Adenoidectomy: A Simple Guide for Patients
What is an Adenoidectomy?
An adenoidectomy is an operation to remove the adenoids. Adenoids are small lumps of tissue at the back of the nose, above the throat. They help fight infections in young children, but sometimes they get too big or infected and cause problems in adults
Why Might Someone Need an Adenoidectomy?
Dr Fragkiadakis may suggest removing the adenoids if they are causing health issues, especially in children. Common reasons include:
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Frequent Ear Infections: Enlarged adenoids can block the tubes that connect the ears to the throat, leading to repeated ear infections.
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Nasal Blockage: Big adenoids can make it hard to breathe through the nose, causing mouth breathing, snoring, or restless sleep.
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Sleep Problems: Sometimes, large adenoids block the airway during sleep, causing snoring or sleep apnea (pauses in breathing).
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Sinus Infections: Chronically infected adenoids can lead to repeated sinus infections.
What are the Benefits of Adenoidectomy?
Removing the adenoids can help:
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Improve Breathing: Children and sometimes adults can breathe more easily through their nose.
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Reduce Ear Infections: Fewer ear infections mean less pain and fewer doctor visits.
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Sleep Better: Removing the blockage can help people sleep more soundly.
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Relieve Nasal Congestion: Less stuffiness and easier breathing.
What Happens During the Procedure?
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Before Surgery: Dr Fragkiadakis will check your nasal passages with a flexible endoscope to establish a diagnosis.
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Anesthesia: The operation is done under general anaesthesia, so you will be asleep and won’t feel anything.
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Surgery: The surgeon removes the adenoids through the mouth or the nose—no cuts on the outside. The operation usually takes about 30 minutes.
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After Surgery: You will wake up in a recovery area and be watched closely until you are fully awake.
Recovery After Adenoidectomy
Most people recover quickly and can go home the same day. Here’s what to expect:
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Sore Throat: Some discomfort or a sore throat is normal. Pain medicine like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help.
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Nausea: You might feel a bit sick after the anaesthetic, but this usually goes away quickly.
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Eating and Drinking: Start with clear liquids (water, juice, broth). Soft foods like yogurt or mashed potatoes can be added you feel better. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for a few days.
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Swelling and Bleeding: Mild swelling and a little bleeding from the nose or mouth are normal. If there is heavy bleeding, contact your doctor right away.
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Rest: Take it easy for a few days. Often you can return to your normal activities in about a week.
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Follow-Up: You’ll have a follow-up appointment to make sure everything is healing well.
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