Ascent Ear Nose & Throat
Adenoidectomy Surgery In Singapore
Adenoidectomy is commonly performed in younger children as they are more susceptible to adenoid infections than adults.
Why & When Do I Need Adenoidectomy?
Sometimes, the adenoids may become swollen or infected, resulting in nasal obstruction, sinus infections and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). In some cases, enlarged adenoids can also affect the recurrence of ear infections and fluid in the ear, resulting in temporary hearing loss. As such, adenoidectomy is necessary to prevent further complications.
Adenoidectomy is typically recommended if you have:
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Breathing difficulties
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Recurrent adenoiditis (inflammation of the adenoids) with a middle ear infection
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Chronic sinusitis
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Enlarged adenoids that cause severe nasal obstruction or obstructive sleep apnoea
What Is Adenoidectomy?
Adenoidectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the adenoids, which are small lumps of tissue located at the back of the nose and above the roof of the mouth. Adenoids are part of the body’s immune system, which helps fight infection, protecting the body from viruses and bacteria.
Possible Risks & Complications
While adenoidectomy is safe and side effects are typically rare, as with any other surgical procedure, there is still a chance of complications.
Some of the possible side effects include:
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Bleeding
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Infection
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Changes in vocal quality
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Swallowing problems
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Fever
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Nausea and vomiting
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Sore throat
For Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents
Insurance & Medisave Partners
Certain ENT procedures are claimable under Medisave, and the exact amount would depend on the procedure. For more information, please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plan, Integrated Sheild Plan, or Medisave.
Please note: All three Ascent ENT clinics and all our doctors are recognized Prudential Panel providers, making it easier for Prudential policyholders to access specialist ENT care across our network. Please verify your specific plan coverage with Prudential before booking.
What Happens During Adenoidectomy?
Before the surgery, you should inform your doctor if your child has had a cold or sore throat in the week before the operation. If so, the surgery may have to be postponed to reduce the risk of developing complications post-surgery. Your child should also avoid consuming any food or drinks for several hours before the surgery to prevent vomiting.
During the surgery, the doctor will administer a general anaesthetic to your child before using an endoscope (a thin, fibre-optic viewing instrument) to examine the inside of your child’s throat and nasal cavity. Various methods can be used to remove the adenoids, including electrocautery (using heat from an electric current to destroy tissues), a surgical knife or coblation (using low-temperature radiofrequency to gently remove tissues).
When the procedure is complete, your child will be taken to a recovery room where their vital signs will be observed while waiting for the anaesthetic to wear off. Most children will be able to return home on the day of the adenoidectomy surgery.
What To Expect Afterwards?

Following adenoidectomy, the doctor will advise you on certain postoperative instructions on how to care for your child during the recovery period. It is common for your child to experience pain or discomfort in the throat, ears and nose for a few days after surgery. These symptoms can generally be treated with pain relievers and over-the-counter medication prescribed by your doctor.
When Should You See An ENT Specialist In Singapore??
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Any Ear, Nose or Throat symptoms that you are troubled with or concerned of
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Persistent blocked nose with mouth breathing or snoring
Visit Us Today
Our Clinic
Visit us at any of our 3 convenient locations in Singapore!
Our Main Clinic
Feel free to drop by our clinic and meet our specialist
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Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth #09-03/04/05
Singapore 228510
Other Practice Locations
Parkway East Medical Centre
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319 Joo Chiat Place #03-02 Singapore 427989
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre D
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820 Thomson Road #08-63 Singapore 574623
Frequently Asked Questions
Do adults need an adenoidectomy?
Adenoids are typically bigger when you are a child. They then start to shrink and usually disappear by the time when you are an adult. Hence, adults rarely need adenoidectomy as their adenoids have shrunk and are not likely to cause problems.
However, in rare cases, an adenoidectomy may be required in adults if the infected adenoids are causing symptoms that are painful and persistent. Furthermore, surgical removal of the adenoids is also recommended if there is a possibility of cancer.
How long does an adenoidectomy surgery take?
An adenoidectomy operation generally takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour. Afterwards, your child will need to stay in a recovery room for up to an hour until the anaesthetic wears off.
How long will it take to recover after an adenoidectomy?
Most children generally recover from adenoid removal within 1 to 2 weeks. During this period, your child should stay home and rest to allow the operated area to heal. This reduces the risks of infection and other potential complications.

