Recovery after adenoidectomy for children is quite similar in both Kyiv and other major cities, following international best practices. Here’s what you can expect for your child’s recovery, with details applicable to Kyiv and comparable centers elsewhere:
Immediate Post-Surgery
Observation: After surgery, your child will be monitored in a recovery room until fully awake from anesthesia. Most children can go home the same day, though some may stay overnight for observation if needed.
Pain and Discomfort: Mild throat pain, stuffy nose, runny nose, noisy breathing, or bad breath are common for a few days. Pain is usually managed with liquid pain medication prescribed by your doctor.
Nausea: Some children may feel nauseous or vomit once or twice after anesthesia, which usually resolves quickly.
At Home (First Week)
Diet: Start with clear fluids, then soft foods as tolerated (avoid spicy, hot, or crunchy foods). Encourage plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Activity: Rest is crucial for the first 48 hours. Children should avoid strenuous activities, running, or jumping for about 1–2 weeks to allow proper healing.
School/Daycare: Most children can return to school or daycare within 5–7 days, depending on how they feel and their doctor’s advice.
Nasal Care: Teach your child to sneeze with their mouth open and avoid nose-blowing for at least a week. Gentle mouth rinsing is allowed, but no gargling.
Voice Changes: It’s normal for your child’s voice to sound “nasal” or different for a few weeks, especially if the adenoids were very large.
Recovery Timeline
Pain and Swelling: Usually resolve within 3–7 days. Pain medication is recommended on a schedule for the first 72 hours, then as needed.
Return to Normal Activities: Most children are back to normal routines within 7–10 days, though some may take up to two weeks for full recovery.
Complete Healing: The adenoid area heals on its own, and there are no stitches to worry about.
Special Notes for Kyiv
Home Regimen: Ukrainian clinics advise a home regimen for 5–7 days, with reduced physical activity and avoidance of hot foods. If the child feels well and has no fever, they can return to usual activities after a week.
Clinic Stay: After surgery, children typically stay in the clinic for 3–6 hours for monitoring before discharge.
Parent Experiences: Parents in Kyiv report quick recoveries, attentive staff, and clear instructions for home care, with most children resuming normal life within a week.
When to Contact the Doctor
Bleeding: Any bleeding from the nose or mouth after the first day is not normal and should be reported immediately.
Fever: Low-grade fever is common, but a persistent fever above 38.5°C (101.5°F) or signs of infection warrant a call to your doctor.
Breathing Issues: If your child has difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away.
In summary:
Whether in Kyiv or elsewhere, most children recover from adenoidectomy within a week, with mild discomfort managed at home. Rest, a soft diet, and careful activity restrictions help ensure smooth healing. Parents in Kyiv note positive experiences and quick returns to normal life, with attentive care and clear guidance from clinics. Always follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions for the best outcome.
