A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove the tonsils. Sometimes the adenoids are removed at the same time. Your doctor will do the surgery through your child's mouth. After the surgery, your child may not have a sore throat as often. If your child had trouble breathing at night, those breathing problems may improve.
Your child will be fine without tonsils and will not look different. You won't be able to see any scars from the surgery.
Children can usually go home 2 to 4 hours after the surgery. They usually have a sore throat and ear pain for up to 2 weeks after surgery. Your child will probably be able to go back to school or day care in 1 week and to full activity in 2 weeks.
Tonsillectomy is surgery to remove the tonsils. It's generally used for children who have repeated infections, especially when they interfere with daily life. It may also be done to treat snoring and sleep apnea caused by large tonsils. But it should only be done after you and your doctor carefully think about your child's medical history and overall health.
Tonsillectomy may also be done for problems such as a peritonsillar abscess or cancer.
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Surgery can be stressful for both your child and you. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your child's surgery.
©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated