Adult Tonsillectomy

The tonsils are 2 small masses of tissue at the back of the throat. They are part of the body’s immune system. This helps the body fight disease. In some people, the tonsils become infected or enlarged. This can cause severe sore throats, snoring, or other problems. Tonsillectomy is surgery to remove the tonsils. Tonsillectomy may be recommended if you have obstruction causing sleep apnea, or recurring, chronic, or severe infections. 

Preparing for surgery

Prepare as you have been told. Tell your healthcare provider about all medicine you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs. It also includes herbs and other supplements. You may need to stop taking some or all of them before surgery as directed by your healthcare provider. Also, follow any directions you’re given for not eating or drinking before surgery.

The day of surgery

The surgery takes about 60 minutes. You will likely go home on the same day.

Before the surgery

Here is what to expect before the surgery begins:

• An IV line is put into a vein in your arm or hand. This line supplies fluids and medicines.

• To keep you free of pain during the surgery, you’re given general anesthesia. This medicine puts you into a state like deep sleep through the surgery.

During the surgery

Here is what to expect during the surgery:

• A tube will be placed in your throat to keep your airway open.

• A special device is used to keep the mouth open.

• Other tools are used to remove the tonsils or part of the tonsils  from the back of the throat. The tissue is taken out through the mouth.

• The device holding the mouth open and the tube are then removed.

After the surgery

You will be taken to a recovery room. Healthcare staff will make sure you can drink some liquids. They will also make sure your pain is being managed. When you are ready to leave the hospital, you will need to be driven home by an adult family member or friend.

Recovering at home

It will likely take about 2 weeks to heal from the surgery. During your recovery:

• Expect to have throat pain. You may also feel pain in your ears. This is “referred” pain from the throat, and is normal. Your post-surgery pain may come and go. It may be worse on the 1st or 2nd day after surgery.

• Talk as little as possible, if it is painful.

• Take pain medicine as directed.

• Don't drive while you are on opioid or narcotic pain medicine. Expect to feel sleepy or dizzy while you are taking this medicine.

• Don't use ibuprofen or aspirin for 14 days after surgery unless your healthcare provider says it’s OK. You may use acetaminophen as directed.

• Use 2 or 3 pillows under your head while resting. This will help keep swelling down.

• Drink plenty of chilled liquids. Water, noncitrus juices, and frozen juice bars are good choices.

• Eat cold foods and soft foods, which are easiest to swallow. Try foods like ice cream, gelatin, scrambled eggs, pasta, and mashed potatoes.

• Don't eat foods that need a lot of chewing. Also avoid foods that may scratch the throat, like toast or potato chips. Don't have hot, spicy, or acidic foods.

• Don't do strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 2 weeks after surgery.

• Be aware that white patches will form in the throat during healing. These are scabs and are not a sign of infection. The patches will come off in  6 to 9 days and may cause a small amount of  bleeding. To minimize bleeding, drink plenty of fluids. Gargling with cold water can help.

Follow-up

Schedule a follow-up visit with your healthcare provider as advised. During this visit, the healthcare provider will make sure you are healing well. Ask any questions you have about the surgery or your recovery.