Ear, Nose and Throat specialist Op. Dr. Melih Arif Közen, serving in İzmir, applies modern surgical techniques for adenoid and tonsil enlargement, which are especially common in children. The adenoid and the tonsils are immune tissues located in the throat and nasopharyngeal region that protect the body against infections.
When these tissues become excessively enlarged over time or are frequently inflamed, they can lead to complaints such as sleeping with the mouth open, snoring, recurrent throat infections, and hearing problems. In cases where medical treatment is insufficient and the complaints affect the child’s development and sleep quality, surgery offers a permanent and effective solution.
An enlarged adenoid can cause fluid to accumulate in the middle ear, leading to hearing problems. In such cases, surgery can, when necessary, be planned together with the placement of an ear tube (ventilation tube).
What Is Adenoid and Tonsil Surgery?
Adenoid surgery (adenoidectomy) and tonsil surgery (tonsillectomy) are surgical procedures in which these excessively enlarged or frequently inflamed tissues are removed. The two procedures are most often performed together in the same session. The goal is to relieve the airway, put an end to recurrent infections, and resolve problems that negatively affect the child’s sleep and development.
Opening the Airway
By removing the enlarged adenoid and tonsils, comfortable breathing through the nose and throat is restored; snoring and sleeping with the mouth open are reduced.
Fewer Infections
Frequently recurring tonsil and throat inflammations decrease significantly; the need for antibiotics and the number of sick days are reduced.
Protecting Hearing
Fluid accumulation and hearing problems caused by the adenoid blocking the ear canal are resolved; if needed, this is supported with an ear tube.
When Is Adenoid and Tonsil Surgery Performed?
These surgeries are considered when adenoid or tonsil enlargement affects the child’s sleep, development and daily life, and medical treatment proves insufficient. The most frequently evaluated reasons are as follows.
Sleep and Breathing Problems
Sleeping with the mouth open, snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep (apnea) and the resulting restless, interrupted sleep.
Recurrent Infections
Tonsillitis and throat infections that recur many times a year and require frequent antibiotic use.
Effects on Hearing and Speech
Fluid accumulation in the middle ear due to the adenoid, hearing loss, delayed speech and recurrent ear infections.
The decision to operate is made according to the frequency and severity of the child’s complaints. If there are ear problems related to the adenoid, the placement of an ear tube may also be evaluated in the same session.
How Is Adenoid and Tonsil Surgery Carried Out?
The technique to be used is determined according to the size of the tissues, the type of complaint, and the child’s condition. The procedures are performed through the mouth, with no external incision.
Adenoidectomy (Adenoid)
The enlarged adenoid tissue at the back of the nasopharynx is cleared through the mouth under camera guidance. The nasal and ear passages are relieved.
Tonsillectomy (Tonsil)
Inflamed or excessively enlarged tonsils are removed through the mouth. With modern techniques, bleeding and pain are kept to a minimum.
Combined Procedure
When both problems are present together, both procedures are performed in the same session. If needed, an ear tube is also added.
Preparation Before Adenoid and Tonsil Surgery
Since these surgeries are most often performed on children, the preoperative evaluation is important both for safety and for the child’s comfort. At this stage, the cause of the complaints is identified and appropriate planning is carried out.
Examination and Evaluation
The size of the adenoid and tonsils is assessed with an endoscopic examination. If necessary, a hearing test is performed to check for any involvement of the ear.
General Health Check
The necessary blood tests are carried out before anesthesia. The child’s general health and any active infection are evaluated; the procedure is scheduled for an appropriate time.
How Is Adenoid and Tonsil Surgery Performed?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, through the mouth, and usually takes a short time. Because there is no external incision, no scar remains. The procedure progresses in defined stages, and most patients are discharged the same day or after a short period of observation.
Anesthesia and Preparation
The child is put to sleep under general anesthesia. The mouth area is appropriately prepared and the procedure begins.
Removal of the Tissues
The enlarged adenoid and, if necessary, the tonsils are cleared through the mouth under camera guidance. Bleeding is brought under control.
Completion and Waking Up
The procedure is completed and the child wakes up from anesthesia within a short time. After observation, the child is usually discharged the same day.
Let’s Talk So Your Child Can Breathe Comfortably
You can consult Op. Dr. Melih Arif Közen about adenoid and tonsil complaints.
Recovery After Adenoid and Tonsil Surgery
Recovery after surgery usually progresses noticeably within a few days to a week. During the first days there may be mild throat pain and difficulty swallowing; these are normal and gradually decrease. Drinking plenty of fluids and choosing soft foods makes recovery easier.
The First Days
There may be throat pain and mild referred ear pain. Cold and soft foods provide relief; drinking plenty of water is important. Comfort is provided with pain relievers.
The Following Days
Most children return to normal eating and activity within a few days. Full recovery and the shedding of the scab tissue in the throat are completed in about 1–2 weeks.
Consult your physician without delay in the following situations:
- Bright red bleeding from the mouth
- High fever and progressively worsening, severe pain
- Inability to take fluids and marked dehydration (decreased urination, weakness)
- Difficulty breathing
Frequently Asked Questions
Does removing the adenoid and tonsils weaken the immune system?
No. The body has many other tissues that provide immune defense. Since constantly inflamed adenoids and tonsils actually become a source of infection, removing them has a positive effect on health in most children and reduces the number of sick days.
Can the two surgeries be performed at the same time?
Yes. If there are both adenoid and tonsil problems together, the two procedures are usually performed in the same session. This way, the child receives a single anesthesia and goes through a single recovery process.
What can my child eat after surgery?
During the first days, cold and soft foods (ice cream, pudding, purée, soup) are preferred. Plenty of fluid intake is important. It is recommended to avoid hard, spicy and hot foods for a few days.
Can the adenoid grow back?
In rare cases the adenoid may partially grow back, but this is not common. When the tonsils are completely removed, there is no recurrence. If complaints persist, a follow-up check is strongly recommended.