Support for Acoustic Neuroma

NYU Langone doctors remain an important part of your follow-up care for acoustic neuroma.

Even if the tumor is fully removed with surgery, doctors must perform an MRI scan one to five years after treatment to ensure the tumor has not returned.

Tumors shrink gradually over time after radiation therapy, so a doctor may want you to have MRI scans more often, usually every year, to ensure that the acoustic neuroma is shrinking.

NYU Langone doctors offer support services to help you manage any challenges that may arise during and after treatment.

Hearing Device Monitoring

NYU Langone surgeons and audiologists ensure that the device you are using for hearing loss in your ear functions well. Our specialists can make any adjustments to hearing aids or address any concerns about implantable devices during follow-up appointments.

Rehabilitation

Acoustic neuromas and their treatment can affect balance and the way people function in their daily lives. Physicians at NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation evaluate you and prescribe physical therapy as needed to address such challenges. Exercise-based therapy can aid the body in correcting for a loss of balance.

In addition, Rusk Rehabilitation occupational therapists can help you restore your ability to perform certain activities of daily life, such as dressing or preparing a meal, that may have been hampered by acoustic neuroma.

Supportive and Integrative Care

Our supportive care team at NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center provides treatment for any discomfort you may experience from the acoustic neuroma—for example, facial numbness, facial pain, or headaches—or from treatment.

Our integrative therapies include acupuncture, which may relieve tumor-related pain and the fatigue caused by radiation therapy, and massage therapy, which can help reduce stress.

Facial Nerve Function

Temporary or permanent facial nerve dysfunction rarely occurs after acoustic neuroma management. If problems do arise, NYU Langone specialists provide facial nerve reanimation techniques, including nerve grafting, muscle transfer procedures, and rehabilitation, such as retraining of the facial muscles, relaxation techniques, and massage. Our surgeons also take measures to protect other structures of the face, such as the eyes and mouth.

Psychological and Social Support

Support groups and one-on-one counseling sessions with a psychologist or psychiatrist are available at Perlmutter Cancer Center. Counseling can help manage any stress or anxiety you may be experiencing as a result of acoustic neuroma or hearing loss.

Social workers are available to help you address any financial matters that may arise during your treatment or monitoring.