How is VNS Therapy different from Deep TMS?

Deep TMS is non-invasive and external. VNS requires a minor surgical implant of a small device that delivers continuous electrical pulses to the vagus nerve. VNS is typically considered after other treatments including TMS have been tried.

Is VNS Therapy covered by insurance?

VNS is covered by Medicare and many commercial insurers for treatment-resistant depression and epilepsy when specific criteria are met, including documented failure of multiple treatment approaches.

What are the side effects of VNS Therapy?

Common side effects include voice changes or hoarseness (especially during stimulation), cough, throat discomfort, and shortness of breath. Most side effects are mild and manageable.

Where is the VNS device implanted and is it visible?

The pulse generator is implanted under the skin in the chest, similar to a pacemaker. A thin wire connects it to the vagus nerve in the neck. The device is not visible externally.

Will I still need to take medications with VNS?

VNS is used as an adjunct therapy and is typically combined with ongoing medication management. The goal over time may be to reduce medications as VNS takes effect.

How long does VNS take to show results?

VNS is a gradual therapy. Most patients begin noticing mood improvement between 3-12 months of continuous stimulation, with benefits continuing to accumulate over years of treatment.

Advanced Neuromodulation

VNS Therapy in Newport Beach & San Juan Capistrano, CA

Vagus Nerve Stimulation using the LivaNova Symmetry™ System—an FDA-cleared, implantable neuromodulation therapy for treatment-resistant depression and epilepsy.

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Understanding VNS

What is VNS Therapy?

Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Therapy uses an implanted device to send mild electrical pulses through the vagus nerve to the brain. The LivaNova Symmetry™ System represents the latest generation of VNS technology, offering improved outcomes for patients with treatment-resistant depression who have not responded to medication, therapy, or other interventions. At Resiliency, we evaluate candidates for VNS and provide ongoing management and optimization of the device.

FDA-cleared for treatment-resistant depression
LivaNova Symmetry™ System technology
Complementary to other treatments (Deep TMS, medication)

Realistic VNS Therapy stability and care

FDA

Cleared Device

The Science

How VNS Therapy Works

Understanding the three key principles behind Vagus Nerve Stimulation therapy.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation

A small pulse generator implanted under the skin sends regular electrical impulses through the vagus nerve to mood-regulating brain regions.

Neural Modulation

These pulses help regulate neurotransmitter systems including serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA that are disrupted in depression.

Progressive Improvement

Benefits typically build gradually over months as the brain's neural circuits are progressively modulated.

The Vagus Nerve

What is the Vagus Nerve?

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, running from the brain all the way to the large intestine. It plays a critical role in regulating many of the body's most important functions.

Mood regulation

Digestion

Heart rate & blood pressure

Respiration

Immune responses

Sensory perception

Speech & taste

Mucus & saliva production

Your Journey

The VNS Treatment Process

Evaluation & Candidacy

Our team conducts a thorough psychiatric evaluation to determine if VNS is appropriate based on your treatment history, diagnosis, and overall health. We manage insurance prior authorization, which typically requires a 6-month process handled by the manufacturer.

Outpatient Implantation

The device is surgically implanted during an outpatient procedure lasting 1-2 hours under general anesthesia. A pacemaker-like pulse generator is placed under the skin below the left collarbone, connected to a wire along the vagus nerve. Same-day discharge is typical.

Programming & Ongoing Care

Programming and pulse adjustments are performed in-office and are quick and painless. Your physician adjusts the electrical pulse frequency and duration for optimal results. VNS is an adjunctive long-term treatment—you continue your existing therapies alongside it.