Tonsillectomy is a surgery to remove thetonsils, lymphatic organs in the throat that protect your body from infection.
Like tonsils, they are part of the lymphatic andimmune systems.
In some casesmost often in childrena tonsillectomy andadenoidectomy(surgical removal of the adenoids) are performed simultaneously.
Illustration by Emily Roberts, Verywell
This surgery is dubbed a T&A.
This article explains when doctors advise tonsillectomy and what to expect from the procedure and recovery.
What Is Tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is performed undergeneral anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure.
The surgeon removes the tonsils through an open mouth, so theres minimal cutting and no scarring.
Most tonsillectomies are outpatient procedures in a hospital.
However, in some cases, you may need to stay overnight.
Why Is It Done?
The tonsils are glands on both sides of the back of the throat that help protect against infections.
Also, call 911 if you have trouble breathing, start drooling, or have significant difficulty swallowing.
Contraindications
Both adults and children have tonsillectomies.
But children younger than 2 years old may have a higher risk of respiratory complications with this surgery.
Still, infection post-surgery can occur.
In addition,general surgical risksinclude:
Most people tolerate tonsillectomy well.
In addition, some people experience complications associated with anesthesia.
Both kids and adults may feel anxious about this surgery.
Your surgeon can help answer any questions you or your child may have.
Often, talking with your doctor can ease your concerns.
If your child is having a tonsillectomy, talk to them about any worries.
Reassure them that the procedure will make them better and that they wont look any different afterward.
Location
A tonsillectomy usually occurs in an operating room at a hospital or a surgical center.
In either case, youll likely go home the same day.
Leave any jewelry at home so you dont worry about losing it at the hospital or surgical center.
Inform your doctor of any over-the-counter (OTC) products, prescriptions, vitamins, and herbs.
What to Bring
Be sure to bring your health insurance card and any paperwork youve filled out.
For example, your child might like to bring a blanket, toy, or stuffed animal.
If youre the one having the tonsillectomy, remember to make arrangements for someone to take you back home.
Then the anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia.
The surgeon will place a small tool in the mouth to hold it open.
Then, they will remove the tonsils by cutting, burning, or shaving them away.
These wounds heal naturally and dont require stitches.
The tonsillectomy procedure will usually take about 20 to 30 minutes.
After the Surgery
You or your child will wake up in the recovery area.
The staff will provide close observation for several hours.
Easy breathing, coughing, and swallowing are all milestones youll need to meet before discharge.
If your child has complications, like bleeding or slow recovery, they may need to spend the night.
The procedure typically takes only 20 to 30 minutes.
During the process, the surgeon will remove your tonsils by cutting, burning, or shaving them.
Recovery
Adults usually recover more slowly from tonsillectomies than kids.
Children tend to recover in about a week after surgery, while adults need 10 to 14 days.
Be sure to take in lots of fluids or offer your child a drink often.
Allow for up to a week of rest after tonsillectomy.
In addition, you or your child should avoid blowing your nose forcefully for two weeks after surgery.
Also, avoid any strenuous activities or sports for two weeks.
The healthcare provider will let you know when light activities are OK. ## Coping
Pain in the throat will probably last for several to 10 days.
However, children younger than 12 years should not be given codeine after tonsillectomy.
It can take up to two weeks to recover from a tonsillectomy.
Children tend to bounce back more quickly, while adults may experience pain longer.
In addition, taking pain medications as advised by your doctor can help manage your pain.
Summary
You may need a tonsillectomy if you have recurrent infections or difficulty breathing while you sleep.
You will be asleep during the 20- to 30-minute procedure, and most people go home the same day.
Recovery generally takes one to two weeks.
Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about expectations before and after the tonsillectomy.
Theyll discuss the risks and benefits and help you determine whether a tonsillectomy is the best treatment for you.
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