Tonsillectomy: Preparation, Recovery and Common Side Effects Explained

• Frequent Infections: If you get sore throats or tonsillitis often, your doctor might suggest removing your tonsils.

• Sleep Apnea: Big tonsils can block your airway and make it hard to breathe when you sleep. This can cause loud snoring and make you feel tired during the day.

• Difficulty Swallowing: Large tonsils can make it hard or painful to swallow.

• Abscess: Rarely, a pocket of pus called an abscess can form near your tonsils and may need surgery.

Types of Tonsillectomy

• Traditional Tonsillectomy: The doctor uses a scalpel to cut out the tonsils. This is the most common way.

• Laser Tonsillectomy: A laser is used to remove the tonsils with less bleeding. This is less common.

Benefits:

• Fewer Infections: You will likely get fewer throat infections after surgery.

• Better Breathing: If your tonsils were blocking your airway, you may sleep and breathe better.

• Less Pain: If you had constant throat pain, surgery can help you feel better.

Risks:

• Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal, but too much can be dangerous.

• Infection: There is a small chance of getting an infection after surgery.

• Pain: Your throat will hurt for several days after surgery.

• Dehydration: If it hurts to swallow, you might not drink enough fluids.

Before your tonsillectomy, your healthcare team will provide specific instructions. Common preparations include:

• Medical Prep: You may need a check-up and blood tests. You must not eat or drink for 6–8 hours before surgery. Tell your doctor about any medicines you take.

• Practical Prep: Pack comfortable clothes and things you need for the hospital. Arrange for someone to drive you home and help you after surgery.

• Emotional Prep: It’s normal to feel nervous. Talk to your doctor about your worries and ask about pain relief.

What Happens During Surgery?

• You will go to the hospital and check in.

• The doctor will give you medicine so you sleep and feel no pain.

• The surgery takes about 30–45 minutes. The doctor removes your tonsils through your mouth.

• Any bleeding is stopped using heat or stitches.

• After surgery, you will wake up in a recovery room and be watched by nurses.

First 24 Hours:

• You may feel sleepy and have a sore throat.

• Nurses will help you start drinking small sips of water.

• You will rest and be watched for any problems.

At Home:

• Rest: Take it easy and avoid hard activities for at least two weeks.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, like water or cold drinks. Don’t use a straw.

• Soft Foods: Eat foods that are easy to swallow, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, and soup. Avoid spicy, crunchy, or acidic foods.

• Avoid Certain Activities: Don’t yell, cough hard, or be around smoke.

Common Side Effects:

• Pain: Your throat will hurt. Take pain medicine as your doctor says.

• Swelling: Your throat might swell and make swallowing hard.

• Bad Breath: This is normal and goes away as you heal.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Drink fluids often to prevent dehydration.

• Use a cold pack on your neck to help with pain and swelling.

• Rest your voice and talk as little as possible.

• Ask for help from family or friends with meals and chores.

• Watch for problems: Call your doctor if you have heavy bleeding, trouble breathing, or a fever.

Diet and Products That Help

• Cold drinks and ice cream can soothe your throat.

• Soft foods like pudding, oatmeal, and soup are best.

• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help, but follow your doctor’s instructions.

• Throat sprays and ice packs can also make you feel better.

Final Thoughts

Recovering from a tonsillectomy takes time. Rest, drink fluids, eat soft foods, and follow your doctor’s advice. If you have any problems, get help right away. With the right care, you will feel better soon.