Tonsillectomy – Adult

A tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils. It remains a very common procedure in children as well as adults. In our practice, we do as many children as adults.

This procedure completely eliminates problems with the tonsils including recurrent and chronic sore throats, mouth breathing and snoring, mild sleep apnea, tonsil stones, and chronic bad breath.

Surgery takes approximately 30 minutes, with most patients ready to leave 2 ½ to 3 hours after arrival. Discomfort varies widely, but averages 5/10 on a pain scale for one week. Pain sometimes worsens toward the end of the first week before it resolves. Children usually experience less discomfort than adults.

After Surgery

Reduce activity for one full week.

Out of town patients are cleared for travel the next day. No follow-up is necessary.

For more information about our ENT procedures, contact Northwest ENT Surgery Center and Pediatric and Adult Surgery Center at (770) 282-9149.