Merging world-class surgical expertise with an integrative holistic approach for hearing and balance.
Educated in Berlin and trained across the globe, Dr. Ilka Naumann brings a unique perspective to otology. She combines precise surgical skills with a deep commitment to comprehensive patient-centered care.
Read Full BioOtolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery & Otology/Neuro-Otology
in Human Genetics on Neurofibromatosis
Otology/Neuro-Otology &
Integrative Medicine
Michigan State University &
Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
Comprehensive care for the Ear, Hearing and Balance, using leading edge technology based on the latest scientific insights.
Long-term integrative solutions for infections and cholesteatoma.
Surgical correction of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Comprehensive interpretation of diagnostic tests and treatment of vestibular disorder.
Second opinion for complex surgical management of tumors of the ear and lateral skull base.
Dr. Naumann advocates for comprehensive patient care, addressing not only ear symptoms but also the underlying causes of health issues, in order to facilitate long-term healing. Her postgraduate training in Integrative Medicine with Dr. Andrew Weil provided her with a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of human experiences and the environment, leading her to develop the most individualistic and holistic approach to hearing and balance disorders.
Root Cause and Functional Medicine approach to support Ear Health and Immunity.
Mind-body techniques to manage vertigo and tinnitus.
Board Certified in Otolaryngic Allergies, offering needle free sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).
"Dr. Naumann is an outstanding ENT specialist! She takes the time to truly listen and explain everything clearly to her patients. Her professionalism and compassion set her apart. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the office runs smoothly. I highly recommend Dr. Naumann for anyone needing expert care for any ear concerns."
Wylene Jackson
ENT Care
"Dr. Neumann has been instrumental in helping me treat my menieres for the past 9 years. My menieres was due to an auto accident, and she helped me get hearing aids and gave me tips in regards to living with menieres. There isn't a cure, but I am able to live a full life. Thank you, Dr. Naumann!"
Karen Alexander
Ménière's Disease
"Dr Naumann has helped me for the past year and a half with my Ménière's disease. She has an expansive integrative approach and uses all the Westerm medicine tools at her disposal. She also works with other doctors and recommended a superior osteopath to work with as well. I highly recommend her."
Amy Sheaffer
Integrative Care
Across continents and over two decades, Dr. Naumann's path has been defined by global training, scientific excellence, and an unwavering commitment to advancing patient‐centered Neuro-Otologic care.
Board Certified Otologist & Neurotologist
"I believe that exceptional patient care begins with listening deeply, thinking broadly, and combining surgical precision with compassionate, integrative, and evidence‐based treatment tailored to each individual."
- Dr. Ilka Naumann
Educated in Berlin, Germany, Dr. Naumann earned both her medical degree and her PhD in Genetics (Magna Cum Laude), establishing a strong foundation in both molecular science and clinical medicine.
Her research led her to dive deep into the genetics of Neurofibromatosis.
Searching for the perfect match for her analytical mind, keen observational skills, and meticulous surgical precision, Dr. Naumann found her calling in Otolaryngology. While pursuing further studies in Switzerland, Dr. Naumann had the privilege of being mentored by Professor Dr. Ugo Fisch, widely regarded as the pioneer of modern Otology. This transformative experience profoundly impacted her career trajectory and ignited an enduring passion for Otology and Neuro-Otology.
Dr. Naumann completed her residency in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at Indiana University, where she built a strong foundation in comprehensive ENT care and advanced surgical techniques. Immersed in a high‐volume, academically rigorous environment, she refined her clinical judgment, technical precision, and commitment to academic excellence that continues to shape her practice today.
She completed her fellowship in Neurotology at the Michigan Ear Institute (MEI), one of the world's leading centers for advanced otologic and skull base surgery. In this highly specialized environment, she trained in complex ear surgery, hearing restoration, cochlear implantation, management of chronic ear disease, facial nerve disorders, and lateral skull base tumors.
Learning from years of clinical practice and careful listening to her patients, Dr. Naumann came to recognize that while ear surgery can restore hearing and is essential for many conditions, chronic balance disorders often demand a far more nuanced and comprehensive approach. Seeking a more integrative understanding, she pursued and completed a two‐year Fellowship in Integrative Medicine through the University of Arizona under the leadership of Dr. Andrew Weil.
Dr. Naumann has held esteemed academic positions, including serving as an Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology and Neurosurgery at Tufts Medical Center in Boston from 2011 to 2012.
Since 2012 Dr Naumann serves as a Core Faculty member at the Otolaryngology residency program at the Detroit Medical Center and Harper Hospital, a staff physician at the Michigan Ear Institute, and Clinical Associate Professor at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic and Human Medicine and the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine.
Dr. Naumann's philosophy is grounded in precision, intellectual curiosity, and deep respect for the individuality of each patient. Her approach integrates advanced neuro‐otologic expertise with evidence‐based mind–body strategies and a food‐first philosophy, empowering patients to actively participate in their care.
Explore the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative MedicineClick to expand book chapters and research details
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins • 2nd Edition
Springer
Contribution: Facial nerve schwannoma, hemangioma, and other neoplasms.
Jaypee Brothers
Contribution: Surgery for Petrous Apex Lesions.
Springer
Contribution: Allergic Disease.
Springer
Contribution: Integrative Management of Otitis Media in Children.
Dr. Naumann's research reflects her breadth and depth as a neurotologist and academic surgeon. Her publications cover novel otologic implant technology, stapes surgery, ossicular reconstruction, BPPV, Ménière's disease, vestibular and facial schwannomas.
Her work bridges clinical outcome research, surgical innovation, otologic implant safety, and molecular testing. Through these contributions, Dr. Naumann advances both the scientific understanding and surgical management of disorders affecting hearing and balance.
Dr. Naumann is a sought‐after international speaker. Her lectures cover topics on advanced otologic and skull base surgery, vestibular and migraine disorders, facial nerve pathology, implant safety, and integrative medical topics. She has been invited to teach courses, grand rounds, and instructional sessions across the US and Europe.
Her presentations are recognized for translating complex neurotologic concepts into practical, evidence‐based strategies - whether addressing Ménière's disease, sudden hearing loss, or MRI safety. Dr. Naumann is known for championing physician well‐being, ergonomics, and global outreach, contributing meaningfully to the continued evolution of the practice of Neuro-Otology.
Comprehensive evaluation, advanced diagnostic testing, and definitive surgical treatment for complex ear and balance disorders.
Dr Naumann performs all surgeries under microscopic magnification and uses the endoscope (endoscopic ear surgery) or the Orb eye (3D exoscope system). Learn more.
Dr. Naumann uses active and real-time intraoperative facial nerve monitoring for all surgeries - No compromises.
Restoring hearing through advanced technology and microsurgery.
Surgical solution for severe to profound hearing loss.
Laser microsurgery for hardening the third hearing bone (stapes)
Solutions (such as BAHA, Osia and Sentio) for conductive hearing loss or single-sided deafness.
Emergency evaluation and intratympanic steroid treatments to salvage hearing.
Comprehensive vestibular evaluation and personalized treatment plans.
Management with Lifestyle Changes, Supplements, Medications but also intratympanic injections to surgical treatments of Endolymphatic sac decompression and labyrinthectomy.
Learn moreComprehensive diagnostic workup and surgical repair for patients with uncontrollable sound induced dizziness.
Learn moreRoot cause diagnostic workup and integrative approach for management.
Learn moreSolutions for recurring infections and perforations.
Removal of skin cyst growing in the middle ear and mastoid.
Using artificial hearing bones to rebuild the hearing mechanism with PORP and TORP prostheses.
Surgical repair of perforated ear drums.
Surgical removal of infection or disease from the mastoid bone behind the ear, performed using intact canal wall, canal wall reconstruction, or inside‑out tympanomastoidectomy techniques, depending on the extent of disease.
Treatment of Middle Ear Fluid with Tympanostomy Tubes, Long‑Term Ventilation Tubes, and Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation.
Fellowship‑Trained Neurotologic Expertise in the Advanced Evaluation and Coordinated Care of Lateral Skull Base Tumors.
Microsurgical removal or observation.
Management of vascular middle ear tumors.
Diagnosis and management of facial nerve disorders.
Many minor ear procedures can be performed under local anesthesia in the office and do not require general anesthesia.
Tula Tubes (For children)Placement of tympanostomy tubes and permanent tubes for ventilation and drainage.
Minimally invasive balloon dilation for Eustachian tube dysfunction.
In-office repair of small holes or perforations in the eardrum.
Targeted delivery of steroids to the inner ear for hearing loss or vertigo management.
Whether you need complex surgery or a second opinion, Dr. Naumann provides expert care with a compassionate touch.
Watch the inspiring journeys of patients who found their balance and hearing again.
Please check back shortly!
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Patient 1
Patient since 2023
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— Patient 2
"Dr Naumann was very kind and took very good care of me with my ear problems. She understands my sensitive ears and gave me some solutions. Thank you Dr Naumann for everything!!"
— Donnalou Hopkinson
"Dr. Ilka Naumann is hands down the best ear doctor mom been going for the past year. She's incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and took the time to really listen and explain everything clearly. Mom left feeling confident and cared for highly recommend"
— Fadi Gorji
"Wonderful doctor!! I have been a patient at this practice for 35 years and had multiple surgeries. Recently switched from an older doc in the practice to Dr. Neumann and have been very impressed with results. Latest surgery resulted in improved hearing. Dr Naumann has a great bedside manner and listens to and answers all concerns. Highly recommended!!"
— elizabeth robert
"Very kind staff, the entire process moved along so nicely without feeling rushed. Dr. Naumann took time to take my medical history, do the exam and explain everything in a way that a patient (a non-practitioner) can understand. She was very friendly so I felt relaxed and able to ask all my questions."
— Barbara Flis
"Dr. Naumann is a literal life saver. If only all doctors were this caring and conscientious. Last year, a sudden debilitating loss of balance afflicted me. I am 52 and otherwise was very healthy. It was as if the ground was unstable..."
— Danielle Sharon
"Of all the doctors I've seen in all of my life, Dr. Naumann connects in such a way that displays her sincere dedication to my health! She doesn't want to just treat my Meniere's disease, but also mitigate the extreme symptoms that come with this disease such. What a breath of fresh air!"
— Karen Brandelik
"Dr Naumann is the FIRST Dr I've had who was concerned about my overall health!!! Most Drs write you a rx and send you on your way, but not Dr Naumann!!!! She asks the important questions; how's your diet, do you exercise... She is the BEST!!!"
— Monica Robinson
"Dr. Naumann is incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate. The care she has provided to my husband, myself, and now our daughter has been exceptional. We wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of her expertise."
— Beth Raymer
"Dr. Naumann is an outstanding ENT specialist! She takes the time to truly listen and explain everything clearly to her patients. Her professionalism and compassion set her apart."
— Wylene Jackson
"Dr Naumann has helped me for the past year and a half with my Ménière's disease. She has an expansive integrative approach and uses all the Western medicine tools at her disposal... I highly recommend her."
— Amy Sheaffer
"Dr. Naumann has been helping me to deal with vertigo. She is very knowledgeable and with the help of the Omniax Chair I am doing well.."
— Barbara Straith
"Dr Naumann is very holistic in her approach. Very thankful I transitioned care to her as I am feeling much better."
— Tammy T
"I transferred my disabled family member's ENT care to Dr. Naumann at MEI. Dr. Naumann is consistently kind, compassionate, and patient. She is a good listener is a very well rounded physician. She is an excellent provider for ear care and I highly recommend her."
— deena gelfond
"Dr. Naumann is an excellent Dr., she genuinely care about your medical concerns, she take time and she has a beautiful spirit and cares about your hearing concerns and needs."
— Quiet Storm
"Just had my 6 month check up for my Cochlear implant. Doctor Naumann is more than a Doctor she's your. Best friend. Terrific manner and knowledge. She needs to change to family practices.lol We would gladly drive the hour plus. Thanks again."
— BRUCE COUTURE
"Dr. Naumann is a caring doctor. Great bedside manner. The office staff friendly and professional"
— Brenda Lee
"Since my friend referred me to Dr Naumann I see a significant improvement in my ear health. The care at the visit is extremely efficient and kind. Thank you!"
— Itty Shemtov
"Michigan Ear Institute deserves 10 stars, the level of service is extraordinary and the patient care exceeded my expectations. Dr. Naumann answered all my questions, explained my condition and the surgery required, was kind, compassionate and I felt truly secure in her care."
— Kathy Meneghin
"Dr Naumann is an exceptional doctor . She is amazing !!!! I give her 10 stars... I've been a nurse for over 30 years and when it comes to looking for a doctor who is kind , knowledgeable, and goes above and beyond to find out all your health issues , Dr Naumann is that Doctor."
— Mary Ann Moriarty
"Dr. Naumann is an excellent doctor who quickly diagnosed and treated my ear problem. My hearing is much better as a result. Thanks to Dr. Naumann and her excellent staff."
— Daniel Shere
"After seeing four different ENT specialists with zero results, I finally found Dr. Naumann— she diagnosed my issue immediately and started treatment that made me feel better within minutes. Her ability to catch what others missed is..."
— Masum Chowdhury
"My recent experience of surgery performed by Dr. Ilka Naumann at the Michigan Ear Institute went very well... Dr. Naumann took additional time to explain the procedure in detail, building my confidence... I can whole heartedly recommend Dr. Ilka Naumann. Wish I could give ten stars."
— Sally Erickson Wilson
"Dr. Ilka Naumann is fantastic! I'm grateful for her professional help. She explained every detail very well to my satisfaction. The treatments and the surgery were very professional. I would highly recommend Dr Neumann without a doubt!"
— Silvia Lohmeyer
"As a mother, there's nothing more heartbreaking than watching your child suffer... After trying every possible route, we were finally referred to Dr. Naumann, and I can truly say she was the answer to our prayers... She is a gifted ENT and a truly kind soul."
— Dominika
"Dr Naumann was very professional and informed. I had a great interaction with her. She appears to be very concerned about the welfare of her patients overall health"
— Kenneth Jordan