ADENOID & TONSIL SURGERY

Adenoid and tonsil surgery referred to medically as adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy are surgical procedures performed to remove the adenoids and/or tonsils. These procedures may be recommended when conservative management has not adequately addressed ongoing symptoms related to recurrent infection or upper airway obstruction, with the most appropriate approach determined following thorough clinical assessment.

The tonsils are small glands located at the back of the throat, while the adenoids sit higher up behind the nose. When these structures become persistently enlarged or repeatedly infected, they can contribute to symptoms including recurring tonsillitis, snoring, sleep disordered breathing, and in children, abdominal pain, behavioural changes, or unexplained fevers. Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic in a hospital setting and takes approximately 30 minutes, with an overnight stay required for both children and adults.

Because adenoid and tonsil surgery can affect both airway function and overall quality of life, a detailed consultation process is essential. At least two consultations are conducted prior to any surgical planning, allowing your surgeon to discuss your symptoms, assess whether surgery is appropriate, explain the available options, and outline the potential risks and limitations relevant to your individual circumstances.