How Long Does it Take to Recover From Adenoidectomy?

If your child is undergoing an adenoidectomy (or the procedure is for you), you may be curious about what to expect following the surgery. What is recovery like? How long does it take to recover from adenoidectomy?

Adenoidectomy, adenoid removal, is a surgery to remove the adenoid glands. Positioned above the roof of the mouth between the mouth and throat, adenoid glands are actually thought to be part of a child’s immune system while they are young. As children age (and their immune system becomes stronger) the adenoid glands shrink until they entirely disappear by the teenage years.

While some swelling is common during sickness, if the adenoid gland becomes repeatedly infected or swollen, a doctor may recommend surgical removal. A swollen adenoid gland can interfere with breathing, sleeping and even cause ear infections. While surgery can sound like an extreme treatment to many parents, the good news is that adenoidectomy is a quick procedure that is done through a simple internal incision through the roof of the mouth, so your child will be back to their healthy, happy self in almost no time.

Following surgery, your child will wait in a recovery room with you and a nurse until the anesthesia wears off. Most children will go home the same day, but some may be asked to stay overnight for observation. In the first few days following surgery, a sore throat is common. Over-the-counter pain medication and cool drinks can ease discomfort. By about 1 week out from surgery the incision should be healed and most pain should be gone. By 2 weeks out, all side effects should be gone and children can resume all normal activities. A followup appointment will be scheduled with your doctor within a month of surgery to ensure that the incision has healed and there is no lasting pain.

Adenoidectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgeries on children, and the benefits far outweigh the risks if your doctor suggests the procedure. If your child is suffering from breathing, sleeping, ear or sinus problems, it may be time to discuss their adenoid glands with a doctor. The specialists at Biltmore ENT can diagnose swollen adenoid glands and determine the best treatment for your child. Call (602) 956-1250 to schedule an appointment today.