Adenoids and Adenoid Surgery (Adenoidectomy)

What Are Adenoids?

Adenoids are small pads of tissue located at the back of the nose, high in the throat (behind the nasal passages). They are part of the immune system and help young children fight infections by trapping germs.

Adenoids are most active in early childhood and typically shrink with age. By the teenage years, they often become very small or disappear.

Why Do Adenoids Cause Problems?

Adenoids can become enlarged or chronically infected. When this occurs, they may block airflow or contribute to other issues, including:

• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Chronic mouth breathing
• Snoring or sleep disturbances
• Frequent ear infections
• Persistent nasal congestion or drainage
• Sinus infections

If these symptoms are significant or persistent, removal of the adenoids may be recommended.

What Is an Adenoidectomy?

An adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids. It is a common and generally safe procedure, especially in children.

How Is the Surgery Performed?

• The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so the patient is fully asleep and feels no pain.
• The surgeon operates through the mouth, so there are no external incisions or visible scars.
• Specialized instruments are used to remove the adenoid tissue from the back of the nose.
• Bleeding is controlled during the procedure.
• The surgery typically takes about 15–30 minutes.
• In some cases, it is performed in combination with other procedures, such as ear tube placement or tonsillectomy.

What to Expect After Surgery

• Most patients go home the same day.
• Mild sore throat, nasal congestion, and bad breath are common for several days.
• Pain is typically mild and managed with over-the-counter medications.
• Normal activities can usually resume within a few days.

Benefits of Adenoid Removal

Many patients experience:

• Improved nasal breathing
• Better sleep quality
• Fewer ear and sinus infections
• Reduced nasal congestion

Risks

Adenoidectomy is very safe; however, as with any surgery, there are small risks, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Temporary changes in voice or nasal sound (rare)

Your surgeon will review these risks and answer any questions prior to surgery.

Post-Operative Instructions After Adenoidectomy

What to Expect

• Throat discomfort is usually minimal. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is typically sufficient for pain control.
• Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) may be recommended every 6 hours for 48–72 hours.
• Neck pain and ear pain can occur 5–7 days after surgery and usually respond to ibuprofen.
• Nasal congestion and drainage are common and may be clear, yellow, or brown. These symptoms typically resolve within 7–10 days.
• Bad breath is common and may last up to 3 weeks. Saline nasal spray, chewing gum, or hard candy may help.
• A low-grade fever (99–101°F) may occur, especially with decreased fluid intake.

Activity

• Rest at home is recommended for the first 1–2 days.
• Avoid vigorous activity for 3–4 days.
• Activity can gradually return to normal after this period.
• Overexertion too soon may cause mild nasal bleeding.

Diet

• Clear liquids can be started immediately after surgery.
• Advance to a normal diet as tolerated.

Follow-Up

A routine post-operative appointment is usually not required unless there are concerns or questions.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if any of the following occur:

• Fever greater than 102°F or fever that does not respond to acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Significant or persistent bleeding from the nose
• Severe neck pain or pain not improving within 48–72 hours
• Any concerning or worsening symptoms

Emergency Room

If you need to go the Emergency Room, please follow the guidelines below:

• Patients 16 years and older: Centennial Medical Center Frisco
• Patients under 16 years: Children’s Medical Center Plano