Getting Ready for Adenoidectomy

How is the surgery done?

• The surgery is done under general anesthesia (completely asleep).
• An instrument holds the mouth open and the tongue out of the way to reach the adenoid, which sits at the top of the throat behind the nose.
• The adenoid is removed using electrocautery. There are no stitches.

What are the risks?

Every surgery has risks. Your surgeon will go over them with you before surgery, and you can ask about any of them.

• Anesthesia is safe, but it has some risks. The anesthesia team can go over them with you. Tell us if anyone in your family has had a problem with anesthesia.
• Pain, bleeding and infection are risks of any surgery.
• Bleeding from the mouth or nose can happen. Rarely, it can be serious.
• A sore throat is expected and usually gets better within the first few days.
• Breathing problems after surgery can happen if the adenoid was large and blocking the airway.
• Inflammation around the neck bones leading to numbness or weakness of the arms or legs. This is rare, but it can be serious.
• Injury to the lips, teeth, tongue or gums from the instrument that holds the mouth open. Tongue numbness or a change in taste can also happen.
• Changes in speech (a nasal-sounding voice) and fluids coming out of the nose when drinking can happen. They are usually temporary, but can be permanent.
• Infections or sleep problems may not go away.

How do I get ready?

• As soon as surgery is scheduled

  • Give us a list of every medicine, vitamin and supplement your child takes. We will tell you which to stop and when.
  • Keep your child away from cigarette smoke and vaping, before and after surgery.
  • Plan time off. Most children can go back to daycare or school, and adults to work, 48 hours after surgery.
  • Plan your travel. No flying or out-of-town travel for 1 week after surgery.
  • Arrange for an adult to drive you and your child home.

• 1 to 2 weeks before

  • Tell us if your child takes any medicine that thins the blood. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
  • Get the supplies in the next section.

• The night before

  • Follow the eating and drinking instructions from our office or the surgery center exactly. If your child eats or drinks when they should not, surgery may need to be postponed for safety.
  • For children: clear liquids are allowed up to 2 hours before surgery, breast milk up to 4 hours before, and formula or cow’s milk up to 6 hours before. All other food stops at midnight. Follow the exact times we or the surgery center give you.
  • Give only the medicines we said to take that morning, with a small sip of water.
  • Get a good night’s sleep.

• The day of surgery

  • Dress your child in comfortable clothes. A favorite blanket or toy can help.
  • Bring your photo ID, insurance card and list of medicines.

What happens after surgery?

• Most children go home the same day.
• Most can go back to daycare, school or work 48 hours after surgery.
• There is no special diet: your child can eat as usual.
• No strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 1 week.
• Bleeding is not common after adenoidectomy. Call us right away for any bleeding from the nose or mouth.
• Your follow-up visit is about 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.

The Adenoidectomy Recovery Guide has everything you need after the procedure, including when to call us.

When should I call before surgery?