TreatmentChildren's ENT
Adenoid surgery
Adenoid surgery removes tissue behind the nose when it causes important breathing or ear problems. It is mainly performed in children and is also called an adenoidectomy.
ENT care in Bandra, MumbaiAbout Dr Adip Shetty
- Reasons
- Ongoing nasal blockage, sleep breathing problems or selected ear problems.
- Approach
- Through the mouth, with no cut on the face.
- Recovery
- Often about a week if the tonsils are not also removed.
When might it help?
Enlarged adenoids may contribute to mouth breathing, snoring or repeated middle-ear problems. The doctor checks whether allergy or another cause is involved. Some children can be monitored because adenoids tend to shrink as they grow older.
What happens during the operation?
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the adenoid tissue through the mouth. Grommets or tonsil surgery may be done at the same time if each has a clear reason. Many children go home the same day; others need overnight observation.
Helping your child recover
A blocked nose, sore throat, bad breath or a temporary nasal sound to the voice can occur. Give pain relief as instructed and encourage regular drinks. Most children need about a week away from school or nursery. Recovery is longer if the tonsils are removed too.
Risks and warning signs
Bleeding, infection, lasting voice changes and regrowth are possible. Fresh bleeding from the nose or mouth, vomiting blood or trouble breathing needs urgent hospital care. Get advice if your child cannot drink, passes much less urine or has worsening pain or fever.
A note on your care
“Before your child’s operation, ask every practical question you need to. Knowing what the first few days may look like can help you feel more prepared to care for them.”
A little more clarity
Common questions
General answers, so you can arrive with a clearer sense of what to ask.
Will adenoid surgery stop every cold?
No. Children can still catch colds. The aim is to address the breathing or ear problem linked to the adenoids.
Can adenoids grow back?
Some tissue can regrow. A return of symptoms needs reassessment; it does not automatically mean another operation.
Are the tonsils always removed too?
No. The decision depends on whether the tonsils also contribute to the symptoms.
Why does my child still sound blocked afterwards?
Early swelling can temporarily affect nasal breathing and voice. If it persists or worsens, contact the surgical team.
Sources and review
Updated . General information to help you prepare for a consultation. Information on this website does not replace a consultation.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Adip Shetty on .
Read next
Pages that sit beside this treatment.