Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 3/27/2009

Question
Hello.
My name is Kyle and I was recently discharged from the Marine Corps because I was diagnosed with a cholesteatoma in the left ear. I have had a rough childhood when it comes to my ears, having 2 surgeries on my right ear and now this with my left. I am working on trying to find a job that provides health insurance but so far no luck, im just working. Can you ballpark the cost of  surgery to correct a cholesteatoma? I am not asking for an exact price but anything to get an idea. I have read all about cholesteatomas and realize how serious it is but I just need some of your knowledge and a little luck.
Thanks
Kyle

Answer
Hi Kyle,
I cannot even begin to guess the cost...especially since there are just too many variables.  Do you get any VA benefits?  You may also want to investigate if there are any teaching hospitals nearby.  Many of them will do some pro bono or reduced rate work.  But in any case, any surgery is expensive if you consider the cost of a hospital room, medicines, anaesthesia, use of the entire surgical team, the surgeon's fee, the after surgical care.  You should probably start with a consultation with a surgeon, explain your situation, and he could give you a much better estimate.

Good luck.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiologu