When a pituitary tumor, a noncancerous growth on the pituitary gland that disrupts hormone production. Also known as adenoma, it can cause headaches, vision loss, or serious hormone problems like Cushing’s disease or acromegaly. This tiny gland at the base of your brain controls everything from your metabolism to your stress response. When it grows out of control, pituitary surgery, a precise procedure to remove abnormal tissue from the pituitary gland. Often performed using transsphenoidal approach, it’s one of the most common ways to fix hormone imbalances without open brain surgery. You don’t need to be scared of it—most patients go home in a day or two.
The most common reason for this surgery is a transsphenoidal surgery, a minimally invasive technique where surgeons access the pituitary through the nose or upper lip. Also called endoscopic pituitary surgery, it avoids cutting into the skull and reduces recovery time. This method works because the pituitary sits right behind your nasal cavity. Surgeons use a thin scope and tiny tools to reach it. It’s not for every tumor—size, location, and hormone activity matter. If the tumor is too big or has spread, they might need a different approach. But for most people, this is the safest, fastest option.
What happens after? You’ll likely feel tired for a few days. Some people have a stuffy nose or mild headache. Hormone levels can drop right after surgery, so doctors check them closely. You might need to take replacement hormones like cortisol or thyroid medicine until your body adjusts. Most people get back to normal activities in under two weeks. Follow-up scans and blood tests are normal—this isn’t a one-and-done fix. Tumors can come back, so staying on top of your care matters.
Not everyone needs surgery. Some small tumors are just watched. Others respond to pills that shrink them. But if you’re losing vision, getting severe headaches, or your hormones are out of control, surgery is often the best answer. It’s not glamorous, but it works. The success rate for removing these tumors is high—especially when done by experienced teams.
Below, you’ll find real-world guides on what to expect before, during, and after pituitary surgery. We cover recovery tips, how it affects your hormones, what drugs you might need afterward, and how it connects to other treatments like radiation or medication. No fluff. Just clear, practical info from people who’ve been through it.
Cushing’s syndrome is caused by too much cortisol, often from a tumor. Surgery is the most effective cure - especially for pituitary or adrenal tumors. Learn how it works, what to expect, and why timing matters.
