Adenoidectomy

An adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoid glands. These glands are located above the roof of the mouth, behind the nose.

Find your ENT Request Appointment

In some patients (most often children), the adenoid glands can become swollen and enlarged, leading to chronic infections. When these glands become enlarged, they can block the airway, which can cause breathing problems, ear infections, snoring, and even sleep apnea. It can also lead to chronic nasal drainage, sinus infections, and congestion. This surgery is often performed on children between the ages of 1-7 to stop these symptoms.

How an Adenoidectomy is Performed

Before surgery, your provider will examine your child’s adenoids using an x-ray or a small camera inserted through the nose. This will enable them to see if the adenoids are swollen or enlarged. If the provider recommends the removal of the adenoids, then the surgery is scheduled. The surgery is done on an outpatient basis and uses general anesthesia. The surgeon will enter through the mouth to remove the glands and may use an electrical device to heat the tissue and stop the bleeding. After the surgery is complete most children return home the same day.

One of the best doctor’s visits I’ve EVER had. Got the answers I’ve been looking for YEARS now. Finally feel like I have a plan!

by AG

Conditions Treated by an Adenoidectomy

An adenoidectomy can remove the adenoid glands if they are too large or swollen. Removing the glands can help treat conditions such as:

Chronic congestion
Chronic nasal drainage
Chronic ear infections
Sinus infections
Snoring
Ear infections
Sleep apnea

Benefits of Adenoidectomy

This surgical procedure can help open the airways, leading to smoother breathing and sleep. Enlarged adenoids can lead to snoring and even sleep apnea, which can be challenging to manage in children. It can also help stop chronic infections, congestion, and drainage, leaving your children happier and able to enjoy their day-to-day life more. Because an adenoidectomy is a short outpatient surgery, your child will be able to recover from the comfort of your home.

About Texas ENT Specialists

At Texas ENT Specialists, we provide patients of all ages comprehensive care for ear, nose, and throat conditions. We have 15 convenient office locations across the Houston area, and we have set ourselves apart in the industry through:

Personalized Treatment

All of our treatments are tailored to meet your unique needs, leading to the best possible patient outcomes.

Top-Rated Physician Network

Each of our locations is staffed with a team of board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians that can help with any ENT concerns.

Centers of Excellence

We hold our offices to the highest standards, ensuring you have a seamless visit every time from start to finish.

Continuity of Care

We work closely with you to help you find long-term relief, never cutting corners or trying to handle things short-term.

Who Is a Candidate for an Adenoidectomy

Candidates for this procedure are those with enlarged or swollen adenoids that have created harmful side effects or chronic conditions.

Your Adenoidectomy Procedure

Before the procedure, you will meet with one of our providers so they can determine if the surgery is right for you (or your child). This will be done through an examination and questions about the symptoms. Once the surgery is ready to begin, general anesthesia will be administered. A tool will be placed in the mouth to keep it open during the surgery, and then the adenoids will be removed using a small tool. After this, an electric device may be used to stop any bleeding. Once you are awake, you will be able to return home after a few hours.

Adenoidectomy FAQ's

At what age do children receive this surgery?

The child’s age may vary, but it can be performed on children as young as one year old. The adenoids shrink around the age of seven, so it is performed less frequently after that.

How long does it take to recover from an adenoidectomy?

This will vary from person to person, but the recovery period is often short, and you should be able to resume normal activities quickly.