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Tonsillectomy

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 23, 2024.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove your tonsils. The tonsils are 2 large lumps of tissue in the back of your throat. An adenoidectomy is surgery to remove your adenoids. Adenoids are small lumps of tissue on the top of your throat. Tonsils and adenoids fight infection. Sometimes only your tonsils are removed. Your adenoids may be taken out at the same time if they are large or infected.

Picture of a normal mouth

INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

Bleeding:

Some people have bleeding after a tonsillectomy. Usually it happens 4 to 8 days after surgery, but it can occur any time up until about 3 weeks after your surgery.

Food and drink:

It is important that you drink enough liquids . Do this to improve your healing, reduce the risk of bleeding, and prevent fluid loss.

Self care:

Follow up with your surgeon in 1 to 2 days or as directed:

Write down any questions you have so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Contact your surgeon or primary healthcare provider if:

Return to the emergency department if:

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.