The surgery for Esteem® implantation involves the usual techniques for mastoid surgery in addition to an extended facial recess surgical approach to access the ossicular chain. An incision is made behind the ear to allow access to the middle ear space. During the implant procedure, the ossicular chain is disarticulated (surgically separated). The tip of the Sensor and Driver extend into the middle ear. The surgeon connects the Sensor and Driver to your incus and stapes, respectively. The Sound Processor is implanted behind the ear, under the scalp. Insulated wires connect the Sound Processor to the Sensor and Driver.

For approximatley six to eight weeks after surgery, you will not be able to hear through the ear in which Esteem® is implanted. This is due to the fact that your Esteem® will not yet be activated. Your physician will determine when Esteem® can be “turned-on” or activated.

Once Esteem® is implanted, it is completely invisible to others, and does not interfere with bathing, showering, swimming, or other normal physical activities.

What to Expect

Although all surgery is serious, the type of ear surgery used to implant Esteem® is rarely dangerous. The surgical risks should be considered. Middle ear surgery is done for many purposes. Patients must carefully read and understand all risks associated with implantation described in subsequent pages of this brochure. The hospital stay for Esteem® implantation is generally brief or considered an outpatient procedure. As mentioned above, there is a glossary located after the Table of Contents in this brochure for clarification of medical terms that may be unfamiliar to you.

Patients report that for several days after the surgery, you may have some tenderness, but very little pain. After healing, the surgical incision is nearly invisible, appearing as a thin line that is generally hidden by your hair. After your procedure, your surgeon can determine when you should return to have your sutures removed from your incision if necessary. Your surgeon will provide you with post-operative instructions that should be followed.

 The following profile pictures show the implanted ear of several actual Esteem® implant patients after healing of the surgical incision.