Tonsil and Adenoid Surgery in NC

What Are Tonsils and Adenoids?

At ENT Carolina, we provide pediatric tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy in North Carolina, helping children breathe, sleep, and feel better. Our expert ENT specialists deliver compassionate, specialized care from diagnosis through recovery, ensuring every child’s safety and comfort during their tonsils and adenoids removal.

What Are Tonsils and Adenoids?

The tonsils and adenoids are lymphatic tissues located in the throat that help your child’s immune system fight infections. The tonsils are two small masses of tissue at the back of the throat, while the adenoids are located higher up, behind the nose. Both play an important role in immune defense, particularly in young children. However, when these tissues become swollen or infected, they can cause problems, leading to the need for removal of tonsils and adenoids. 

Continue reading about symptoms and treatments in What Are Tonsils and Adenoids?

Where Are Your Tonsils and Adenoids?

• The tonsils are two round lumps of tissue located on each side of the throat at the back of the mouth. They are easily visible by opening your mouth wide and looking into a mirror. As part of the body’s immune system, the tonsils act as the first line of defense, helping to trap and “sample” bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth.
• The adenoids, on the other hand, are located higher up, in the upper part of the throat behind the nasal cavity and above the soft palate. Unlike tonsils, they cannot be seen without special instruments. Adenoids also play a crucial role in fighting infection by filtering germs that enter through the nose. 

Because of their strategic positions, both the tonsils and adenoids serve as important immune gatekeepers.

Why Do Kids Get Their Tonsils Removed?

Children may need their tonsils and adenoids removed for various reasons, but the most common include frequent infections and breathing difficulties. Chronic issues with the tonsils and adenoids can cause pain, difficulty swallowing and breathing, particularly during sleep. Our pediatric specialists evaluate each child’s needs to determine whether tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are necessary.

Tonsillitis Symptoms and Treatment

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils, typically causing symptoms like:

• Sore throat and pain when swallowing
• Red, swollen tonsils (sometimes with white patches)
• Fever and chills
• Recurrent sinus infections
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Bad breath or a muffled voice
• Rash

Tonsillitis treatment depends on the cause and severity. Mild cases caused by viruses often improve with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If a bacterial infection is the cause, antibiotics may be prescribed. For those who experience frequent or severe infections, a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be recommended to prevent recurring problems.

Signs You Need Your Tonsils Removed

Several signs may indicate your child needs tonsils and adenoids removed, including:

• Frequent throat infections: If your child suffers from frequent or severe tonsillitis.
• Sleep apnea: Enlarged adenoids and tonsils can obstruct the airway, leading to difficulty breathing during sleep as well as hyperactivity due to poor quality of sleep.
• Chronic nasal congestion: Swollen adenoids can block nasal passages, making it hard for your child to breathe through their nose.
• Difficulty swallowing: Swollen tonsils can cause pain when swallowing food or liquids.
• Snoring: Enlarged adenoids and tonsils are a common cause of snoring in children.

Tonsillectomy: What You Need to Know

A tonsillectomy in children is a routine procedure performed by our experienced pediatric ENT specialists, ensuring that your child is safe and comfortable throughout the process.

What Happens During a Tonsillectomy?

• Step 1 - Anesthesia: Your child is given general anesthesia to ensure they are completely asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
• Step 2 - Tonsil Removal: The surgeon carefully removes the tonsils through the mouth, so there are no external cuts or visible scars.
• Step 3 - Children's Recovery from Tonsillectomy: After surgery, some throat soreness is normal. Your care team will provide pain management instructions and post-op tips to help your child recover comfortably at home.

Adenoidectomy: What You Need to Know

An adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoids, typically done in children who have frequent ear infections, difficulty breathing, or sleep apnea.

What Happens During an Adenoidectomy?

• Step 1 - Anesthesia: Your child is placed under general anesthesia to ensure they remain asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure.
• Step 2 - Adenoid Removal: The surgeon gently removes the adenoids through the mouth in a minimally invasive process, leaving no external incisions.
• Step 3 - Adenoidectomy Recovery: Most children recover quickly, with noticeable improvements in breathing, sleep quality, and overall health soon after the Adenoidectomy.

Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy Recovery in Kids

The recovery from tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy is typically manageable. Recovery time can vary, but many children feel better within 7-10 days after surgery. The tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy recovery day by day for a child often includes:

• Day 1-3: Expect some swelling, sore throat, and possible discomfort. Pain management, like prescribed medications, will be provided.
• Day 4-7: Pain may begin to subside, but your child may experience mild discomfort in the throat and also the ears, especially when swallowing.
• Week 2: Most children will be feeling much better and can return to normal activities, but some discomfort may persist for up to two weeks.

Signs of Infection After Surgery

Watch for signs of infection, such as a high fever. It is extremely rare to have infection at the surgery site after tonsils and adenoid removal.

Pediatric Tonsil and Adenoid Surgery: Why Choose Us?

At ENT Carolina, we specialize in pediatric tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy in North Carolina, ensuring that your child receives the highest care. Our experienced team uses the latest surgical techniques, prioritizing safety and comfort throughout the procedure. Schedule an appointment with our pediatric ENT specialists today, or take advantage of our walk-in clinics at our Gastonia, Shelby, and Belmont locations.

Call us at (704) 868-8400. Let us help your child breathe easier and live more comfortably!