Tonsillectomy in Joliet, New Lenox and Morris, IL
A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils, which are two small glands located at the back of the throat. Tonsils are part of the immune system and help the body recognize infections, particularly in early childhood.
In certain cases, though, the tonsils can become more harmful than helpful. When tonsils are frequently infected, chronically inflamed, or enlarged enough to block the airway, removing them could improve overall health and quality of life.
Reasons for a Tonsillectomy
A tonsillectomy might be recommended for several medical reasons, including:
- Recurrent tonsillitis, often defined as multiple infections per year over consecutive years
- Chronic tonsillitis that does not fully resolve with medication
- Enlarged tonsils (tonsillar hypertrophy) causing airway obstruction
- Sleep-disordered breathing or obstructive sleep apnea
- Peritonsillar abscess, a complication of tonsillitis
- Suspicion of cancer, which is rare and typically applies to adults
Your provider will recommend surgery only when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.
Symptoms That Might Lead to a Tonsillectomy
Patients who benefit from tonsillectomy often experience ongoing or severe symptoms such as:
- Frequent or severe sore throats
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of throat blockage
- Loud snoring or disturbed sleep
- Breathing pauses during sleep
- Chronic bad breath related to tonsillitis
- Repeated infections despite appropriate medical treatment
Evaluation and Diagnosis Before Tonsillectomy
The decision to perform a tonsillectomy is based on a thorough evaluation that may include:
- A detailed medical history and throat examination
- Review of infection frequency and severity
- Assessment of how symptoms affect sleep, school, or work
- Sleep studies when sleep apnea or breathing issues are suspected
Your provider will discuss whether surgery is appropriate based on your specific situation.
Treatment Options Before Surgery
Before recommending tonsillectomy, doctors often try non-surgical approaches such as:
- Antibiotics or other medications to treat infections
- Steroids to reduce inflammation when appropriate
- Watchful waiting in mild or improving cases
- Medical management of sleep-disordered breathing in children
Surgery is typically recommended when symptoms persist or significantly impact daily life despite these measures.
How the Tonsillectomy Procedure Works
A tonsillectomy is performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient is asleep and pain-free during the procedure. Several surgical techniques may be used, including cold instruments, electrocautery, or other energy-based methods. Your surgeon will choose the technique best suited to your needs.
The procedure itself usually takes less than an hour, and most patients go home the same day.
Benefits of Tonsillectomy
For appropriately selected patients, tonsillectomy can offer meaningful benefits, including:
- Fewer throat infections
- Improved breathing and sleep quality
- Reduced snoring or sleep apnea symptoms
- Better overall quality of life
- Fewer missed school or work days
Risks and Possible Complications
As with any surgery, tonsillectomy carries some risks. These may include:
- Throat pain during recovery
- Bleeding, which can occur immediately or several days after surgery
- Dehydration due to discomfort with swallowing
- Infection (uncommon)
- Reactions to anesthesia
Your care team will review these risks in detail and provide guidance on how to minimize them.
Tonsillectomy Recovery Process
Recovery time varies by age:
- Children often recover within 7–10 days
- Adults may require up to two weeks or longer
During recovery, the throat may appear white or scabbed as it heals. Pain is expected and typically peaks several days after surgery before gradually improving. Scabs usually fall off on their own as healing progresses.
Home Care After Tonsillectomy
After a tonsillectomy, patients are typically advised to:
- Use pain medication as directed
- Stay well hydrated, even if swallowing is uncomfortable
- Eat soft, cool foods and avoid sharp or spicy foods
- Limit strenuous activity during the initial recovery period
- Sleep with the head elevated if helpful
Your provider will give specific instructions tailored to your needs.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you notice:
- Bleeding from the mouth or nose
- Signs of dehydration, such as very low urine output
- Fever that does not improve
- Persistent vomiting or severe pain
FAQs About Tonsillectomy
Is a tonsillectomy painful?
A tonsillectomy does cause throat pain during recovery, but discomfort is expected and can usually be managed with medication and supportive care.
How long does tonsillectomy recovery take?
Tonsillectomy recovery typically takes about one to two weeks, with children often healing faster than adults.
Can adults have a tonsillectomy?
Yes, adults can undergo tonsillectomy, especially for chronic infections or sleep-related breathing problems.
How effective is tonsillectomy?
For patients with appropriate indications, tonsillectomy is highly effective at reducing infections and improving sleep and quality of life.
When can I return to work or school after a tonsillectomy?
Most children return to school after about 10 days, while adults may need up to two weeks, depending on recovery.