A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving hearing by irradiating the cochlea with a laser beam. In one embodiment, an apparatus for improving hearing comprises a laser source that emits at least one laser beam to irradiate at least a portion of a basilar membrane (10). The laser source emits the at least one laser beam under suitable conditions to change a frequency response of the basilar membrane. In an embodiment, the laser source irradiates the cochlea at a defined pulse duration to change the physical properties of the cochlea. The irradiated portion of the cochlea may be the basilar membrane.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TUNING OF THE COCHLEA