When people think about having tonsils removed, they think that the operation is for children. In fact, there are a lot of adults who have their tonsils removed for tonsil related problems. While the tonsils are two groups of lymph tissues located at the back of the throat, are part of the body’s immune system, and defend against bacteria that is inhaled through the nose and the mouth.
However, when there is a bacterial infection in the tonsils, called tonsillitis, the tonsils can swell which can result in a fever, swollen glands, a sore throat, a strep throat, difficulty breathing, and laryngitis. When home remedies and antibiotics do not help, and these symptoms last for several weeks or recur several times a year, a tonsillectomy may cure the frequency, the pain, and the suffering. A tonsillectomy is also a viable solution for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea caused by constantly swollen tonsils.
Before the operation is performed, you will be instructed on home health care while you are recuperating. Children tend to recover within a week, but adults will need 2 to 3 weeks to fully recover. You will be given a list of the appropriate soft foods and liquids to eat and drink while your throat is healing. Yes, you will need to rest, take any prescribed medications, and not rush to resume your daily activities.
Tonsillectomy Procedures
The most common procedure for a tonsillectomy is called a cold knife dissection, and it takes between 30 minutes to an hour for completion. You will be given a general anesthesia before the operation so you will be asleep and not feel any pain. The surgeon will use a scalpel to completely remove your tonsils. There are no incisions or stitches, so there is no scarring. After the operation, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored until you wake up. If you are not staying overnight in the hospital, you will be able to go home. You will need to arrange for a ride home because you will be allowed to drive.
Recovery From Surgery
Before leaving the hospital, the surgeon or one of the staff members will review your at-home care instructions with you, explain when to call the surgeon if you become aware of any signs of post-operative infections or dehydration, and schedule a follow office visit with the surgeon to evaluate your healing progress.
