Studies, that I've read, have shown the location, NOT the size, is more indicative of symptoms, and after you have significant hearing loss, it's an indicator the hearing loss will be permanent. As indicated by CitiView, unless, your AN is extremely large, urgent surgery is almost NEVER required, and while it's tough to grasp, most likely will NOT change the outcome. Keep in mind, from the time I was diagnosed, to my surgery was about 2 months (45 mm AN). I lost the ability to produce tears during this time, which was a clear indication of the damage to my facial nerve. However, my facial nerve was severely damaged and my outcome would have been the same if I had my surgery the day I was diagnosed.
"Against the cochlear", doesn't sound to be a major issue compared to the host of other issues that can be attributed to the AN. I don't see anything that should give you a major concern. Normally, the ENT will be responsible for clearing out the tumor in and around the ear as well as opening / closing the skull. As the tumor grows, the neurosurgeon will be more focused on removed from inside the brain. Therefore, for a small AN, the ENT will take the lead, while a large AN will be lead by the neurosurgeon.
In the end, schedule a second consult at one of the major centers and as recommended by the others, radiation should also be a consideration. Miami is NOT considered a major center. I live in Delray Beach, and went to John Hopkins.
