Tonsillectomy: Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Outcomes

What Is a Tonsillectomy?

Surgical removal of the palatine tonsils, typically for recurrent/chronic tonsillitis (≥7 episodes/year, ≥5/year for 2 years, ≥3/year for 3 years), peritonsillar abscess, obstructive sleep apnea, or malignancy suspicion.

Surgical Techniques

• Cold steel (dissection) – traditional, low cost
• Electrocautery (monopolar/bipolar) – faster, more hemostasis
• Coblation (controlled ablation) – lower thermal damage, possibly less pain
• Microdebrider, laser, harmonic scalpel – other options

Recovery

• Children: 7–10 days typical.
• Adults: 10–14+ days; often more painful.
• Diet: Soft, cool foods; avoid acidic, spicy, crunchy items.
• Hydration critical to prevent dehydration and bleeding.
• Pain control: Acetaminophen ± ibuprofen; opioids cautiously if needed.

Complications

• Bleeding: Primary (intraoperative/immediate) or secondary (days 5–10, eschar sloughing). Rate 2–5%.
• Infection (rare), velopharyngeal insufficiency (rare), taste changes, dental injury.

Outcomes

Highly effective for recurrent tonsillitis and pediatric OSA. Most patients experience significant reduction in throat infections and improved quality of life.