Tonsillectomy

The tonsils are a pair of soft tissue masses that are found in the back of the throat. Their job is to help filter germs that have entered through the mouth or nose. If the tonsils become infected, it can lead to inflammation, pain, bleeding, and other complications such as recurrent tonsillitis.

Find your ENT Request Appointment

A tonsillectomy is the removal of the tonsils. It’s typically recommended to treat obstructive sleep apnea and recurrent episodes of tonsillitis. At SFENTA, our ear, nose, and throat specialists have years of experience performing successful tonsillectomies for patients of all ages. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Your Tonsillectomy Procedure

A tonsillectomy is done on an outpatient basis, which means you should be able to return home immediately after the surgery. However, if the procedure is done on a young child or complications arise, the surgeon may insist on an overnight hospital stay.

The procedure is done under general anesthesia, and no external incisions are necessary. Once the surgery is complete, you will be taken to the recovery room, where you will be monitored closely.

Conditions Treated by Tonsillectomy

The main reasons why a tonsillectomy will be recommended are due to sleep apnea, chronic tonsillitis, cancerous tissues in the tonsils, or other effects related to tonsil infections. This includes:

Tonsillectomy Benefits

A tonsillectomy can have many benefits for those with chronic tonsil conditions. First and foremost, it can put a permanent end to repeated tonsil infections and inflammation. It can also help patients breathe more easily both while awake and asleep.

The surgery is also short and does not require an overnight stay. This allows you to recover comfortably at home a few hours after the surgery is completed.

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About SFENTA

SFENTA has spent the last 30 years building a network of providers and practices that make quality ENT care more accessible than ever. With over 50 board-certified providers and more than 30 locations, SFENTA is prepared to address various ENT concerns and symptoms.

SFENTA has set itself apart in ENT care by offering:

Patient-Centered Care

Each of our offices provide one-on-one care between patients and their providers, giving you the dedicated time and attention you deserve.

Continuity of Care

Our goal is to help patients find long-lasting relief from all of their symptoms — not just one.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

Our provider network is designed to foster internal collaboration, with providers sharing their expertise, latest treatment methods, and clinical knowledge. This ultimately helps each provider find the best outcomes for their patients.

The Security of a Community Staple

With over 30 locations across the area, you can feel confident we’ll be here when you need us.

Who is a Candidate?

To find out if you are a candidate for a tonsillectomy, contact SFENTA for an evaluation with one of our providers. The most common candidates are those who have had recurrent tonsillitis. Other conditions that may indicate candidacy are those who have difficulty breathing during sleep or while awake, bleeding from the tonsils, or enlarged tonsils that impact your natural function or cause discomfort.

At your initial appointment with our providers, they will determine whether you are a candidate. During this time they may examine your tonsils, review your symptoms, and discuss your medical history. If for some reason you are not a candidate, they can provide an alternate treatment path.

What to Expect After Surgery

Treat your pain as directed. Your SFENTA physician will prescribe pain medication to manage your discomfort after surgery.
Get plenty of fluids. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day and suck on ice pops to prevent dehydration.
Adopt a bland diet. Immediately after surgery, most patients thrive on a bland diet of applesauce, broth, and similar foods. Avoid acidic, spicy, and crunchy foods until you are fully healed.
Rest. Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities and exercise for at least two weeks. Once your diet has normalized and you’re no longer taking pain medication, you will be cleared to resume your daily routine.

FAQ

Will removing the tonsils increase risk of infection?

The tonsils are a vital part of a child’s immune system, so many patients wonder if a tonsillectomy will leave them more susceptible to infection. Fortunately, the answer is no. Once the immune system is fully formed, the body can protect itself sufficiently without tonsils.