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Adult Tonsillectomy

Welcome to our patient information page about adult tonsillectomy surgery. You can learn more about what to expect when you are scheduled for a tonsillectomy as an adult. Find pre- and post-operative instructions here.

Have any questions about your upcoming tonsillectomy procedure with Dr. Karamy?

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Patient Information for Adult Tonsillectomy

What is Adult Tonsillectomy?

Adult tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils - the two oval-shaped lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat. While tonsillectomies are more commonly associated with children, they can be recommended for adults in certain cases. Generally would recommend if you are a candidate to go with the more well tolerated conservative treatments, laser tonsil resurfacing. However not all patients are candidates and some indications warrant the traditional painful tonsillectomy.

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Indications for Adult Tonsillectomy

Adult tonsillectomy may be recommended for the following conditions:

  1. Recurrent or Chronic Tonsillitis: If you experience frequent or severe tonsillitis infections that significantly impact your quality of life, removal of the tonsils may be considered.

  2. Tonsil-Related Breathing Difficulties: Enlarged tonsils can cause obstructive breathing during sleep or even during waking hours, leading to discomfort and difficulty breathing.

  3. Tonsil-Related Sleep Apnea: In some cases, enlarged tonsils may contribute to obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing is disrupted during sleep.

  4. Peritonsillar Abscess: An abscess or collection of pus near the tonsils may require surgical drainage and potential tonsillectomy.

What Happens During a Tonsillectomy Surgery?

A tonsillectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep during the procedure. The surgeon will carefully remove the tonsils using surgical instruments.

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During the procedure, you will be carefully monitored by an anesthesiologist, and the surgery itself usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Afterward, the patient will be taken to a recovery area to wake up from anesthesia.

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Pre-Operative Instructions for Adult Tonsillectomy

Before an adult tonsillectomy, you will receive specific instructions from your healthcare provider, including:

  • Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter supplements. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before the surgery.

  • Fasting: You will likely be instructed not to eat or drink anything for a specified period before the surgery, usually starting at midnight the night before the procedure.

  • Arrangements: Plan for someone to drive you home after the surgery, as you will be groggy from the anesthesia.

  • Downtime: You will need about 14 days off work at minimum. Most people don't stop their opioid pain medication use until after this. 

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Post-Operative Care & Instructions

After your tonsillectomy, you will need to follow specific post-operative care instructions:

  • Recovery Period: Plan for two weeks of recovery, during which you will experience excruciating throat pain, ear pain, and difficulty swallowing. Some people have pain beyond 14 days as well. Its natural to have some milder discomfort for up to 1 month.

  • Pain Management: You will be prescribed an opioid that often combines in acetaminophen. You may also be prescribed celebrex to take in addition.

  • Dietary Guidelines: Initially, consume soft foods and cool liquids to ease swallowing. Avoid spicy, acidic, hard or hot foods that can irritate the throat.

  • Hydration: Stay well-hydrated with frequent sips of water or clear liquids.

  • Rest: Adequate rest is crucial during the recovery period to support healing.

  • Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous physical activities and  lifting more than 20 lbs for two weeks.

  • Follow-Up: Most people do fairly well after the hard recovery period and so we do not arrange routine follow up. The exception is if you did this for sleep apnea we will want to repeat a sleep study.

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Potential Complications and When to Seek Medical Attention:

While adult tonsillectomy is generally safe, complications can occur. Go to the emergency room if you have:

  • Excessive bleeding: Some scant blood tinge saliva is normal after the surgery, but persistent or heavy bleeding needs to be evaluated.

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If you need a refill for pain medication or have questions after a tonsillectomy procedure with Dr. Karamy, please contact us​. For emergencies, please go to urgent care.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this webpage is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations.

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