Tonsillectomy
Removal of the tonsils, considered for repeated infections or breathing difficulty during sleep.
Stay
Day care or short stay
Duration
About 30-45 minutes
Anaesthesia
General
About Tonsillectomy
A tonsillectomy removes the tonsils from the back of the throat. It is usually considered after repeated throat infections, or where enlarged tonsils obstruct breathing during sleep. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and is common in children as well as adults.
Before you read on
Everything here is general information about tonsillectomy. Whether it suits you, and how it would be done in your case, is a decision for your doctor after examining you.
Your consultant's instructions always take precedence over anything written on this page.
When is it recommended?
Situations in which a doctor may suggest tonsillectomy.
- Repeated episodes of tonsillitis
- Enlarged tonsils causing obstructed breathing or sleep apnoea
- Difficulty swallowing due to tonsil size
Procedure details
The usual sequence, from first consultation through to follow-up.
ENT assessment
Your history of infections and an examination of the throat determine whether surgery is appropriate.
Surgery
The tonsils are removed through the mouth under general anaesthesia, with no external incision.
Recovery
Throat pain for several days is expected. Cold fluids and prescribed pain relief help considerably.
Diet and follow-up
A soft diet is advised initially, with a review appointment to check healing.
How to prepare
What to sort out before you come in.
- A pre-anaesthetic review, particularly for children
- Fasting from the time your team specifies
- Postpone if there is an active throat infection on the day
- Stock up on soft, cool foods for the recovery period
Recovery
What to expect afterwards, and roughly when.
- Usually home the same day or after one night
- Throat pain peaks around days five to seven - regular pain relief helps
- Eating and drinking normally speeds healing, despite the discomfort
- Contact us at once if there is any bleeding from the throat
Why choose Humayun?
What you can expect from us, whichever department you come in through.
Experienced specialists
Consultants who perform these procedures routinely, not occasionally.
Everything on one campus
Theatres, critical care, diagnostics and pharmacy in the same building, so care is not split across sites.
Safety you can check
Infection control, consent and clinical protocols audited against national accreditation standards.
In-house diagnostics
Laboratory and imaging on site, so results reach your doctor the same day rather than after a referral.
Clear about cost
You are told what a treatment involves and what it is likely to cost before you consent to it.
Support around the clock
A 24×7 emergency department and critical care units, whatever time you need us.
Your Health Matters
Take the next step towards better healthcare.
Connect with our experienced specialists and find the right care for you and your family.
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