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Our BlogAdenoidectomy (Adenoid Removal): When Is It Needed and What to Expect – A 2025 Guide by Magrabi ENT SpecialistsNovember 20, 2025
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Last Update: 20/11/2025
While many cases of nasal congestion or frequent infections can be treated with medication, there are times when conservative treatments are not enough—especially in children. In such cases, adenoidectomy, or adenoid removal surgery, may be the next step toward easier breathing and better sleep.
This guide from Magrabi Hospitals' ENT experts walks you through everything you need to know about this common procedure—whether for your child or yourself—including when surgery is needed, how it's performed, and what recovery looks like.
Don’t let chronic nasal issues disrupt your life or your child’s well-being. Book your consultation now with our ENT specialists at Magrabi.
An adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids—a mass of lymphatic tissue located behind the nose, above the roof of the mouth. These tissues can become enlarged due to repeated infections or allergies, leading to blocked airways, ear infections, snoring, or even sleep apnea.
Also referred to as adenoid removal surgery, this procedure is most commonly performed in children, but can also be recommended for adults in select cases.
The goal is to:
The procedure is safe, short, and often performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis.
Adenoid enlargement is far more common in children than adults, often appearing between ages 3–7. However, some adults may experience persistent or recurrent symptoms that require surgical evaluation.
Children typically undergo adenoidectomy when medical treatments fail to resolve symptoms that interfere with daily life or development.
Common signs include:
Learn more about adenoid problems in children
When Should a Child Have an Adenoidectomy?
ENT doctors at Magrabi recommend adenoidectomy in the following cases:
A full ENT assessment, including nasal endoscopy when needed, helps determine whether surgery is the right choice.
Although rare, adenoid problems can persist into adulthood. Surgery may be considered in adults with:
Surgical planning in adults may involve imaging and nasal endoscopy for accurate diagnosis.
Adenoidectomy is a short, outpatient procedure usually done under general anesthesia. It requires no external incisions and is performed through the mouth using specialized instruments.
Endoscopic adenoidectomy involves using a thin, camera-equipped scope to enhance visibility during surgery. This technique allows ENT surgeons to remove adenoids more precisely, especially in complex cases or when tissue extends into hard-to-reach areas.
ENT specialists at Magrabi may recommend endoscopic adenoidectomy for:
Endoscopy may also be used during preoperative assessment to confirm the extent of tissue enlargement.
Most adenoid removal procedures take between 15–30 minutes, depending on the patient’s age and whether additional procedures (like tonsillectomy) are being performed.
In most cases, patients can go home the same day.
Still unsure about the surgery or recovery? Visit our ENT department and get your questions answered by Magrabi’s trusted specialists.
Book a consultation now
In the first 2–3 days after surgery, the throat may feel sensitive.
Magrabi ENT doctors recommend:
Mild congestion is normal right after surgery but typically resolves in a few days.
ENT specialists note that most patients:
When does appetite return after adenoidectomy?
Magrabi ENT doctors explain that appetite usually returns within 3 to 5 days. In fact, many children start eating and sleeping better than before once breathing improves.
Magrabi specialists recommend:
It’s rare—but possible. Adenoids can regrow if surgery is done at a very young age or if small portions are left behind. However, most children will not experience a recurrence.
No. While adenoids are part of the immune system, removing them doesn’t impair immunity.
Magrabi doctors explain that the body has multiple backup systems—such as the tonsils, lymph nodes, and white blood cells—that fully compensate for the loss.
Because the adenoids and tonsils are part of the same lymphatic system and located close together, doctors sometimes recommend removing both during the same surgery.
ENT doctors at Magrabi suggest combining adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy in cases of:
However, if only the adenoids are enlarged, removing the tonsils may not be necessary.
We’ll be publishing a dedicated article soon about combined adenoid and tonsil removal surgery—stay tuned!
No. It’s a common and safe outpatient surgery with a low risk of complications.
Typically 15–30 minutes, and most children go home the same day.
They rarely do—especially if surgery is done at the right age and tissue is fully removed.
No. The immune system compensates through other organs like lymph nodes and tonsils.
Not always. Your doctor will decide based on your symptoms and exam results.
Adenoidectomy is a safe, effective, and commonly performed procedure that can dramatically improve breathing, sleep, and appetite—especially in children. If medication hasn’t resolved your or your child’s symptoms, consult an ENT specialist for a thorough evaluation.
Clear breathing, better sleep, and improved appetite all begin with one small step.
Book your ENT consultation today at Magrabi.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Hesham Abdul Aziz, ENT Consultant at Magrabi Hospitals.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace a medical consultation with a qualified ENT physician.
