A tonsillectomy is a procedure to surgically remove the tonsils. Most often, it is performed on children who experience repeated infection and inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis), or who have trouble breathing due to airway obstruction. However, people of any age may undergo a tonsillectomy.

The tonsils are made up of two masses of tissue on either side of the neck. Tonsils help the body’s immune system collect germs in the body. However, in some cases these germs remain in the tonsils long enough to cause infection and inflammation of the tonsils.

Patients are urged to follow their physician’s advice in preparing for the tonsillectomy. In most cases, patients are asked not to eat or drink anything the evening before the surgery. They also may be advised to avoid certain medications for a period of time prior to the surgery.

Various techniques may be used in a tonsillectomy. In some cases, all of the tissue that makes up the tonsils will be removed. In other cases, only part of the tonsil tissue is excised. Depending on the technique used, patients may be unconscious or conscious during the tonsillectomy. Either way, anesthetia is used so the procedure is pain-free.

Most patients are allowed to go home the day of the surgery. Patients who are placed under general anesthesia typically will have to remain in a recovery room for a few hours following the procedure. It is common to experience a sore throat or ear ache following a tonsillectomy. Patients are likely to notice a sharp reduction in post-operative symptoms and discomfort within a few days.