What happens during a tonsillectomy?

You may have heard of a tonsillectomy procedure, but do you really understand how the procedure is performed? Dr. Payam Daneshrad of Daneshrad Clinic in Santa Monica and Torrance, California is here to educate you on the surgical and recovery aspects of the tonsillectomy procedure.

What is a tonsillectomy?

Dr. Payam Daneshrad describes the tonsillectomy as a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils. The tonsils are two small, round lymph nodes located right in the back of the throat. They help to filter out bacteria and other foreign particles that enter the body through the nose and mouth.

What happens during a tonsillectomy?

During a tonsillectomy, the surgeon will make an incision in the side of the throat and carefully remove the tonsils. In some cases, the adenoids (another type of lymph node) may also be removed. The surgery usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete, and people typically stay in the hospital for one or two nights afterwards. A tonsillectomy is a very common procedure and is performed on thousands of patients each year in the United States.

What to expect from the recovery

Recovery from a tonsillectomy can take a few weeks. During this time, it is important to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Pain and swelling in the throat are common after surgery, and pain medication may be prescribed to help manage these symptoms. It is also common to have a sore throat and trouble swallowing for a week or two after the surgery.

Possible risks and complications

Most people make a full recovery within a few weeks and experience no long-term complications from the procedure. However, as with any surgery, there are some risks associated with a tonsillectomy. These include bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia.

Learn more about the tonsillectomy procedure

Dr. Payam Daneshrad and his team at Daneshrad Clinic work with patients in and around the areas of Santa Monica and Torrance, California to help them in determining the best treatment for their unique needs. If you have been told that you could benefit from a tonsillectomy, call our team to discuss this procedure. Our board-certified otolaryngologist can provide effective treatment for you or a loved one in need of a tonsillectomy.