An adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids, which are small pads of lymphatic tissue located at the back of the nose, above the roof of the mouth. Adenoids are part of the immune system and help fight infection, particularly in young children. However, in some cases, they can become enlarged or frequently infected, leading to breathing difficulties, recurrent ear or sinus infections, and sleep problems including snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
Adenoidectomy is a common and safe procedure, most often performed in children. It is sometimes done on its own or in combination with other procedures such as tonsillectomy or grommet insertion.
You or your child may be recommended for adenoidectomy if they have:
In many cases, adenoids naturally shrink as children grow older. However, if they are causing significant symptoms, surgery may be the best option.
Adenoidectomy is a low-risk procedure, but as with any surgery, there are potential complications, including:
Dr Phillips will discuss these risks with you before surgery and answer any specific questions you may have.
For mild symptoms, alternative treatments may include:
If conservative treatments are ineffective or the symptoms are severe, surgery is often the most effective solution.
Let Dr Phillips know about any medications or supplements you or your child is taking as they may need to be stopped before surgery.
If general anaesthesia is planned, you or your child must not eat or drink for a specific time before surgery (usually 6 hours for food, 2 hours for clear fluids). Follow the hospital’s fasting instructions carefully.
If you or your child develops a cold, fever, or other illness before the scheduled procedure, let the clinic know. Surgery may need to be postponed.
Most patients go home the same day, usually a few hours after surgery.
Contact our clinic or seek medical attention if you or your child experiences:
You will usually have a follow-up telehealth appointment with Dr Phillips around 4 weeks after surgery to check on healing and ensure there are no ongoing issues.
No. The adenoids are part of the immune system, but their removal does not increase the risk of infections. Other tissues in the body take over their role.
In rare cases, a small amount of adenoid tissue can regrow, but it rarely causes symptoms again or requires further surgery.
Some children have a slightly nasal-sounding voice after surgery. This is usually temporary and resolves within a few weeks.
If you’d like to discuss this procedure or explore suitable treatment options, please get in touch with Dr Nicholas Phillips’ clinic.
To book with Dr Phillips, you’ll need a referral from your GP or specialist. Questions? Call our team — we’re happy to help.
