The adrenal glands are two small, triangular glands that sit atop each kidney. They produce a number of hormones essential to daily health, including cortisol, which regulates the body's stress response and metabolism; aldosterone, which helps control blood pressure and fluid balance; and adrenaline, which governs the fight-or-flight response. When a tumor or other condition causes one or both adrenal glands to produce too much or too little of these hormones, it can have wide-ranging effects on the body, from uncontrolled high blood pressure and weight gain to dangerous hormonal surges and metabolic disruption.
Adrenal surgery, known as adrenalectomy, involves the removal of one or both adrenal glands and is the most effective treatment for many adrenal conditions. At Atlanta General and Bariatric Surgery Center, our board-certified endocrine surgeons are experienced in laparoscopic adrenalectomy, using minimally invasive techniques that reduce postoperative discomfort, minimize scarring, and enable faster recovery. Our MBSA and AAAHC-accredited facility in Johns Creek is equipped with advanced surgical technology, and our 1:1 nurse-to-patient ratio ensures that every patient receives individualized, attentive care from first consultation through full recovery.
We accept most major insurance plans and offer self-pay options at competitive rates. If you have been referred for adrenal surgery or are seeking a surgical evaluation, request a consultation with our team today.
A range of adrenal conditions may require surgical treatment, including:
Most adrenal tumors are treated using laparoscopic adrenalectomy, in which the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen or flank and uses a tiny camera and specialized instruments to remove the affected adrenal gland. Because the adrenal glands are located deep in the abdomen, laparoscopic access requires precision and experience — but when performed by a skilled endocrine surgeon, it offers meaningful advantages over open surgery:
In cases involving large tumors, suspected malignancy, or complex anatomy, an open approach may be more appropriate. Your surgeon will review your imaging in detail and recommend the technique that offers the best balance of safety and effectiveness for your specific situation.
Recovery after laparoscopic adrenalectomy is generally well tolerated. Most patients go home within one to two days and return to light activity within two to three weeks. Depending on the condition treated and how much the remaining adrenal gland or the opposite adrenal gland can compensate, some patients may require temporary or long-term hormonal supplementation after surgery. For example, patients treated for Cushing's syndrome often require cortisol replacement while their remaining adrenal tissue recovers. Your surgeon will work closely with your endocrinologist to manage hormone levels and coordinate your post-operative care seamlessly.
Adrenal gland conditions can produce a wide variety of symptoms depending on which hormones are affected and whether the gland is overproducing or underproducing. Common symptoms that may suggest an adrenal condition include high blood pressure that is difficult to control with standard medications, unexplained weight gain particularly around the abdomen or face, fatigue and weakness, excessive sweating, rapid or pounding heartbeat, headache, low potassium levels, easy bruising or slow wound healing, and changes in blood sugar. Because many of these symptoms overlap with other conditions, adrenal disorders are sometimes diagnosed through blood and urine tests rather than symptoms alone. If you have been told you have an adrenal mass or abnormal hormone levels, our surgical team can help you understand your options.
Adrenal surgery is a safe and well-established procedure when performed by an experienced endocrine surgeon in an appropriately equipped facility. That said, the adrenal glands are located near important structures including the kidneys, major blood vessels, and the liver on the right side, and the complexity of the anatomy requires a high level of surgical expertise. Patients with pheochromocytoma require particular attention to blood pressure management before, during, and after surgery due to the risk of dangerous hormonal surges. Our team coordinates closely with anesthesiology and your endocrinologist in these cases to ensure the safest possible experience. During your consultation, your surgeon will walk you through the specific risks and considerations relevant to your individual situation.
Whether hormone replacement is needed after adrenal surgery depends on the condition being treated, how much adrenal tissue is removed, and how well the remaining gland compensates. Patients who have one adrenal gland removed and whose remaining gland is healthy typically do not require long-term hormone replacement. Patients treated for Cushing's syndrome may require temporary cortisol replacement until their remaining adrenal tissue resumes normal function. Patients who have both adrenal glands removed will require lifelong hormone replacement therapy. Your surgeon and endocrinologist will monitor your hormone levels closely after surgery and adjust any replacement therapy based on your individual recovery.
Atlanta General and Bariatric Surgery Center in Johns Creek provides specialized endocrine surgery care, including laparoscopic adrenalectomy, to patients throughout the greater Atlanta area. Our board-certified surgeons are experienced in treating a full range of adrenal conditions and are committed to delivering expert, compassionate care at every stage. To schedule a consultation, call our office at (678) 691-6257 or request an appointment online. We serve patients throughout Metro Atlanta and welcome those traveling from Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, and beyond. We look forward to helping you find answers and move forward with confidence.