Surgical removal of the palatine tonsils for conditions such as recurrent infection, obstructive enlargement, snoring, or sleep apnea.
Indication
- Multiple recurrent episodes of bacterial tonsillitis per year
- Obstructive sleep apnea and significant snoring caused by tonsillar enlargement (hypertrophy)
- Enlarged tonsils causing difficulty swallowing or speech disturbance
- History of peritonsillar abscess
- Chronic tonsillitis unresponsive to antibiotic therapy
- Suspected mass or tumor of the tonsil
Preparation
- Fasting (no food or fluid) for at least 6-8 hours before surgery is required
- Use of blood thinners, herbal supplements, and aspirin must be reported in advance
- Surgery is usually postponed during active infection; report any cold or fever to the physician
- In children, accompanying conditions (asthma, allergies, etc.) and family bleeding history are evaluated
- Anesthesia consultation and required pre-operative tests are completed
How it's performed
- Under general anesthesia, a mouth gag is placed for access
- The tonsils are removed through the mouth without any skin incision
- Tonsillar tissue is removed using conventional surgery, electrocautery, radiofrequency, or similar techniques
- Bleeding is carefully controlled; sutures are usually not required
- Surgery typically takes 30-45 minutes; the patient is monitored in recovery
- Adenoid removal or ear tube placement may be performed at the same session if needed
Post-procedure
- Same-day discharge or one night of observation; the decision in children is individualized
- Cool, soft, and bland foods for the first week; avoid spicy, acidic, and hard foods
- Plenty of fluids and regular use of pain relievers
- Full recovery takes about 2 weeks; mild ear pain is common during this period
- Avoid strenuous exercise, swimming pools, and high-altitude activities for the first 2 weeks
- Seek immediate care for bleeding, high fever, or inability to eat or drink
Risks
- Post-operative bleeding (typically within the first 24 hours or between days 5-10, 1-3%)
- Throat pain, ear pain, and temporary difficulty swallowing
- Dehydration (especially in children with insufficient fluid intake)
- General anesthesia-related risks (allergy, respiratory effects)
- Temporary changes in voice or taste (rare)
- Very rare injury to neighboring tissue
FAQ
From what age can tonsillectomy be performed?
It is generally safe in children over 3 years of age. The decision is individualized based on infection frequency, obstructive symptoms such as sleep apnea, and effects on growth.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Pain and mild symptoms generally last 1-2 weeks. Recovery in adults may be slightly longer and more painful than in children. Comfortable swallowing gradually returns within 7-10 days.
Will my immunity weaken after the tonsils are removed?
The tonsils are a small part of the immune system; once removed, general immune defense is maintained by other tissues. Current scientific data support that no permanent immune problems occur after surgery in patients with frequent infections.
What should I eat after surgery, and what should I avoid?
In the first week, cool or warm soft foods (yogurt, ice cream, soup, puree) are preferred. Avoid acidic, spicy, very hot, and hard foods. Plenty of fluid intake is important.
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