and/or facial nerve function?
• How experienced are you with similar cases?
• What are the risks of treatment, and what should I expect during recovery?

Treatment costs vary widely; the cost for surgery is significant, whereas radiosurgery might cost less. Most insurance policies cover medically necessary procedures, but verifying coverage and requesting cost estimates in advance is essential.

No, however, a small tumor that isn’t causing any symptoms may remain stable and be safely monitored with regular imaging over time.

Recovery typically spans 4 to 6 weeks, depending on size of the tumor and the approach used to treat it. Minimally invasive surgical techniques often shorten both the hospital stay and overall recovery time.

Hearing preservation depends on size and characteristics of the tumor and the surgical approach used to remove it. Specialists aim to minimize hearing impact..

You can request consultation. Many centers offer online booking or referrals through your primary care provider or otolaryngology specialist.

• Bring all previous imaging (such as MRI scans and x-rays) and audiology reports.
• Document your symptoms and their progression.
• List your medical history and questions about treatment options.
• Verify your insurance coverage for both the consultation and potential treatment.

Get professional assistance right away. An experienced surgeon who specialises in vascular neurosurgery can assess your symptoms and provide a tailored treatment strategy.

• Contact us now at: (310) 626-1312
• Clinic Address: 8631 W. 3rd Street Suite 815E, Los Angeles, CA 90048
• Schedule a Meeting

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