Best Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Surgeons

Choosing the best surgeon to treat superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) is one of the most important decisions a patient with this rare inner-ear condition can make. SSCD, also known as superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome, can significantly affect balance, hearing, and quality of life. Because the condition is complex and treating it involves surgery on delicate structures of the inner ear and skull base, outcomes depend heavily on the surgeon’s experience, precision, and multidisciplinary expertise.

This article highlights some of the most respected otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat [ENT] doctors) and neurosurgeons known for treating SSCD. It also explains why specialized care matters and answers common questions patients have about diagnosis, treatment, and surgical success rates. This guide is designed to help patients and their families make an informed decision.

SSCD surgery is not routinely performed by all ENT surgeons and neurosurgeons. The best outcomes are typically achieved by specialists who focus on skull base surgery, neurotology, and complex ear disorders. Below is a list of widely recognized surgeons who have contributed significantly to SCD treatment and research and to the advancement of SSCD care overall.

Dr. Cohen-Gadol is a world-renowned neurosurgeon known for his expertise in complex skull base and minimally invasive brain surgery. He has treated patients from across the globe suffering from challenging neurological and otologic conditions, including SSCD. His meticulous surgical approach and strong focus on patient education and safety make him a leading figure in this field.

Dr. Nazarian complements this expertise as a highly respected ENT doctor and neurotologist with specialized training in inner-ear and hearing disorders. Together, Drs. Cohen-Gadol and Nazarian form a world-class multidisciplinary team that addresses both the neurological and otologic aspects of SSCD. Their collaborative approach is particularly valuable for patients with severe or complex symptoms, ensuring comprehensive evaluation, precise surgical planning, and coordinated postoperative care.

Patients seeking access to the best surgical treatment for their SSCD often value this dual-specialty model because it reduces risks and improves functional outcomes related to hearing and balance.

Dr. Yang is a neurosurgeon with a strong focus on skull base surgery and minimally invasive techniques. He has extensive experience working alongside ENT specialists to treat disorders that affect the interface between the brain and inner ear. His surgical philosophy emphasizes the preservation of neurological function while addressing the root cause of symptoms.

Dr. Gopen is an accomplished neurotologist and ENT surgeon specializing in disorders of the ear and lateral skull base. He has published articles and lectured extensively on SSCD, making him a trusted authority in the field. Together, Drs. Yang and Gopen provide a comprehensive surgical solution for patients with SSCD, combining neurosurgical precision with advanced ear surgery expertise.

Dr. Carey is one of the recognized names in the study and treatment of SSCD. As a neurotologist, he has been deeply involved in both clinical care and academic research related to inner-ear disorders. His work has helped define diagnostic criteria and refine surgical techniques for patients with SSCD.

Patients treated by Dr. Carey benefit from his decades of experience and deep understanding of vestibular physiology. He is often sought out by patients with complex or atypical symptoms who require a nuanced diagnostic approach before they proceed with surgery.

Dr. Minor is widely credited as a pioneer in identifying and describing SSCD. His early research brought global attention to the condition and laid the foundation for modern diagnostic and surgical strategies.

As a neurotologist, Dr. Minor has treated countless patients with SSCD and related vestibular disorders. His legacy continues to influence how surgeons worldwide approach SSCD treatment, making him an essential figure in any discussion of the best SSCD surgeons.

Dr. Kaylie is an experienced ENT surgeon and neurotologist with a strong background in lateral skull base surgery. He is known for his patient-centered approach and careful surgical technique when addressing inner-ear disorders such as SSCD.

Dr. Kaylie’s work emphasizes individualized treatment planning, recognizing that not all patients with radiographic dehiscence require surgery. For those who do, his expertise helps optimize hearing preservation and balance outcomes.

For many patients, accessing a surgeon with extensive experience in SSCD surgery can be challenging, especially given how rare the condition is. Dr. Cohen-Gadol offers a unique opportunity for patients worldwide to benefit from his decades of surgical experience.

Dr. Cohen-Gadol’s practice is known for treating complex cases that often involve overlapping neurosurgical and ENT conditions. Through collaboration with specialized neurotologists, patients receive a comprehensive evaluation that includes advanced imaging, symptom correlation, and personalized treatment recommendations.

International and out-of-state patients often seek Dr. Cohen-Gadol’s care because of his emphasis on clear communication, detailed preoperative planning, and long-term follow-up. This global reach enables patients who may not have access to an SSCD surgeon locally to receive expert guidance and care.

SSCD is typically treated by a neurotologist (an ENT specialist with advanced training in inner-ear and skull base disorders) and, in many cases, a neurosurgeon. Because the affected ear canal lies close to the brain, collaborative care between an ENT specialist and a neurosurgeon is often considered the gold standard, particularly for those who need surgical treatment.

Patients with mild symptoms may be managed conservatively at first by an ENT specialist, whereas those with severe balance issues, hearing distortion, and/or neurological symptoms are often referred to a multidisciplinary team.

SSCD surgery generally has a high success rate when it is performed by an experienced surgeon. Studies and clinical experience suggest that 70% to 90% of patients experience significant improvement in their primary symptoms, such as sound- or pressure-induced dizziness, autophony, and imbalance.

Outcomes depend on several factors, including the surgeon’s experience, the chosen surgical approach, and the patient’s overall health. Selecting the best SSCD surgeon is critical. Complications are relatively uncommon in expert hands but can include hearing changes, balance disturbances, or cerebrospinal fluid leaks.

Surgery for SSCD is most commonly performed by ENT surgeons (neurotologists), often in collaboration with neurosurgeons. Neurologists typically play a diagnostic and referral role but do not usually perform the surgery themselves.

The involvement of a neurosurgeon is especially important when the surgical approach involves the middle cranial fossa or when there are additional neurological considerations. This team-based approach helps ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.

SSCD is a highly specialized condition that requires equally specialized care. Identifying the best SSCD surgeon means looking for extensive experience, a strong multidisciplinary team, and a proven track record of successful outcomes. The surgeons highlighted in this article represent some of the most respected experts in the field, offering hope and improved quality of life to patients affected by this challenging disorder.

The clinic is located at Cedars Towers East which is at 8631 W 3rd Street, Suite 815E, Los Angeles, CA 90048, near Beverly Grove. It’s easily accessible from San Vicente Boulevard or La Cienega Boulevard. Paid parking is available in the adjacent structure and limited street parking can be found nearby. For navigation, entering “8631 W 3rd St” into the GPS will direct you to the main entrance. 

The entrance to the Cedars Towers East parking garage is on Sherbourne Drive, located just north of 3rd Street. It is a self-parking garage with the address 217 S Sherbourne Dr, Los Angeles, CA. The entrance is on the right if you are traveling south on Sherbourne, or on the left if you are traveling north on Sherbourne. You then need to take the parking elevators to the plaza level and then cross the short bridge to use the East elevators to reach the 8th floor (suite 815.) Allow extra time for traffic and parking, especially during weekday mornings.