Adrenal Mass
An adrenal mass is an abnormal growth on one or both adrenal glands, small organs located above the kidneys that produce hormones regulating metabolism, blood pressure, and stress response. While many adrenal masses are benign and asymptomatic, some may cause hormonal imbalances or indicate malignancy.
Our board-certified general surgeons and endocrine specialists provide comprehensive adrenal mass evaluation and surgical treatment, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted adrenalectomy when indicated.
Schedule Your Adrenal Mass Consultation
Early evaluation is important for effective management and symptom control.
Call our office today or request a consultation online for adrenal gland surgery to discuss your diagnosis and treatment options.
What Does Adrenal Mass Surgery Treat?
Surgical treatment may be recommended for:
- Functional adrenal tumors producing excess hormones (e.g., cortisol, aldosterone, catecholamines)
- Large or suspicious adrenal gland masses that may indicate adrenal cancer
- Symptomatic masses causing pain, hypertension, or hormonal imbalance
Who Can Benefit?
- Patients diagnosed with adrenal masses on imaging studies
- Individuals experiencing symptoms related to hormone overproduction
- Patients at risk of malignancy or growth-related complications
Timely evaluation ensures appropriate treatment and prevention of long-term complications.
How to Prepare for Adrenal Gland Mass Surgery
Preparation includes:
- Comprehensive evaluation with lab tests and imaging (CT, MRI, or PET scans)
- Hormonal testing to identify functional tumors
- Review of medications and medical history
- Preoperative instructions, including fasting and medication adjustments
- Arranging post-operative support at home
Our team provides clear, patient-friendly instructions for a safe surgical experience.
Before the Procedure
- Arrive at the hospital or surgical center early for check-in
- Bring ID, insurance card, and medication list
- Meet your surgical and anesthesia teams
- Review procedure details, risks, and expected recovery
We prioritize patient comfort and understanding before surgery.
During the Procedure
Adrenal mass removal (adrenalectomy) may be performed using:
- Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy – minimally invasive, small incisions, faster recovery
- Robotic-Assisted Adrenalectomy – enhanced precision and visualization for complex cases
- Open Adrenalectomy – for large or invasive tumors
- Procedure typically takes 1–3 hours under general anesthesia
Advanced techniques reduce complications and optimize outcomes while preserving surrounding structures.
After the Procedure
Recovery varies depending on the procedure type:
- Hospital Stay: 1–3 days for minimally invasive surgery; longer for open surgery
- Mild to moderate pain or tenderness at incision site
- Gradual return to normal diet and activities
- Follow-up visits to monitor hormone levels and healing
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- Severe abdominal or flank pain
- Nausea or vomiting that persists
- Any unexpected symptoms
Post-operative monitoring ensures safe recovery and effective hormone regulation.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits
- Removal of masses causing hormonal imbalance or pain
- Treatment of potentially malignant adrenal tumors
- Minimally invasive approaches reduce recovery time and scarring
- Short hospital stay and faster return to daily activities
- Improved overall health and symptom control
Risks
- Infection or bleeding
- Injury to surrounding organs or blood vessels
- Hormonal imbalances requiring temporary or permanent medication
- Rare complications from anesthesia or surgery
Our surgeons provide individualized discussions of risks and benefits before proceeding.
Patient Resources & Education
We provide:
- Pre- and post-operative care instructions
- Hormonal and metabolic education for adrenal health
- Insurance and billing assistance
- Online patient forms
- Long-term monitoring guidance
Our team ensures patients have the knowledge and support needed for a safe and effective recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my adrenal mass needs surgery?
Surgery may be recommended for masses that are large, symptomatic, functional, or suspicious for cancer. Your specialist will review imaging and lab results.
Are adrenal masses usually cancerous?
Most adrenal masses are benign, but some may be malignant. Evaluation with imaging and hormonal testing determines the appropriate treatment.
Is adrenal gland surgery dangerous?
Like any surgery, adrenal gland surgery carries risks, but it is generally safe when performed by an experienced, board-certified surgeon. Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic or robotic adrenalectomy, help reduce complications, shorten recovery time, and improve outcomes. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs, hormone imbalances, and reactions to anesthesia. Your surgeon will review your individual health, discuss risks and benefits, and take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe procedure.
How long is recovery after adrenalectomy?
Minimally invasive procedures typically allow a 1–3 day hospital stay with gradual return to normal activity over 2–4 weeks. Open surgery may require longer recovery.
Are laparoscopic and robotic surgeries safe?
Yes. These minimally invasive techniques are safe, effective, and associated with faster recovery and less pain.
Will I need lifelong medication after adrenal surgery?
It depends on the type of tumor and hormone function. Some patients may require temporary or ongoing hormone replacement therapy.
Schedule Your Adrenal Mass Evaluation
Ensure proper management and relief from symptoms related to adrenal tumors.