During a tonsillectomy, an ear, nose, and throat doctor surgically removes the patient’s tonsils. This is usually done to eliminate inflammation or improve breathing.  The procedure is sometimes the best course of action for certain chronic health conditions. Below is an introduction to tonsillectomies, including what to expect and how to have a successful recovery.

Why It's Done

Frequent, recurrent tonsillitis — an inflammation of tonsil tissue — is one of the main reasons doctors order tonsillectomies. Chronically enlarged tonsils that inhibit a person's breathing and eating also sometimes require a tonsillectomy. On rare occasions, bleeding or disease will affect the tonsils and necessitate their removal, as well as, recurrent tonsil stones that can cause bad breath. 

The Procedure

There are a few different ways to remove the tonsils. Your ear, nose, and throat doctor will discuss the method they intend to use with you beforehand. You will be asleep during the procedure, so you will feel no discomfort.  A popular method is to remove inflamed tonsil tissue through cauterization. The surgery only takes between 30 minutes and an hour, but you’ll likely feel the effects of the anesthesia for a few hours more.

Aftercare

After a tonsillectomy, prepare for some downtime. Children tend to recover quicker than adults. Take time off school or work, limit physical activities, and don't travel. Drink plenty of fluids, and eat soft, bland foods that are easy to swallow. Take all medication as prescribed by your doctor.

If you're having issues with your tonsils, have them checked out by an ear, nose, and throat doctor. Glacier Ear Nose & Throat and Glacier Hearing Service, located in Kalispell, MT, has been serving Flathead County for over 30 years. In addition to throat- and sinus-related diagnoses and treatments, they offer hearing and allergy testing as well as hearing aid services. Call (406) 752-8330 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to learn more about their ENT services.