What is Tonsillectomy Surgery?
Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils, the two lymph nodes located at the back of the throat. The tonsils are part of the immune system and help fight infections, especially in children. However, due to chronic or repeated infections tonsils become enlarged or inflamed. As a result, tonsillectomy may be required for the surgical removal of the tonsils.
The tonsillectomy procedure is usually done under general anaesthesia and is relatively safe. It is most commonly recommended for recurrent tonsillitis, sleep-disordered breathing, or abscesses that do not respond to other treatments.
What are the Different Types of Tonsillectomy Surgeries?
There are different types of tonsillectomy surgeries recommended by the ENT surgeon depending on the general health of the patient, severity of symptoms, expertise of the surgeon, availability of the medical equipment, and preference of the patient. The ENT specialist usually recommends the following types of tonsillectomy surgeries:
Cold Knife (Steel) Dissection
This is the traditional and most widely used technique. The surgeon removes the tonsils using a scalpel (cold knife). Bleeding is controlled by tying off blood vessels (ligatures) or using heat (cautery). The procedure is reliable and cost-effective, but may involve more post-operative pain compared to newer methods.
Electrocautery Tonsillectomy
This method uses high-frequency electrical current to cauterise (burn away) the tonsil tissue while sealing blood vessels at the same time. One of the advanced forms of this procedure is bipolar electrocautery tonsillectomy, which offers increased precision and reduced postoperative complications compared to traditional methods. It minimises the bleeding during the surgery but can cause more surrounding tissue damage, potentially increasing post-op pain.
Coblation (controlled ablation) uses radiofrequency energy combined with a saline solution to remove tonsil tissue at a much lower temperature than electrocautery. This type of tonsillectomy offers less pain and faster recovery, along with minimal thermal damage.
Harmonic Scalpel Tonsillectomy
This technique uses ultrasonic vibration to simultaneously cut and coagulate the tissue. It offers precision and reduces bleeding. It offers less thermal damage and quicker healing.
Microdebrider (Powered Intracapsular) Tonsillectomy
This modern method involves shaving away tonsil tissue using a rotary device (microdebrider) while leaving the tonsil capsule intact. This method offers less pain, lower risk of bleeding, and quicker recovery. However, there is a small risk that residual tissue could regrow or cause symptoms later.
Which Condition can be Treated with Tonsillectomy Surgery?
Tonsillectomy surgery (removal of the tonsils) is generally considered when a person has ongoing or severe problems related to their tonsils. Here are the main reasons and situations when a tonsillectomy might be recommended:
Tonsillectomy is often considered when a person suffers from frequent episodes of tonsillitis, which is the inflammation or infection of the tonsils. Patients experiencing sore throat, fever, swollen tonsils with pus, or positive strep tests repeatedly over the years often benefit from the surgery. Doctors usually suggest tonsil removal if a patient has
7 or more episodes in 1 year,
5 or more episodes per year for 2 years
3 or more episodes per year for 3 years.
Unlike recurrent tonsillitis, chronic tonsillitis doesn’t necessarily involve frequent new infections, but rather a long-lasting inflammation of the tonsils. Symptoms may include an ongoing sore throat, bad breath (halitosis), enlarged tonsils, and the presence of tonsil stones (white, foul-smelling debris). These issues might not respond well to antibiotics and can persist for months. In such cases, a tonsillectomy can provide long-term relief and improve oral health and comfort.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep-Disordered Breathing
In both children and adults, enlarged tonsils can block the airway during sleep, leading to conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. Symptoms include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, restless sleep, daytime fatigue, or behavioural issues such as irritability and difficulty concentrating. In children, this is one of the most common reasons for tonsillectomy. Removing the tonsils can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health by restoring normal breathing patterns during sleep.
Difficulty Swallowing or Speaking
In some individuals, particularly children, overly large tonsils can cause difficulty with swallowing food, especially solid items. In rare cases, they can also interfere with normal speech by affecting the resonance or clarity of voice. If this causes significant discomfort or developmental concerns, surgery may be recommended to improve quality of life and ease of eating.
Peritonsillar Abscess (Quinsy)
A peritonsillar abscess is a serious complication where pus collects around the tonsil due to severe infection. It usually causes intense throat pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes trismus (difficulty opening the mouth). While one abscess may be treated with drainage and antibiotics, patients with repeated abscesses or severe complications may be advised to undergo tonsillectomy to prevent recurrence.
Suspected Tonsil Cancer or Tumor
In rare cases, especially in adults, a tonsillectomy may be needed if there’s a suspicion of a tumor or cancer in one or both tonsils. Signs that raise concern include one tonsil being larger than the other, persistent pain or sore throat on one side, or abnormal appearance of the tonsil tissue. Removing the tonsil allows doctors to biopsy the tissue and make an accurate diagnosis.
Tonsil Stones (Tonsilloliths)
Tonsil stones are small, hardened deposits that form in the crevices of the tonsils. They can cause chronic bad breath, throat irritation, and a feeling of something stuck in the throat. While some people manage them with home remedies or minor procedures, persistent or severe cases that don’t respond to treatment may require tonsillectomy for lasting relief.
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When to Consult the ENT Doctor for Tonsillectomy Surgery?
Consult an ENT doctor for a tonsillectomy evaluation if you or your child experiences frequent or severe throat infections, persistent throat discomfort that doesn’t improve with treatment, difficulty breathing or sleeping well at night, or ongoing issues with eating, swallowing, or speaking.
It is also important to seek a doctor's consultation if there are recurring episodes of throat swelling or if one side of the throat appears unusually enlarged or painful. Constant bad breath or a feeling of something stuck in the throat that doesn't go away may also warrant a visit. An ENT doctor can thoroughly assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and determine whether tonsil removal is necessary or if other treatments might be more appropriate.
How to Prepare for Tonsillectomy Surgery?
Proper preparation helps reduce complications and supports a smoother recovery. Following all medical guidance closely, especially regarding fasting and medications, can ensure a successful tonsillectomy surgery. Before the surgery, the ENT doctor recommends a full medical evaluation to determine if you're fit for the procedure. This usually includes:
Discussion of past illnesses, allergies, current symptoms, and any previous reactions to anaesthesia.
Assessing the general health of the throat.
Blood Tests or Lab Work (if needed)
To check for bleeding disorders, infections, or other health concerns.
Sleep Study (in some cases)
If the surgery is being done due to breathing problems during sleep, a sleep study may be recommended.
Apart from that, here are some pre-surgery tips that can help the patient prepare for the tonsillectomy:
Be sure to inform the doctor of any known allergies to minimise the chance of complications. It is also best to avoid applying makeup, deodorant, or any topical products near the surgical area before the procedure.
It's also strongly recommended to quit smoking and avoid nicotine-based products in advance, as these can delay healing and elevate the risk of surgical complications. Alcohol should be avoided for a designated period as well, based on your doctor’s instructions.
In most cases, fasting for at least 8 hours before surgery is required to help reduce the risk of aspiration during anaesthesia. For individuals with diabetes, keeping blood sugar levels within the target range is especially important.
What Happens During Tonsillectomy Surgery?
Tonsillectomy is usually done under general anaesthesia, which sedates the patient. This means the patient is asleep throughout the surgery, a smooth experience.
An anesthesiologist will administer the anaesthesia through an intravenous (IV) line or by inhalation. Once the patient is asleep, they will be positioned lying flat on their back on the operating table, and the surgeon will tilt the head slightly to access a clear view of the throat.
Subsequently, the surgeon will use special tools to gently open the mouth and expose the tonsils. They will then carefully remove the tonsils from the back of the throat. There are several techniques for removing tonsils, such as:
Scalpel or Dissection: The tonsils are cut away from the surrounding tissue.
Electrocautery: A heated tool that burns the tissue, reducing bleeding while removing the tonsils.
Laser Surgery: In some cases, a laser is used to remove the tonsils with precision and to minimise bleeding.
Coblation: A technique that uses a low-temperature, radiofrequency device to remove tonsil tissue with minimal pain and swelling.
The surgeon may also control bleeding by cauterising (sealing) the blood vessels in the area. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and the type of technique used.
What to Expect After Tonsillectomy Surgery?
After tonsillectomy, the body goes through a recovery phase that typically lasts 1–2 weeks. Here’s what patients can expect after the tonsillectomy surgery:
Immediate After The Surgery (First 24 Hours)
Once the surgery is over, the patient is taken to the recovery room, where the vitals are monitored. It is common to feel groggy or disoriented due to the effects of anaesthesia.
As the anaesthesia wears off, the patient may feel slight discomfort at the surgical site, which is expected. This pain can be moderate to severe during the first day and may worsen in the following days.
The patient is usually recommended to drink fluids slowly to stay hydrated. This is important because dehydration can worsen throat pain and delay healing.
Some people feel nauseous after anaesthesia, but this usually goes away within a few hours.
Pain and Swelling (First Few Days)
Pain typically peaks around 48 to 72 hours after surgery, as the anaesthesia wears off completely. The throat will feel very sore, and the patient may experience discomfort in the ears and jaw due to referred pain.
The throat may become swollen, and the tonsil beds (where the tonsils were removed) will look red and inflamed. This is normal and should gradually improve.
It’s common to have bad breath during recovery. This happens as the body heals and the scabs form in the tonsil area. The bad breath should fade once the scabs fall off.
Diet and Nutrition (First Week)
The patient needs to stick to soft, cool, or liquid foods such as ice cream, yogurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and soups. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate your throat.
Staying hydrated is crucial, but it may be painful to drink large amounts at once. Drink small sips throughout the day. Cold drinks and ice chips can help soothe the throat.
The doctor prescribes pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to manage pain. The doctor may also recommend a stronger painkiller if necessary. Take medications on time to keep pain levels manageable.
Recovery and Healing (Days 7 to 14)
After a few days, scabs will start to form on the tonsil beds where the tonsils were removed. This is a natural part of the healing process. The scabs can be uncomfortable, and patients may notice mild bleeding or a sore throat as they form.
Pain in the ears can continue for a few days due to the referred pain from the tonsil removal. This is a common and temporary side effect.
The patient may feel tired and have low energy during the first week. Rest as much as possible to help the body heal.
After the first week, start to reintroduce solid foods into the diet, but avoid spicy or acidic foods that could irritate the healing throat.
Scab Falling Off (Days 7 to 10)
Between days 7 to 10, the scabs will begin to fall off, which can cause some mild discomfort and a slight sore throat. The patient might notice white patches or spots in the mouth, which is normal.
It's common to experience small amounts of bleeding, especially as the scabs fall off. If the bleeding is minimal and stops on its own, there's no need for concern. However, in case of persistent or heavy bleeding, contact the doctor immediately.
Long-Term Recovery (Weeks 2 to 6)
By the end of the second week, the pain should start to subside. Most people feel significantly better after about 10 to 14 days, although some mild soreness can linger for a few weeks.
Some temporary changes in the voice may occur while the tonsil beds heal, but these will resolve as the patient recovers fully.
It’s important to avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise for a few weeks after the surgery. This includes activities like heavy lifting or running, which could disrupt healing.
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What are the Benefits of Tonsillectomy Surgery?
Tonsillectomy, the surgical removal of the tonsils, is often recommended when tonsils become a source of recurring problems. While it might seem like a small procedure, the benefits can have a big impact on your general health and quality of life. Here are some of the key advantages:
One of the most common reasons for tonsillectomy is frequent or severe throat infections. Removing the tonsils can significantly reduce how often you get sore throats, especially those caused by chronic tonsillitis or strep throat.
Enlarged tonsils can block the airway and lead to snoring or sleep apnea, particularly in children. Tonsillectomy can open up the airway, allowing for better breathing during sleep, which leads to deeper, more restful sleep and improved daytime alertness.
Better Breathing and Swallowing
For people with enlarged tonsils, breathing or swallowing can be uncomfortable or even painful. Removing the tonsils can ease these symptoms, making it easier to eat, speak, and breathe, especially during physical activity or rest.
Reduced Use of Medications
Frequent throat infections often require antibiotics or pain relievers. After a tonsillectomy, most patients experience fewer infections and, as a result, take fewer medications, which is better for long-term health.
Children and adults with recurrent tonsillitis may miss days of school or work. By preventing repeat infections and sick days, a tonsillectomy can lead to improved attendance and productivity.
Relief from Chronic Bad Breath
In some cases, tonsils can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to persistent bad breath (halitosis). A tonsillectomy removes the source of the problem, helping restore fresh breath.
Many people report an overall improvement in how they feel, less pain, better sleep, easier breathing, and fewer illnesses, after recovering from the surgery. For children, it often means better growth, focus, and mood.
Tonsillectomy Surgery Recovery
Recovering from a tonsillectomy takes time, but with proper care, most people heal well within a couple of weeks. Here's what to expect during the recovery period, along with tips to help make it smoother and more comfortable:
Throat pain and discomfort will be most intense during the first 2–3 days. It's common to feel pain in the ears, jaw, or neck due to referred pain.
Pain may increase slightly as scabs form on the tonsil beds, which is normal.
Scabs start to fall off. Some mild bleeding may occur during this time.
Most patients begin to feel significantly better and can return to normal activities, though complete healing may take up to 3 weeks.
Pain Management
Take prescribed or recommended pain relievers exactly as directed.
Avoid aspirin unless your doctor says otherwise, as it can increase bleeding risk.
Ice packs around the neck and cold fluids can help soothe throat pain.
Diet Tips
Stick to soft, cool foods like ice cream, yoghurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and soups.
Avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods that can irritate the throat.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, even if swallowing is uncomfortable. Small sips throughout the day are better than large gulps.
Activity Level
Rest is essential in the first few days.
Avoid strenuous physical activity, sports, or heavy lifting for at least 2 weeks.
Children should stay home from school for about 7–10 days, or until they feel comfortable.
Voice and Breathing Changes
Temporary changes in voice or nasal tone can occur, but usually return to normal as healing progresses.Breathing often improves, especially in those who had enlarged tonsils causing obstruction.
Are there any Complications of Tonsillectomy Surgery?
While tonsillectomy is a safe procedure, there may be slight chances of complications depending on the patient’s medical condition, the technique used, the surgical expertise of the surgeon, etc. Potential tonsillectomy complications include:
Bleeding (primary or delayed)
Infection
Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
Temporary voice changes
Dehydration
Rare but serious bleeding requiring readmission
Discussing these tonsillectomy side effects with your surgeon helps set realistic expectations and prepares you for a smooth recovery.
Artemis Hospitals Offer Advanced Tonsillectomy Surgery by Top ENT Surgeons in Gurgaon
Artemis Hospitals is nationally and internationally known for providing good, affordable and reliable treatment for different medical conditions associated with the ear, nose and throat. Our team of experienced ENT doctors are highly experienced in performing advanced tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, eardrum repair procedure, and other medical procedures associated with ear, nose and throat.
The department of ENT at Artemis is an all-inclusive, comprehensive unit with a list of diagnostic and therapeutic options under the same roof. A set of detailed tests and evaluations undertaken by a team of proficient ENT Surgeons and Audiologists determines the further course of action.
Artemis Hospitals aim to provide excellent state-of-the-art patient care in a supportive environment and conduct educational programs that provide excellent training in research and clinical care.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is tonsillectomy surgery painful?
You will be under anaesthesia during the procedure, which makes the surgery painless. However, there may be some pain after the surgery, as the effect of anaesthesia wears off. However, the doctor may provide you with medications after the surgery to relieve pain.
How long is the recovery time?
Most people recover in about 10–14 days, though some may take longer depending on age and the general health of the patient.
Can I eat normally after surgery?
You can start with soft, cool foods and gradually return to a normal diet as the throat heals.
Is tonsillectomy only for kids?
No. Adults also undergo tonsillectomy for chronic infections, breathing problems, or tonsil stones.
Are there any long-term side effects?
Long-term tonsillectomy side effects are rare, depending on the surgery type, the doctor’s expertise, etc. Most people experience improved health after recovery.
Will my immune system be weaker after surgery?
No. The tonsils are part of the immune system, but their removal doesn’t significantly impact overall immunity.
How soon can I return to work or school?
Plan for at least 7–10 days off to allow for proper rest and healing. However, consult the ENT specialist before resuming daily work and going back to the normal routine to avoid any complications.
What factors affect the cost of tonsillectomy surgery in Gurgaon?
Tonsillectomy cost usually varies depending on the type of technique used, the surgeon’s fee, hospital stay (if required), cost of diagnostic tests, and miscellaneous charges. To get an estimate on tonsillectomy surgery cost, call us to learn more.
Whom should I consult for tonsils removal surgery in Gurgaon?
Get in touch with an ENT surgeon for tonsillectomy in Gurgaon for inflamed or infected tonsils. Artemis hospitals has a team of experienced ENT surgeons and specialists who leverage advanced medical technology to ensure a high success rate
Which is the best ENT hospital near me for tonsillectomy surgery in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals has a team of some of the best ENT specialists in Gurgaon with more than 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the ears, nose and throat. Contact us to book an appointment with top ENT doctors near you in Gurgaon.
Is tonsillectomy covered by insurance?
Tonsillectomy isa medical procedure to remove inflamed tonsils. If deemed a medical necessity, insurance companies cover the tonsillectomy cost depending on their terms and conditions. To know more, contact us to book an appointment with some of the best ENT specialists in Gurgaon and get a cost estimate for tonsillectomy surgery.
