Surgery·Surgery
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Adenoidectomy is surgery to remove the adenoids, a small pad of tissue at the back of the nasal passage. This tissue is part of the immune system but can become enlarged and cause problems with breathing, ear infections, and sleep.
Key facts
Yes, adenoidectomy is one of the most common surgeries in children. In the UK, it is often performed alongside tonsillectomy.
It mainly affects children aged 1 to 7 years, but adults with persistent issues may also have the procedure.
A doctor will check your child's nose, throat, and ears with a small light or a flexible camera (nasendoscopy).
The exam is quick and can be done in the clinic. The doctor will explain if surgery might help based on the size of the adenoids and the symptoms.
For mild cases, doctors often recommend a 'watch and wait' approach, as adenoids may shrink on their own. For more severe or persistent symptoms, an adenoidectomy (surgical removal) may be advised.
If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed for a short time. However, antibiotics do not shrink enlarged adenoids. Steroid nasal sprays can sometimes reduce swelling caused by allergies, but they are not a cure.
After surgery, your child will need to rest at home for a few days. Plan for about 1 to 2 weeks off from school or daycare. Some swelling and a sore throat can be expected, but this usually improves quickly.
Offer soft, cool foods like yoghurt, pudding, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid crunchy, sharp, or acidic foods until the throat heals. Regular activity can be resumed gradually after the first week.
Enlarged adenoids cannot always be prevented, but you can reduce the number of infections that make them worse. Good handwashing, avoiding sick contacts, and not smoking around children help.
To help prevent some infections that can lead to enlarged adenoids, make sure your child is up to date with all routine vaccinations, including the flu vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine.
There is no routine screening for enlarged adenoids. They are usually discovered when a child is seen for related symptoms.
Adenoidectomy is a safe and effective surgery. The vast majority of children breathe and sleep better afterwards, and the risk of serious complications is very low. For most people, recovery is straightforward, and the benefits far outweigh the risks.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Adenoidectomy is usually considered when: symptoms are severe and don't improve over several months, your child has frequent ear infections that don't get better with treatment, or sleep apnoea is affecting their health. The operation is done under general anaesthesia and often takes about 30 minutes.
Surgery can be a stressful experience for both children and parents. It is normal to feel anxious. Talk to your healthcare team about any worries. In older children, changes in voice or sleep can affect self-esteem; offer reassurance and seek support from a play specialist or counsellor if needed.