We no longer accept Medicare Advantage or Medicare Replacement plans. We DO accept Traditional Medicare with a secondary/supplement.

When Is Tonsil Removal Surgery Recommended?

Tonsil Removal Surgery 5.10.18Tonsil removal surgery is a very common procedure that can be performed for a variety of different reasons.

What Is Tonsil Removal Surgery?

Tonsil removal surgery is commonly called a tonsillectomy. It’s a surgical removal of the tonsils, which are two pads located in the back of your throat. Although your tonsils are part of your body’s immune system, having them removed won’t make you more likely to get an infection.

The adenoids, which are located near the tonsils and perform a similar function, are also frequently removed during the same procedure.

The surgery is frequently thought of as being performed on children, but adults also often need a tonsillectomy.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

A tonsillectomy is performed under general anesthesia, so you won’t have any awareness or pain during the surgery.

Your doctor can remove your tonsils by using a scalpel or with a surgical tool that uses heat or sound waves to destroy tissue. The procedure will take about an hour, and you’ll typically be able to go home the same day.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for a Tonsillectomy?

This procedure is often performed for one of the following reasons:

  • Snoring – Enlarged tonsils can block your airways during sleep, causing chronic snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. This dangerous disorder causes repeated pauses in breathing as you sleep.
  • Infections – Recurring throat infections that occur six or more times a year can cause your tonsils to become infected and swollen. A tonsillectomy can be performed if antibiotics aren’t effective or for patients who can’t take antibiotics.
  • Abnormal growths – Tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) may also form and make removal of the tonsils necessary.

What Symptoms Indicate You May Need a Tonsillectomy?

Although some of the following symptoms can also accompany other health issues, they can also be a sign of tonsillitis (inflamed tonsils):

  • Pain that’s on one side of your throat
  • Painful or difficult swallowing
  • Fever
  • Swollen lymph nodes in your neck
  • Severe or recurring sore throat
  • White or yellow coating on your tonsils

What is Involved with the Recovery of a Tonsillectomy?       

Most people experience some pain after a tonsillectomy, so you’ll probably be advised to take pain medication. The pain may get worse 3 or 4 days after your surgery, especially when you first wake up, and it can last for up to two weeks.

The following can help make your recovery easier while preventing complications:

  • Rest – Staying on bed rest for a few days and avoiding strenuous activities for about two weeks
  • Fluids – Drinking plenty of fluids to avoid getting dehydrated
  • Easy-to-swallow foods – Choosing bland, easy-to-swallow, soft, or cool foods immediately after surgery, such as ice cream, yogurt, pudding, applesauce and scrambled eggs; avoiding crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods

If you’re experiencing any symptoms that could indicate the need for tonsil removal surgery, make an appointment today for an evaluation with Lakeside Allergy ENT. We have three convenient locations in Rockwall and Forney, TX, and our staff is pleased to provide compassionate, personalized care for patients of all ages.

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Office will be closed April 8 due to school closures for the eclipse in the area.