Surgery (Tonsillectomy)
A tonsillectomy is a surgical intervention to remove the tonsils – two small glands found at the back of your throat. You might need a tonsillectomy if you experience frequent episodes of tonsillitis. (8)
Your tonsils store white blood cells able to fight infection, but sometimes they themselves become infected. A tonsil infection can cause your tonsils to swell and give you a sore throat. There are also other troublesome symptoms of tonsillitis, such as high grade fever, difficulty swallowing or sleeping, and swollen glands. There may be a whitish or yellow coating on your tonsils and your throat may be reddened.
The swelling may subside on its own. Other times (in recurrent or chronic cases), tonsillectomy might be required. You can also undergo a tonsillectomy if your tonsillitis is causing breathing issues like sleep apnea or heavy snoring.
Who needs a tonsillectomy?
Children are more likely to suffer from tonsillitis and need tonsillectomies than adults. However, it is possible for anyone to experience problems with their tonsils and need surgery.
The presence of one episode of tonsillitis does not warrant a tonsillectomy. A tonsillectomy is usually considered a treatment option for those who are frequently ill with tonsillitis or strep throat. Consult your doctor if you’ve had at least seven cases of tonsillitis or strep in the last year (or five or more in each of the last two years). You could also undergo a tonsillectomy for the following complications caused by the infection:
- Bleeding of the tonsils
- Frequent and loud snoring
- Sleep apnea (periods of interrupted sleep – in which you stop breathing during sleep)
- Swollen tonsils causing breathing problems
- Cancer of the tonsils
Procedure
There are several ways to remove tonsils. Cold knife dissection (steel) is one of the most common methods. A scalpel is used to remove your tonsils in this case. The cauterization process is another common method for tonsillectomy. Tonsillectomy procedures can also be performed using ultrasonic vibration (using sound waves). It usually takes about a half hour to perform a tonsillectomy procedure.
A general anesthetic will keep you asleep regardless of which surgical method your doctor chooses. The surgery won’t cause you any pain or discomfort during the procedure. You’ll be in a recovery room when you wake up after the tonsillectomy. Your blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored as soon as you wake up. After a successful tonsillectomy, most people can go home the same day.
Recovery
During the recovery period from a tonsillectomy, some patients may experience pain. The sore throat you might experience after surgery is normal. Your jaw, ears, and neck may also hurt. It is important to get plenty of rest after surgery, especially in the first two to three days.
Stay hydrated by drinking water or eating ice pops. Early recovery is best achieved with warm, clear broth and applesauce. Soft foods such as oatmeal, ice cream, pudding, and other soft foods can be added after a few days.After a tonsillectomy, avoid eating anything spicy, hard, or crunchy for several days..
You may be able to feel better while you are recovering with pain medication. You should take your medicines exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you experience fever or bleeding after a tonsillectomy, contact your doctor right away. It is normal and expected that you will snore for the first two weeks after the procedure. Contact your surgeon if you experience breathing difficulties after two weeks.
After a tonsillectomy, most people can return to work or school within two weeks. The majority of people who undergo tonsillectomy have fewer future throat infections.