Adenoidectomy in Joliet, New Lenox and Morris, IL

An adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids, which are small pads of tissue located high in the back of the nose, behind the nasal passages.

Adenoids are part of the immune system, and they help young children fight infections early in life. Unlike tonsils, which sit at the back of the throat and are visible through the mouth, adenoids are hidden behind the nose and cannot be seen without special tools.

As children grow, adenoids usually shrink on their own. But when adenoids are enlarged or chronically infected, they can cause breathing, ear, or sleep problems, and removal may be recommended.

Why We May Recommend an Adenoidectomy

An adenoidectomy may be considered when enlarged or inflamed adenoids cause ongoing symptoms, including:

  • Nasal blockage or difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Chronic or recurrent sinus infections
  • Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
  • Sleep-disordered breathing or obstructive sleep apnea
  • Frequent ear infections (otitis media)
  • Chronic fluid buildup behind the eardrum
  • Hearing difficulties related to ear fluid
  • In rare or severe cases, effects on speech or facial growth

Symptoms That Might Lead to an Adenoidectomy

Common symptoms associated with enlarged adenoids include:

  • Mouth breathing
  • Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness
  • Snoring or labored breathing at night
  • Chronic runny nose
  • Recurrent ear infections
  • Hearing difficulties due to fluid in the ears
  • Restless sleep, pauses in breathing, or daytime fatigue

Adenoidectomy Evaluation and Diagnosis

Before recommending surgery, an ENT specialist may perform:

  • A thorough head and neck examination
  • A nasal endoscopy (using a small camera, if needed)
  • Review of infection history and symptom patterns
  • Hearing tests to determine if ear issues are present
  • A sleep study when sleep-disordered breathing is suspected

Diagnosis focuses on how symptoms affect daily function, not just adenoid size.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

In some cases, symptoms can be managed without surgery, including:

  • Nasal steroid sprays
  • Antibiotics for active infections
  • Allergy treatment and environmental control
  • Watchful waiting when symptoms are mild or improving

Surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments fail or when symptoms affect breathing, sleep, hearing, or quality of life.

How the Adenoidectomy Procedure Works

  • The procedure is performed under general anesthesia
  • Adenoids are removed through the mouth with no external incisions
  • Common techniques include gentle removal with specialized instruments
  • The surgery usually takes 15–30 minutes
  • Adenoidectomy may be performed alone or combined with other procedures (such as ear tubes or tonsillectomy)

Compared with tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy typically involves less pain and faster recovery.

Benefits of Adenoidectomy

Potential benefits include:

  • Improved nasal breathing
  • Better sleep quality and reduced snoring
  • Fewer sinus and ear infections
  • Improved hearing in children with chronic ear fluid
  • Better daytime energy and focus
  • Overall improvement in quality of life

Risks and Possible Complications

Adenoidectomy is generally safe, but possible risks include:

  • Bleeding (uncommon)
  • Infection
  • Mild pain or sore throat
  • Temporary nasal-sounding speech
  • Regrowth of adenoid tissue (rare, more common in younger children)
  • Reactions to anesthesia

Your surgeon will review risks and benefits before your procedure.

Adenoidectomy Recovery Process

Recovery from adenoidectomy is usually quick:

  • Most children feel better within a few days
  • Mild throat soreness or nasal congestion is common
  • Temporary changes in speech or breathing sounds may occur
  • Children often return to school or daycare within a few days

Home Care After Adenoidectomy

After surgery, families are typically advised to:

  • Use recommended pain relief as directed
  • Encourage fluids to stay hydrated
  • Resume a normal or soft diet within 1–2 days
  • Avoid nose blowing for a short period
  • Limit strenuous activity briefly, based on provider guidance

When to Seek Medical Attention

Contact your provider if you notice:

  • Persistent fever
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Bleeding from the nose or mouth
  • Signs of dehydration
  • Severe or worsening pain

FAQs About Adenoidectomy

How is an adenoidectomy different from a tonsillectomy?

An adenoidectomy removes the adenoids behind the nose, while a tonsillectomy removes the tonsils in the throat. The procedures address different causes of breathing, ear, or infection-related symptoms.

Can adults have an adenoidectomy?

Yes, adults can have an adenoidectomy, though it’s less common than in children. It may be recommended when enlarged adenoids contribute to chronic nasal blockage, sinus issues, or ear problems.

Will removing the adenoids affect my child’s immune system?

Removing the adenoids does not weaken the immune system. The body has many other immune tissues that continue to protect against infections after surgery.

How long does recovery take after an adenoidectomy?

Recovery is usually quick, with most children feeling better within a few days. Many return to school or normal activities shortly after.

Will my child be in a lot of pain after surgery?

Pain after an adenoidectomy is typically mild and short-lived. Discomfort can usually be managed with simple pain relief as advised by the surgeon.

Can adenoids grow back after they’re removed?

In rare cases, adenoid tissue can regrow, especially in very young children. If symptoms return, further evaluation may be needed.

Can an adenoidectomy be done at the same time as ear tube placement?

Yes, adenoidectomy is often performed alongside ear tube placement to help reduce ear infections and improve drainage.

Will an adenoidectomy help with snoring or sleep problems?

An adenoidectomy can significantly improve snoring and sleep-disordered breathing when enlarged adenoids are blocking the airway.