Removal of frequently inflamed tonsils will eliminate many problems, especially recurring upper respiratory tract infections.

What is Tonsillectomy?

The lymphoid tissues, which we commonly know as tonsils, are referred to as tonsils in medical terminology. Tonsils are one of the immune system organs in our body. From childhood on, they start producing antibodies to fight microbes that enter the human body through the respiratory tract. From the moment this organ, which is tasked with producing antibodies, loses its function, it ceases to function and becomes harmful to the human body. When the tonsils reach this point, they may need to be removed with tonsillectomy after treatment methods. The operation to remove the tonsils, or tonsils, is called Tonsillectomy.

What is Tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is the name given to inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsils swell and cause pain when they encounter microbes. In the event of this inflammation, antibiotic treatment is applied. When this inflammation and swelling condition recurs frequently, it becomes chronic. Chronic tonsillitis prevents the tonsils from performing their function and causes more harm than good.

In addition to triggering upper respiratory tract infections, chronic tonsillitis can also negatively affect organs such as heart valves, joints, and kidneys in the long term. Inflammation and enlargement of the tonsils can cause disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea.

In Which Cases Is Tonsillectomy Performed?

Some of the situations that require a decision to undergo tonsillectomy include frequent tonsillitis, fever, developmental delays observed in children, and failure to gain weight.

What Happens If Tonsillectomy Is Not Performed?

In patients requiring tonsillectomy, fluid accumulation in the ear, cysts in the tonsils, sleep apnea, and tonsil bleeding are observed. Frequently recurring tonsillitis will have other negative effects such as continuous antibiotic use and disruption of daily life due to the constant illness.

Tonsil surgery is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the world. There is a common and false belief among the public that removing tonsils will negatively affect the body’s immune system. Contrary to this belief, tonsils, which exist to protect the body against microbes, are now abusing their duty and causing diseases, and at this point, removing them will be beneficial to the body.

How is Tonsillectomy Performed?

Tonsilectomy is a surgery performed under general anesthesia. Tonsilectomy is performed in adults as well as in children. The tonsils are removed by stripping them from where they are attached. The surgery takes about an hour. Since the tonsils are removed from inside the mouth, no external intervention is made superficially, so there is no external incision or stitching. After the surgery, the patient is discharged after staying one night. After tonsillectomy, mild pain and fever may be experienced.

How Long Does Tonsillectomy Take?

Tonsilectomy surgery is an operation that takes about an hour.

How Many Days Does Tonsilectomy Heal?

After tonsillectomy, a white tissue forms on the tonsils indicating healing. The white tissue appearance that lasts 15-20 days should not be confused with inflammation. The healing period is approximately 10 days. If unexpected conditions such as pain and bleeding persist after 10 days, it is very important to share them with your doctor.

What to Eat After Tonsilectomy?

After tonsillectomy, it is recommended to eat cold and soft foods as deemed appropriate by the doctor. Drinking plenty of fluids is also an important part of the diet plan.

At What Age Is Tonsillectomy Performed?

Tonsillectomy surgery can be performed from the age of 3.

Is Tonsillectomy Risky?

Tonsilectomy is a very common operation and the risk rate is quite low. Since it is an operation performed under general anesthesia, it should be performed by specialist physicians in reliable health institutions, considering the risks that occur in every operation.

Does Tonsilectomy Damage the Vocal Cords?

Tonsilectomy is an operation that does not damage the vocal cords. Although the hoarseness of the voice due to the gap created in the mouth by the removal of the tonsils seems like a problem after the surgery, this hoarseness will not be permanent, and the voice will return to its previous state with recovery in a few weeks.