An adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoids, which are small masses of lymphatic tissue in the back of the throat area. When they become swollen or inflamed, they can block passageways that serve the ears and nose, making it difficult to breathe, sleep, and hear.
Removing the adenoids is similar to removing the tonsils. This surgery is more commonly performed in children than in adults, but it can be performed on patients of all ages.
If you are considering adenoidectomy surgery for you or your child, just like any treatment, it may come with certain side effects. Let’s talk about some of the possible complications of having an adenoidectomy, and where you can go to speak to a skilled ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT) who can help you decide whether this is indeed the right treatment for you.
Possible Complications After Adenoidectomy Surgery
During an adenoidectomy, the surgeon removes the adenoids through the patient’s mouth. The mouth will be kept open using a retractor, and the patient remains asleep throughout the procedure via general anesthesia. Your doctor who is performing the adenoidectomy surgery will make sure that the patient remains comfortable during the procedure.
The possible side effects and complications (which are generally mild and temporary) from adenoidectomy surgery can include:
- Excessive bleeding at the site of removal
- Infection
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain and difficulty when swallowing
- Ear pain
- Changes to the voice
- Bad breath
Be sure to discuss the risks associated with an adenoidectomy with your ENT doctor, and address any concerns you may have about the procedure. List all of the patient’s (either you or your child) medications, allergies, and underlying health conditions for your ENT surgeon.
Negative side effects from having an adenoidectomy are very rare. It is normal to experience a sore throat, a stuffy nose, and a mild earache after surgery, but patients generally make a full recovery without any notable complications.
Adenoidectomy Surgery in Georgetown, TX
When adenoids cause chronic breathing, sleeping, and hearing problems, it’s time for a solution.
Whether it is you or your child who needs their adenoids removed, be sure to choose an ENT doctor who has many years of experience treating patients of all ages. Dr. Scott Franklin of Georgetown ENT is here to perform an evaluation, determine a diagnosis, and explain all of your treatment options. He can perform the adenoidectomy surgery if that is what you choose.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Franklin, call Georgetown ENT today at (512) 869-0604 or use our convenient online request form. We look forward to serving your family!
