Procedure Type
SurgicalProcedure Duration
30 min - 1 hrsHospital Stay (Days)
1 - 2 daysA tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils—two small glands located at the back of the throat. These glands are part of the immune system and help fight infection, especially during childhood. However, when the tonsils become chronically infected or enlarged to the point of interfering with breathing or swallowing, removal becomes necessary. The procedure is most often recommended for patients experiencing frequent tonsillitis, obstructive sleep apnea, breathing difficulties, or complications like abscesses or repeated ear infections linked to enlarged tonsils.
Children are the most common candidates for a tonsillectomy, especially those who suffer from repeated episodes of tonsillitis, sleep-disordered breathing, or snoring due to enlarged tonsils. However, adults may also need the procedure if chronic throat infections or sleep apnea interfere with their daily life or lead to other complications. In some cases, a tonsillectomy is performed to investigate or treat suspected cancer of the tonsils.
Before the procedure, the doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, including reviewing the patient’s medical history, current medications, and any previous infections. Patients are typically advised to fast for several hours before surgery and to stop taking certain medications such as blood thinners. Preoperative instructions also include hydration and ensuring the patient is free from active infection at the time of surgery. The surgical team may order blood tests or imaging if necessary to ensure safety.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient will be completely unconscious and feel no pain during surgery. The surgeon accesses the tonsils through the mouth, so there are no external incisions. Various surgical techniques may be used, including traditional dissection with a scalpel, electrocautery, laser, or coblation (a technique that uses radiofrequency energy and saline to remove tissue). The entire surgery typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. Once the tonsils are removed, the surgical area is carefully cauterized to minimize bleeding.
PRINCIPAL DIRECTOR ENT
MBBS, MS - ENT, DNB - Otorhinolaryngology ENT/ Otorhinolaryngologist
Recovery after a tonsillectomy generally takes about one to two weeks. Patients often experience a sore throat, ear pain, mild fever, and fatigue. Eating soft foods and drinking plenty of fluids are important during the healing period. Pain is managed with prescribed medications, and rest is critical to support recovery. It’s normal to see white patches or scabs in the throat as healing progresses, and these usually resolve on their own. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activity and spicy or hard foods for at least a week.
As with any surgery, a tonsillectomy comes with potential risks, although serious complications are rare. Common risks include pain, bleeding during or after surgery, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Delayed bleeding may occur about a week after surgery when the healing scabs begin to fall off. In very rare cases, changes in voice or taste can be experienced. It’s important to follow post-surgical instructions carefully to minimize risks and promote healing.
For patients with recurrent tonsillitis or obstructive sleep apnea, a tonsillectomy can significantly improve quality of life. The frequency and severity of throat infections often reduce dramatically, and symptoms like snoring or interrupted sleep may resolve completely. Studies have shown that patients, especially children, experience fewer missed school or workdays and overall better health following the procedure.
Faridabad, India
Chennai, India
Mumbai, India
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